Gear for goats, sheep, cattle, alpacas and miniature pigs

What to look for

• Sheep are vulnerable to copper toxicity, so a sheep mineral usually omits copper, which leaves goats and cattle short. Mixed-species flocks need separate mineral access, for example a low slatted sheep feeder or an elevated stand for cattle. Do not hand goat or cattle minerals to sheep. Source: Oregon State Extension
• Goat and sheep hooves need trimming roughly every 3 to 6 months, more often on soft ground and less on rocky ground. Check for abscess and foot rot at each trim. Source: NC State Extension (Moore County)
• Electric net fence has limits. For sheep and goats it lasts about 5 to 7 years and suits temporary or semi-permanent use, and coyotes can learn to jump it. Perimeter electric wire for coyotes needs at least 5 alternating strands. Source: Ontario OMAFRA
• A 1,100 lb non-lactating cow needs about 9 gallons of water a day at 70 F, and a lactating cow about 20 gallons. Source: eXtension (NRC figures)
• Cattle handling layout matters as much as the chute. The USDA NRCS fact sheet describes a solid-sided sloped working chute, a minimum 15 ft curve radius, non-slip floors, and overhead restrainers plus safety exits. Headgate types (self-catch, stanchion, guillotine) trade ease for bruising or choking risk. Source: USDA NRCS Grazing Manual fact sheet
• For calf housing, UMass Extension advises hutches about 2 ft apart, dry straw or shavings, a well-drained base and a south-facing position. Avoid cold concrete, rubber mats and slatted floors. Calves typically outgrow hutches around 8 weeks. Source: UMass Extension
• For llamas and alpacas, never keep one alone. A halter nosepiece must allow chewing but not slide onto the soft nasal cartilage, because camelids breathe through the nose. Shear yearly in hot climates, avoid barbed wire, and never leave animals unattended in a chute. Source: Camelid Community Standards of Care Working Group (hosted by Ohio State)
• Indoor miniature pigs need hoof trimming at least yearly, usually under sedation. Tusks (canine teeth) are first trimmed around age 1, then yearly. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual, pet owner version