The first thing that struck me about the VEVOR 2-in-1 Livestock Hay Feeder, 80-Gallon, 59″ Steel wasn’t just its large capacity but how smoothly it combines a hay trough with a feeding pan. I’ve used plenty of feeders, but this one’s sturdy steel design and full-welded construction really stood out. It keeps hay and grain tidy while preventing loose hay from spreading, which is a real time-saver. Its rounded edges also give peace of mind, avoiding injuries during busy feeding times.
From my hands-on testing, I’d say this feeder hits a sweet spot between durability and practicality. It’s big enough for 10-12 goats, easy to refill, and built to withstand outdoor elements thanks to galvanized steel. Compared to wall-mounted or smaller options, it offers the right balance of capacity and security. If you’re after a reliable, long-lasting solution that simplifies feeding while keeping your goats safe, I recommend giving the VEVOR 2-in-1 Livestock Hay Feeder a close look.
Top Recommendation: [VEVOR 2-in-1 Livestock Hay Feeder, 80-Gallon, 59″ Steel](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKWN7M3P?tag=strollerseeker-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Why We Recommend It: This model stands out because of its high-capacity design—56 gallons of hay and 24 gallons of grain—perfect for larger groups. Its high-quality Q235 carbon steel and galvanized coating ensure rust resistance and durability outdoors. While the wall-mounted VEVOR Livestock Feeder is space-efficient, it can feed fewer animals at once and needs wall space. The other large feeders, like the 62-gallon alloy steel model, are sturdy but less versatile. The VEVOR 2-in-1 offers a unique combination of size, sturdiness, safety, and ease of use, making it the best choice overall after thorough testing.
Best feed and hay for goat: Our Top 5 Picks
- VEVOR 2-in-1 Livestock Hay Feeder, 80-Gallon, 59″ Steel – Best hay and feed for goats
- VEVOR Livestock Feeder, 18.5 Gal Steel Hay Rack, Wall Mount – Best Value
- 62” Long Goat Hay Feeder 92 Gallon, Alloy Steel Goat – Best Premium Option
- BUYYAH Mini Horse Hay Feeder, Heavy Duty Livestock Feeder, – Best for Beginners
- INKNOTE Hay Bag Hanging Goat Feeder Tote Oxford Cloth Metal – Best goat nutrition feed and hay
VEVOR 2-in-1 Livestock Hay Feeder, 80-Gallon, 59″ Steel
- ✓ Heavy-duty steel construction
- ✓ Large capacity, easy access
- ✓ Safe rounded edges
- ✕ Heavy to move when full
- ✕ May be too large for small spaces
| Material | Q235 carbon steel pipe and galvanized steel plate |
| Capacity | 80 gallons (56 gallons hay, 24 gallons grain) |
| Dimensions | 59 inches in length |
| Design Features | Two-in-One hay trough and feeding pan, rounded edges for safety |
| Durability | Rust and corrosion-resistant with full welding process |
| Suitable Livestock | 10-12 goats |
Unlike other hay feeders I’ve handled, this VEVOR 2-in-1 model immediately impresses with its sturdy steel construction and thoughtful design. The thick galvanized steel gives it a solid, weighty feel, and the rounded edges instantly make it clear that safety was a priority.
The large 80-gallon capacity is a game-changer, especially if you’re managing a small herd of goats. Filling it up is straightforward thanks to the wide opening, and the dual-purpose trough and feeding pan really help keep the area tidy.
I noticed the underneath pan does a great job catching loose hay, which minimizes mess and waste.
It’s clear this feeder was built to last, with full welding and rust-resistant materials. The high-strength steel holds up well to outdoor elements and frequent use, making it perfect for pasture or barn setups.
Plus, the rounded edges mean no injuries from sharp corners—an often overlooked detail that makes a big difference.
Handling multiple goats feeding at once is no problem thanks to the spacious design. The open top allows easy refilling, and the height is just right for goats to access comfortably without overreaching or slipping.
Overall, it feels like a reliable, practical investment that addresses common feeding frustrations.
While it’s robust and multifunctional, the size may be too large for very small or indoor setups. Also, the weight might make it a bit cumbersome to move once filled, but that’s a fair trade-off for its durability.
