As with sheep, internal and external parasites and pneumonia are a major health problem with all kinds of goats. Lice can be controlled by spraying after shearing. Coccidiosis is a threat to kids, both before and after weaning, and any kid not growing properly is probably infected. Their hooves may need to be trimmed, depending on the walking conditions, but wear from rocky ground sometimes helps take car of this problem. Working with a veterinarian, a grower should establish a good health care program that includes vaccination for most diseases.
Goats like to go under or through obstacles.
Five wire electric fencing constructed with three hot wires and two grounded wires work well. Existing fences can be used with the addition of a 12-inch outrigger electric wire located about 12 inches above the ground. Other types of small-mesh fencing may be used. Horns caught in the fence or the crotch of a tree become life-threatening, not only because of predators but also because of other goats. While most goats are not aggressive toward humans, they are not always kind to other goats who cannot defend themselves.