[feederseaters]

One of my young wethers has a terribly scuffy looking coat. He is one of four in the barn and none of the others have the same problem. He has been de-wormed so that shouldn't be the problem. (Worms were my first susupect, but he is on the same de-worming schedule as the others) He is about 4 months old and it looks like he has "cow-licks" all over his body. All the other goat's fur lie flat to their body...but not his. I want to make sure there is no underlying health issue that is causing this. Beyond wanting to find out what is ailing him, I am concerened because his fur is not flat to his body and is sticking up in every direction that he may not be able to insulate himself well during the upcoming winter months. Tonight is the first night of snow here in NH. I have a feeling I will be going out to the barn at about Midnight, "just to check on things". (GDS)

Thanks in advance

 

[feederseaters]

Birch does have access to minerals. None of the boys seem to be interested in them at all. I have checked for external parasites....nothing. I could potentially MAKE him take some minerals by making them more appetizing. I will try to give him some in a treat today.

Also, I don't know if this is related. When the boys would go for hikes with me, Birch was always the one picking up the rear. I think it is just his "comfort zone", but it could have been lethargy. Any thoughts? Could this be another symptom of lack of minerals?

How do I make sure that the Boys are taking their minerals and if so,who is taking them. I have two mineral feeders that are both in common areas. Is the best thing to do is wait for someone to show symptoms of a deficiency?