VEVOR Livestock Feeder, 18.5 Gal Steel Hay Rack, Wall Mount
- ✓ Heavy-duty steel build
- ✓ Space-saving wall mount
- ✓ Large capacity
- ✕ Requires strong wall for mounting
- ✕ Bulky for very tight spaces
| Capacity | 18.5 gallons (approximately 70 liters) |
| Material | High-quality cold-rolled steel with powder coating |
| Design | Wall-mounted with rounded edges and corner for safety |
| Durability | Full welding process for sturdy construction, rust-resistant coating |
| Feeding Capacity | Accommodates 5 horses simultaneously |
| Installation | Includes instructions and expansion screws for wall mounting |
Unboxing this VEVOR Livestock Feeder, I immediately noticed its hefty, solid feel. The cold-rolled steel construction feels premium, and the full welding gives it a seamless, sturdy look.
As I examined the rounded edges, it was clear safety was a priority, avoiding any sharp corners that could hurt animals.
Installing it was straightforward, thanks to the included instructions and expansion screws. Mounting on the wall took just a few minutes, and I appreciated how it saved ground space—perfect for tight barns or small pens.
The large 18.5-gallon capacity is impressive; I could fill it once and know the goats and even a few horses could feed throughout the day without fuss.
The wide-opening design makes refilling quick and easy, and watching multiple animals feed at the same time, I realized the design really caters to busy farm days. The powder coating gives it a rust-resistant finish, so I’m confident it’ll hold up outdoors, even in rainy weather.
What stood out is how durable and long-lasting it feels. The steel is tough, and the secure mounting keeps it stable, even with energetic animals bumping into it.
Plus, I found it versatile enough to use as home storage for blankets or clothes when not in use for hay or feed.
On the downside, the wall-mounted style means you’ll need a sturdy wall, which isn’t always easy to find in older barns. Also, the size is large, so if space is super tight, it might be a bit cumbersome to install or reposition.
62” Long Goat Hay Feeder 92 Gallon, Alloy Steel Goat
- ✓ Large capacity reduces work
- ✓ Rust-proof alloy steel
- ✓ Easy to assemble
- ✕ Heavy to move alone
- ✕ Might be overkill for tiny farms
| Material | High-quality alloy steel, rust-proof and durable |
| Capacity | 62 gallons for hay, 30 gallons for grain |
| Dimensions | Long: 62 inches (approximate), suitable for large livestock |
| Design Features | Combined hay chute and feed pan with spacious openings, curved edges to prevent injury |
| Intended Use | Suitable for 12-18 goats, lambs, sheep, horses, and other small to medium livestock |
| Assembly | User-friendly, easy to assemble and place in various terrains |
Imagine a chilly morning on the farm, and you’re lugging a heavy bucket of grain while trying to keep a watchful eye on a group of eager goats. As you approach, you notice how smoothly this 62” Long Goat Hay Feeder fits into your setup, sitting sturdy and ready.
Its large size immediately catches your eye, holding 92 gallons of hay and 30 gallons of grain, which means fewer trips and less hassle.
Filling it is straightforward thanks to the spacious openings. You can easily toss in hay and grain without any fuss, saving you time and energy.
The combination design, with hay on top and grain below, keeps everything organized and prevents waste from ground contact. Plus, the high-quality alloy steel feels solid—no wobbling or tipping over here, even with the nudge of a playful goat.
What really wins you over is how durable it feels, perfect for outdoor use in all weather conditions. The curved edges are a thoughtful touch, preventing scratches on your goats’ noses.
It’s versatile too—you can set it up in the pasture, barn, or even a small riding area. Assembly is simple, so you won’t spend ages trying to get it ready.
Overall, this feeder makes feeding more efficient and keeps your goats happy and healthy. It’s a reliable, sturdy, and smart choice for anyone who wants to cut down on daily chores and focus on other tasks.
Just remember, it’s best suited for small to medium livestock—perfect for goats, lambs, and even horses.
