Can Goats Eat Rosemary? 4 Great Benefits

When it comes to goats, many old wives’ tales and myths are floating around. One of the most common questions we get is whether or not goats can eat rosemary.

Can goats eat rosemary? People always seem surprised when we tell them that goats can eat rosemary! Rosemary is a very healthy treat for goats. Not only does it taste good, but rosemary also has a lot of health benefits for goats.

This article will go over some of the benefits of feeding rosemary to goats and how to incorporate rosemary into your goat’s diet. Keep reading to learn more about why you should be feeding your goats’ rosemary.

can goats eat rosemary

What is rosemary?

Rosemary is a member of the mint family, and it is related to other herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme. Rosemary is native to the Mediterranean region, but it is grown all over the world these days.

Rosemary is a perennial plant, which means that it will come back year after year once it is established. Rosemary plants can grow quite large, up to six feet tall in some cases.

goat dewormer

Are you struggling with worms in your herd?

Then you need the most effective treatment. My goats have been using it for years, and they never get worms anymore! Check out SafeGuard dewormer on Amazon now.

The benefits of rosemary for goats

fresh rosemary

Rosemary is often used as a decoration or as a culinary herb. But did you know that rosemary also has a lot of health benefits?

Helps with digestion

For goats, rosemary can help digestion and act as an appetite stimulant.

If your goat has trouble with its appetite, try feeding it some rosemary. The herb can also help to settle an upset stomach.

A source of important nutrients

Rosemary is a good source of several important nutrients, including calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium.

These nutrients are essential for bone health and can also help prevent certain diseases.

Rich in antioxidants

Rosemary is also rich in antioxidants, which can help to protect goats from diseases.

Antioxidants can also help to improve the health of a goat’s coat.

Soothe muscles

Rosemary can also help to relieve muscle pain and stiffness.

If your goat is suffering from arthritis or another condition that causes muscle pain, rosemary can help to soothe the pain.

Things to watch out for when feeding rosemary to goats

While rosemary is generally safe for goats, there are a few things you should keep in mind when feeding this herb to your goat.

Moderation

First of all, you should only feed rosemary to goats in moderation. Goats can eat large quantities of fresh rosemary without problems, but they should not overeat the herb.

If you are feeding your goats dried rosemary, give them a smaller quantity, as the herb is more concentrated in this form.

Allergies

Some goats may be allergic to rosemary. If you notice your goat has any adverse reactions after eating rosemary, stop feeding the herb to your goat and consult a veterinarian.

Reactions to rosemary can include difficulty breathing, swelling, and hives.

Pesticides

If you are growing your own rosemary, use organic methods. Rosemary plants can absorb pesticides and other chemicals from the soil, so it is vital to use organic methods if you want to avoid these substances.

If you are buying rosemary from the store, make sure to buy organic rosemary to avoid pesticides.

How often should goats eat rosemary?

goat eating plant

Goats are creatures of habitual grazing behavior. They naturally prefer to eat small meals throughout the day rather than one large meal. Therefore, when it comes to feeding goats rosemary, it is best to give them access to the herb frequently throughout the day.

This will allow them to graze on the rosemary as they please and get the full benefits of the herb. Rosemary is rich in nutrients and antioxidants, which can help improve goat health in several ways.

Therefore, by providing goats with frequent access to rosemary, you can help ensure they get the full nutritional benefits of this important herb.

How to feed your goats rosemary

Rosemary is best given to goats fresh, but you can also use dried rosemary. If you give your goats fresh rosemary, pluck a few sprigs from the plant and let your goats munch away.

If you give your goats dried rosemary, crush the leaves into smaller pieces so that your goats can easily eat them. You can add dried rosemary to your goat’s food or hay or give it to them as a treat. Either way, your goats are sure to love it.

Can baby goats eat rosemary?

goats eating

While baby goats are adorable, it’s important to remember that they are still goats and have particular dietary needs. One common question that people ask is whether or not baby goats can eat rosemary. The answer is yes, but only in moderation.

Rosemary is a type of herb that is safe for goats to eat and can offer some health benefits. For example, rosemary can help to improve digestion and boost the immune system. However, you should only give rosemary to baby goats in small amounts. If fed too much, rosemary can cause stomach upset and nausea.

So, if you’re thinking of giving your baby goat some rosemary, make sure to do so in moderation.

What other herbs can goats eat?

In addition to rosemary, goats can enjoy many other herbs. Mint, for example, is a refreshing and tasty treat that can help goats to stay cool in summer.

Lavender is another popular choice, as its calming scent helps to relax goats. Other options include oregano, thyme, and sage. All these herbs are safe for goats to eat and can provide a delicious way to get their daily dose of greens.

So, the next time you’re looking for a way to mix up your goat’s diet, consider adding some fresh herbs to their hay or grain. You may be surprised at how much they enjoy it.

How to give goats a healthy and balanced diet

While goats are generally hardy animals, they still require a balanced and nutritious diet to stay healthy. One way to ensure that your goats are getting all the nutrients they need is to feed them various foods.

Hay, for example, is an excellent source of fiber and roughage, while fresh vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. Goat pellets or grain can also be fed but should be given in moderation as they are high in protein and can cause digestive problems if overfed.

In addition to providing a varied diet, it is also essential to ensure that your goats have access to clean water at all times. By following these simple guidelines, you can help to keep your goats healthy and happy.

Can goats eat rosemary – final thoughts

So there you have it! Now you know that goats can eat rosemary without any problems. Feeding your goats rosemary has a lot of benefits.

So next time you’re out in the garden harvesting some herbs, make sure to leave a few sprigs behind for your furry friends. They’ll be sure to appreciate it.

Related Articles:

Jill Taylor Happy Farmyard

Jill Taylor

Jill is a full-time homesteader who enjoys learning about sustainable living and practicing self-reliance. She'll most likely be found tending to her many animals including chickens, ducks, goats, and alpacas. You find out more about her on LinkedIn.