Listeriosis, also called Circling Disease and Silage sickness, is a life-threatening disease caused by bacteria Listeria monocytogenes and Listeria
ivanovii. Listeria is zoonotic and can be transferred to humans. It thrives in aerobic conditions and can withstand temperatures from 34-113 degrees F. It persists almost anywhere, including soil, manure piles, gastrointestinal tracts, the top layer of silage, and moldy hay or feed. It is also commonly found in the feces of infected birds, animals, fish, and insects as well as sewage.

Without a suitable outlet for a caprine’s rambunctious nature, playfulness can translate into destructiveness for infrastructure and fencing. For this reason, goat playgrounds are highly recommended.

Knowing goat labor signs also alerts you to be available in case the doe should need your help. Unfortunately, not all pregnant goats show signs that kidding is imminent.

STOP and call the vet if: the kid is really stuck, if you note bleeding (bright red blood), any prolapsing of the uterus, if a kid has died some days previous and has become necrotic, or any signs that the doe is in extreme distress.

If you must know whether your goats are pregnant, you can spend money on blood tests, X-rays, or ultrasounds. But all pregnant goats show some visible signs.

Culturing dairy products produces the perfect environment for both beneficial and harmful bacteria to thrive, so hygiene is critical during all steps of production. Practice food safety for listeria prevention and other contamination in all stages from the goat to the affinage.