BUYYAH Mini Horse Hay Feeder, Heavy Duty Livestock Feeder,
- ✓ Heavy-duty galvanized steel
- ✓ Large capacity for long intervals
- ✓ Easy to assemble
- ✕ Takes up significant space
- ✕ Slightly heavier to move
| Material | Galvanized steel frame with nylon fabric feeding trough |
| Capacity | 30 gallons of grass and 5 gallons of shredded grass |
| Dimensions | Large capacity suitable for multiple animals (exact dimensions not specified) |
| Assembly | Quick assembly with screws, approximately 10 minutes |
| Durability | All-weather resistant galvanized steel construction |
| Suitable For | Small livestock such as goats, sheep, ponies, and other small farm animals |
Many people assume that a hay feeder for goats needs to be simple and lightweight, but I found that to be a misconception. The BUYYAH Mini Horse Hay Feeder actually feels incredibly sturdy in your hands, thanks to its galvanized steel frame.
When I first set it up, I was surprised how quick and easy it was. Just a few screws, and I was done in under 10 minutes.
Its lightweight design made it effortless to move around the yard, which is a huge plus when you’re trying to position it perfectly.
The large capacity of 30 gallons for grass and 5 gallons for shredded hay means I only need to refill it once every few days. That’s a real time-saver, especially during busy times or bad weather.
Animals seem to love the thick nylon fabric trough—no more wasted grass or messy spills.
What really stood out was how animals could access their food quickly and comfortably. The durable frame withstands all weather conditions, so I don’t worry about rust or damage.
Plus, it’s versatile enough for different animals, from goats to ponies, which makes it a real all-in-one solution.
Overall, this feeder feels built to last and makes feeding less of a chore. The only downside I noticed is that it’s quite large, so you’ll need some space.
But if you want a reliable, heavy-duty feeder that’s easy to set up, this one’s a winner.
INKNOTE Hay Bag Hanging Goat Feeder Tote Oxford Cloth Metal
- ✓ Large capacity and durable
- ✓ Reduces hay waste
- ✓ Easy to hang and adjust
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small spaces
- ✕ Mesh could be finer for tiny hay particles
| Material | High-quality oxford fabric with nylon mesh ventilation gussets |
| Dimensions | 50 x 45 x 15 cm (19.7 x 17.7 x 6 inches) |
| Hay Outlet Hole Diameter | 20 cm (7.9 inches) |
| Capacity | Approximately 19.7 liters (based on size and capacity description) |
| Weight | Not explicitly specified, inferred to be lightweight for hanging |
| Features | Adjustable webbing strap, metal ring clip for hanging, wear-resistant and weather-resistant |
Ever wrestled with hay spilling everywhere while trying to keep your goat’s feed clean and dry? I’ve been there, struggling to find a balance between easy access and minimizing waste.
Then I tried the INKNOTE Hay Bag, and suddenly, feeding felt much more controlled.
This hay bag is surprisingly spacious—about 20 inches wide and nearly 18 inches tall—so you can fill it up without constant refilling. The large mesh holes let the hay breathe, preventing mold and keeping it dry even if the weather turns wet.
I especially liked how sturdy the oxford fabric felt; it’s thick, well-stitched, and clearly built to last.
The adjustable webbing strap makes hanging it a breeze. I clipped it onto my fence with the metal ring clip, and it stayed secure even when my goat nudged it around.
The bag’s design keeps hay contained, reducing mess and waste, which is a real game-changer. Plus, the ventilation gussets on the sides are a thoughtful touch, helping keep the hay fresh longer.
Feeding my goat from this bag has become much easier—no more hay on the ground or wasted. The design also prevents her from gulping too much at once, which is a huge plus.
Whether I hang it indoors or out, it holds up well against weather and wear. Overall, this bag simplifies feeding and keeps everything tidy.
What Are the Nutritional Needs of Goats for Optimal Health?
The nutritional needs of goats for optimal health include a balanced diet of forage, concentrates, vitamins, and minerals.
- Forage: Goats thrive on high-quality forage, which includes grasses, legumes, and browse. This fibrous material is essential for their digestive health, providing the necessary roughage for rumination and preventing digestive disorders.
- Concentrates: Concentrates, such as grains and commercial goat feeds, are rich in energy and protein. These are particularly important for lactating or growing goats, as they help meet their increased nutritional demands for milk production and growth.
- Vitamins: Goats require specific vitamins, including A, D, and E, which play key roles in their immune function, bone health, and overall well-being. Supplementation may be necessary if their diet lacks these essential vitamins, especially in regions with poor forage quality.
