Keeping Goats Cool in July Heat
Hot summer days can be tough on our goats. Here are some tips to keep them comfortable and safe.
2025-11-17
Have you ever watched your goats panting in the July heat, looking for relief? It can be tough on them, especially when temperatures soar. As a farmer, I’ve learned a few tricks to help keep my goats cool during those sweltering summer days.
First off, shade is essential. Goats are smart enough to seek it out, but it’s up to us to ensure they have enough options. I’ve planted trees around their pasture, and I’ve also built a simple shelter with a roof that gives them a break from the sun. If you don’t have trees, even a tarp stretched over some posts can work wonders.
Next, I make sure they have plenty of fresh, cool water. I check their troughs regularly, especially when it’s hot outside. Sometimes, I even add ice to their water on the hottest days. Goats love to sip cool water, and it helps keep their body temperature down.
Another tip is to be cautious with their feeding schedule. I’ve found that feeding them their heavier meals in the cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late evening, helps a lot. During the heat of the day, I stick to lighter snacks like hay or fresh greens, which are easier on their digestion.
And don’t forget about ventilation! If your goats are in a barn or shed, make sure there’s good airflow. Opening windows or adding fans can make a significant difference in keeping the air moving.
- Provide plenty of shade (trees, shelters, tarps).
- Ensure access to fresh, cool water at all times.
- Adjust feeding times to cooler parts of the day.
- Improve ventilation in barns or sheds.
Remember, goats are resilient creatures, but they still need our help to thrive in the heat. You're not alone in this; we all face the summer challenges together. If you’re looking for more specific advice or local farms and services that can help with goat care, don’t hesitate to reach out. There are wonderful resources nearby just waiting to be explored!