Prevent and Treat Coccidiosis

Keep housing dry and clean, use elevated feeders to prevent fecal contamination of feed, and avoid overcrowding — allow at least 15-20 sq ft per adult goat indoors. During high-risk periods (kidding season, weaning at 8-12 weeks), administer a coccidiostat preventatively to kids. Treat active infections promptly with veterinary-prescribed drugs such as toltrazuril (Baycox) or amprolium (Corid).

Why It Works

Coccidiosis is caused by Eimeria protozoa that destroy intestinal lining cells, causing bloody diarrhea, dehydration, and stunted growth in kids under 6 months. Stress events like weaning or transport suppress immunity and trigger outbreaks. Clean, dry environments reduce oocyst buildup, while elevated feeders eliminate the primary fecal-oral transmission route.

Tips

• Watch for watery or bloody diarrhea, weight loss, and rough coat in kids 3-8 weeks old — these are early coccidiosis signs
• Decoccidine or Rumensin in feed can serve as preventive coccidiostats during high-risk windows
• Replace bedding in kid pens at least twice weekly to reduce oocyst accumulation