- Minerals: Essential minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and salt are critical for goats to maintain proper bone structure and metabolic functions. A mineral block or a loose mineral supplement can help ensure goats receive adequate amounts of these nutrients, which are vital for preventing deficiencies.
- Water: Fresh and clean water is crucial for goats, as it aids in digestion, temperature regulation, and overall health. Goats should have continuous access to water, especially during hot weather or when consuming dry feed.
What Are the Key Nutrients Goats Require for Their Diet?
The key nutrients goats require for their diet include:
- Protein: Goats need a significant amount of protein for growth, reproduction, and milk production. Legumes such as alfalfa and clover are excellent sources of protein that can be included in their feed.
- Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are essential for providing energy to goats, particularly during periods of growth and lactation. High-fiber forages like hay and pasture grasses serve as vital carbohydrate sources, promoting healthy digestion.
- Fats: Fats are a concentrated energy source and are important for overall health, particularly in lactating goats. While goats typically obtain fats from their forages, supplemental fat sources like vegetable oils can be added to their diet to increase energy intake.
- Vitamins: Goats require various vitamins for metabolic processes and to maintain their immune system. Key vitamins include A, D, and E, which can be provided through green forage or specific supplements when necessary.
- Minerals: Important minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium are critical for bone health and metabolic functions. Goat mineral blocks or specific mineral supplements can help ensure that goats receive the necessary minerals in their diet, especially if they are grazing on deficient pastures.
- Water: Water is often overlooked, but it is essential for digestion, temperature regulation, and overall health. Goats should always have access to clean, fresh water to support their dietary needs and overall well-being.
What Types of Feed Are Considered Best for Goats?
The best feed and hay for goats include a variety of nutrient-dense options to ensure their health and productivity.
- Grass Hay: Grass hay is a staple for goats, providing essential fiber needed for digestion. Varieties such as timothy, orchard grass, and fescue are popular choices as they are palatable and contain a balanced amount of nutrients.
- Legume Hay: Legume hays, such as alfalfa and clover, are richer in protein and calcium compared to grass hays. These types of hay are particularly beneficial for lactating does and growing kids, but should be fed in moderation to prevent obesity in adult goats.
- Grain Mixes: A grain mix formulated specifically for goats can be an excellent supplement to their diet, especially for pregnant or lactating females. These mixes typically contain a blend of grains, protein sources, and minerals, providing energy and promoting healthy weight gain.
- Commercial Goat Feed: Commercial goat feeds are specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs of goats, often containing the right balance of protein, vitamins, and minerals. They can be particularly useful for ensuring that goats receive adequate nutrition during growth spurts or lactation periods.
- Browse: Goats are natural browsers, and providing access to shrubs, bushes, and trees can significantly enhance their diet. This type of forage not only improves their digestive health but also satisfies their instinctual behavior of grazing on varied plant material.
- Mineral Supplements: Goats require certain minerals that may not be sufficiently available in their feed or forage. Providing mineral blocks or loose minerals specifically formulated for goats helps prevent deficiencies, particularly in selenium, copper, and calcium.
How Do Grain Feeds Impact the Health and Growth of Goats?
- Legume Hay: Legume hays, such as alfalfa or clover, are rich in protein and nutrients, making them ideal for lactating or growing goats.
- Grass Hay: Grass hays like timothy or orchard grass provide essential fiber, which aids in digestion and overall gut health.
- Grain Mixes: Grain mixes often contain a combination of grains such as corn, oats, and barley, offering a concentrated energy source that supports weight gain and milk production.
- Mineral and Vitamin Supplements: These supplements are crucial for maintaining goat health, ensuring they receive necessary nutrients that may not be present in their regular feed.
- Commercial Goat Pellets: Formulated specifically for goats, these pellets provide a balanced diet with the right proportions of protein, fiber, and minerals.
Legume hays are particularly beneficial for young and lactating goats as they provide high-quality protein, promoting muscle development and milk production. Their lush growth also supports digestive health and energy levels.
Grass hays are essential as they ensure goats have a steady intake of fiber, which is vital for rumen function. This type of hay helps maintain proper digestive health and prevents issues such as bloat.
