Observation Through Physical Examination

Some illnesses and injuries cause readily apparent discomfort, but many don’t. So, if the power of observation is one of the best tools available to the small-scale farmer when caring for animals, what is it you’re trying to observe?

Respiratory rate: Count the number of chest movements made per minute when the animal is at rest. Normal values for goats are 10 – 20 per minute. Young and old goats have slightly higher respiration rates than normal.

Pulse: Place a hand over the heart area, just under the left elbow, and count the heartbeats: alternatively, there is an artery that can be felt on the inside surface of the thigh. Measurements must be taken when the animal is at rest. Normal values for goats are 60 – 80 per minute.

Temperature: The thermometer should be inserted through the anus into the rectum in a slightly upwards direction and held for at least one minute. The normal temperature range for goats is 38.0 – 40.5 degrees Celsius.

Normal temperature range.

Mucous membranes: Observe the lining inside the eyelids and mouth. If it is pale, the animal is anaemic, probably from gastrointestinal parasites or blood parasites. If it is yellow, there is a liver problem.

Rumen contractions: Place the palm of your hand firmly in the depression behind the last rib on the left and leave it for two minutes. Normal contractions can be felt at a rate of 1 – 2 per minute.