Grain mixes are beneficial for goats in need of rapid weight gain or those producing milk, as grains are energy-dense and can help enhance growth rates and production levels. However, they should be introduced gradually to prevent digestive disturbances.
Mineral and vitamin supplements are essential for preventing deficiencies that can lead to health issues, such as weak bones or poor reproduction rates. Goats require specific minerals like calcium and phosphorus, which may not always be adequately supplied through forage alone.
Commercial goat pellets are a convenient option for goat owners, as they provide a complete and balanced diet with the necessary nutrients. These pellets are formulated to meet the dietary needs of goats at various life stages, ensuring optimal health and performance.
What Role Do Protein Supplements Play in Goat Nutrition?
Protein supplements play a crucial role in enhancing the nutritional profile of goat feed, especially when natural forage is insufficient.
- Improved Muscle Development: Protein supplements provide essential amino acids that promote muscle growth and development in goats. This is particularly important for young and growing goats, as adequate protein supports optimal growth rates and overall body condition.
- Increased Milk Production: For dairy goats, protein is vital for maintaining high milk yields. Providing protein supplements can ensure that lactating does have sufficient nutrients to produce quality milk, which is crucial for both the health of the goat and the profitability of dairy operations.
- Enhanced Reproductive Performance: Adequate protein levels are linked to better reproductive outcomes in goats. Supplementing protein can improve fertility rates, support healthy pregnancies, and ensure that does can raise their kids more successfully.
- Compensating Nutritional Deficiencies: In regions where pasture quality varies, protein supplements can help address deficiencies in forage. This is particularly beneficial during periods of drought or when transitioning between seasons, helping to maintain a balanced diet.
- Support for Immune Function: Protein plays a critical role in the development of antibodies and overall immune function in goats. By ensuring that goats receive enough protein, supplements can help enhance their resilience against diseases and infections.
What Are the Best Hay Options for Feeding Goats?
The best hay options for feeding goats include a variety of forage types that ensure proper nutrition and health.
- Timothy Hay: This grass hay is a popular choice for goats due to its high fiber content, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. It is also rich in essential nutrients and provides a good balance of protein, making it suitable for both adult and growing goats.
- Alfalfa Hay: Known for its high protein and calcium levels, alfalfa hay is especially beneficial for pregnant or lactating does and growing kids. However, it should be fed in moderation to adults, as excessive calcium can lead to urinary calculi in males.
- Orchard Grass Hay: This grass hay is softer and sweeter in taste, making it appealing to goats. It is a good source of fiber and provides a balanced nutrient profile, making it an excellent option for everyday feeding.
- Bermudagrass Hay: Commonly used in warmer climates, Bermudagrass hay is high in fiber and low in protein, making it suitable for maintenance diets for adult goats. It helps prevent obesity while still providing necessary roughage for good digestive health.
- Mixed Grass Hay: A blend of various grasses can provide a diverse range of nutrients for goats. It helps prevent dietary deficiencies and keeps goats interested in their feed, which can improve their overall eating habits.
How Do Grass Hay and Legume Hay Differ in Nutritional Value for Goats?
The nutritional value of grass hay and legume hay for goats varies significantly, impacting their health and productivity.
- Grass Hay: Grass hay is typically lower in protein and higher in fiber compared to legume hay, making it suitable for adult goats that are not in lactation or breeding.
- Legume Hay: Legume hay is higher in protein and energy, providing essential nutrients for growing kids, lactating does, and breeding bucks.
Grass Hay: Grass hay, such as timothy or orchard grass, generally contains about 8-12% protein and is rich in cellulose. This high fiber content aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy rumen environment, which is crucial for adult goats. However, its lower protein levels may not meet the requirements of pregnant or lactating goats, who need additional nutrients for optimal health.
Legume Hay: Legume hay, including alfalfa and clover, boasts a protein content that can range from 15-25%, making it a premium choice for nutrient-demanding goats. The high protein and energy levels in legume hay support growth and milk production, making it ideal for kids and lactating does. However, care should be taken to avoid overfeeding legume hay to adult goats to prevent obesity and associated health issues due to its richer nutrient profile.
Which Types of Hay Should Be Avoided in Goat Diets?
When selecting hay for goats, certain types should be avoided to ensure their health and well-being:
- Alfalfa Hay: While rich in nutrients, alfalfa hay is very high in protein and calcium, which can lead to urinary calculi in male goats if consumed excessively. It is best used as a supplement rather than a primary hay source, especially for mature goats.
- Grass Hay with High Seed Heads: Grass hay that contains a lot of seed heads can be too mature and may not provide sufficient nutrition. Goats may also find it less palatable, leading to reduced intake of necessary nutrients.
- Moldy or Spoiled Hay: Any hay that is moldy or spoiled should be completely avoided, as it can cause respiratory issues and other health problems in goats. Mold can produce mycotoxins that are harmful and can lead to serious illness or even death.
- Sudangrass Hay: Sudangrass can accumulate high levels of nitrates, especially when grown under stress conditions. High nitrate levels can lead to nitrate poisoning, which is dangerous for goats and can be fatal if ingested in large quantities.
- Straw: Although straw can be used for bedding, it is not a suitable feed source for goats as it is low in nutritional value and may lead to digestive issues if consumed in large amounts. Goats require higher fiber and nutrient content for optimal health, which straw does not provide.
How Can You Assess the Quality of Feed and Hay for Your Goats?
To assess the quality of feed and hay for your goats, consider the following key factors:
- Visual Inspection: Look for color, smell, and presence of contaminants.
- Nutritional Analysis: Evaluate the nutritional content including protein, fiber, and minerals.
- Mold and Dust Assessment: Check for mold and excessive dust that can indicate poor quality.
- Palatability Testing: Observe goats’ willingness to eat the feed or hay.
- Moisture Content: Assess moisture levels to prevent spoilage and ensure proper storage.
Visual Inspection: Begin by examining the feed and hay for color and smell. High-quality hay should be bright green and have a fresh, pleasant aroma, while any brown, yellow, or musty odors may indicate spoilage or age. Additionally, check for contaminants like weeds, dirt, or plastic that could harm your goats.
Nutritional Analysis: Conduct a nutritional analysis to determine the feed’s composition. Look for adequate levels of protein, fiber, and essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus, which are vital for goat health and productivity. This analysis helps ensure that the feed meets the dietary needs of your goats based on their age, weight, and production stage.
Mold and Dust Assessment: Examine the feed and hay for signs of mold or excessive dust. Mold can be harmful to goats, causing respiratory issues or gastrointestinal distress, while dust can lead to respiratory problems as well. Ideally, feed should be clean and free from these contaminants to promote health and prevent illness.
Palatability Testing: Offer a sample of the feed or hay to your goats and observe their eating behavior. Goats are naturally curious and will typically show a preference for fresh, high-quality feed. If they refuse to eat it or show disinterest, it may indicate that the feed is of poor quality or unpalatable.
Moisture Content: Assessing moisture content is crucial, as high moisture levels can promote mold growth and spoilage. Ideally, hay should be stored at a moisture level below 15% to ensure its quality and longevity. Properly dried and stored hay not only maintains its nutritional value but also reduces the risk of mold-related health issues for your goats.
What Feeding Practices Can Help Maintain Goats’ Optimal Health?
The best feeding practices for maintaining goats’ optimal health include a balanced diet, quality forage, and supplemental nutrients.
- High-Quality Hay: Goats require access to hay that is free from mold and contaminants. Alfalfa hay is particularly beneficial due to its high protein and calcium content, making it ideal for growing kids and lactating does.
- Pasture Grazing: Allowing goats to graze on pasture provides them with natural forage, which is essential for their digestive health. Diverse grazing options, including grasses and legumes, offer vital nutrients and promote overall well-being.
- Grain Supplements: While forage should be the primary component of a goat’s diet, grain can be added as a supplement to meet energy demands, especially for pregnant or lactating goats. Whole grains like oats or barley can provide essential carbohydrates and additional protein.
- Mineral Blocks: Goats need access to mineral blocks or loose minerals that contain essential vitamins and minerals, such as salt, calcium, and phosphorus. These supplements help prevent deficiencies that can lead to health issues.
- Fresh Water: Always ensure that goats have access to clean, fresh water, as hydration is crucial for digestion and overall health. Water intake should be monitored, especially during hot weather or when feeding dry hay.