Goat Feeders: Top 9 Feeders Reviewed

Choosing the best goat feeder can be tricky if you don’t know what to consider. For instance, locally made feeders can spill or waste hay, which is not ideal for farmers and can be a headache for beginners.

Other options include feeding your herd manually or constructing custom feeders. However, these methods are not cost-effective and are time-consuming. Additionally, if you have a large pack, you will have to employ more workers, which can take a toll financially.

So what should we do? Using a goat feeder is an ideal way to minimize your expense and hay wastage. Since goat feeders have different variations, you can pick the right one for the job.

This article will run you through ten of the best goat feeders that you can buy in 2021. We have also provided a detailed buyer’s guide, which consists of what you need to consider before purchasing a goat feeder.

So without further ado, let’s get started.

What are goat feeders?

Goat feeders are an excellent way of minimizing wastage and loss. Since a commercial goat farm spends 70% only on feeds, it becomes crucial to reduce feed wastage.

A goat feeder helps you avoid wastage and increases your farm’s productivity.

Why are goat feeders necessary?

Most commercial farms don’t allow goats to go out for grazing, which means you will have to install the feeding equipment within the compound. Here are some of the advantages of using goat feeders.

• It minimizes feed wastage
• It is a cost-effective feeding method
• Since it stays above the ground, your feed will not be contaminated by protozoa and bacteria
• It ensures good health for your herd
• It promotes your farm’s productivity

Best Goat Feeders – Buyer’s Guide

Goat feeders can increase your farm’s productivity and minimize wastage. However, choosing a suitable goat feeder can be tricky, and you have to evaluate various aspects before purchasing one.

To help you out, we have listed some of the crucial things you need to consider before buying a goat feeder.

Herd size

The number of animals on your farm will play a crucial hand in determining how many feeders you will require. For instance, you can purchase a small feeder for a small herd, while a multiple feeding design will suffice for 4-5 goats.

Additionally, you will have to evaluate which design works for you best, depending on your herd size. It would be best to consider your herd size before purchasing a goat feeder.

Material

Goat feeders have different styles and variations. You can choose between net bags, steel mesh, or wooden feeders, depending on your requirements.

However, you have to ensure that you choose the goat feeder after considering your farm size. For instance, if you have fewer mouths to feed, a small hay net bag would suffice your needs.

Likewise, if you have a commercial farm, you can employ the duties of heavy-duty steel mesh or net bags.

Choosing the suitable material can save you a lot and will also help in the farm’s productivity.

Type

Apart from choosing durable materials, you must evaluate which feeder type provides the best value for your farm. For instance, if your herd includes many young animals, choosing a hanging goat feeder will ensure minimal wastage.

Likewise, floor-placing or wall-mounted goat feeders are perfect for adults. These goat feeders are also efficient in providing feed to 4-5 goats at a single time.

It would be best to consider the type you require by evaluating the above factors. If you want a goat feeder for young ones, the hanging goat feeder is an excellent choice.

Floor-placing or wall-mounted would be perfect for grownups.

Pricing

As we mentioned earlier, a commercial farm spends 70% on feeds itself, which means you will have to carefully evaluate your expenditure to get the best value from your farm.

Since the material of a goat feeder determines its price, you can estimate your expenditure. However, like most products, a cheaper goat feeder may not suffice for your needs and provide value.

It would be best to invest in goat feeders that provide value for money so that you don’t incur a loss in the future.

Best goat feeders reviews

Best goat feeders at a glance

• Best Overall – Rugged Ranch SG31HG
• Best Budget – ASOOLL hay bag feeder
• Best Premium – Tarter Farm and Ranch Equipment TF8
• Best Durability – Rugged Ranch GV3PF
• Best Maneuverability – Tarter Farm and Ranch Equipment GMF
• Best feeding space – Tarter Farm and Ranch Equipment GSBF
• Best freestanding feeder – Tarter Farm and Ranch Equipment GH4
• Best value for money – Tarter Dura Tough Mini Feeder DTSA
• Best adjustable goat feeder – Tarter AHG

1. Rugged Ranch SG31HG – Best Overall

If you are looking for a heavy-duty goat feeder that offers a convenient and efficient feeding experience, the SG31HG from Rugged Ranch is worth considering. This goat feeder offers 3-in-1 functionality, perfect for feeding goats and sheep.

The powder-coated steel construction makes it durable and perfect for any weather condition. The SG31HG’s hanging mechanism makes it versatile as you can hang it anywhere on your farm. You can use bolts or clips to mount the hanging feeder using the inbuilt rings on the feeder’s top.

The SG31HG is perfect for small to medium herd sizes, and most farmers will love the efficiency of this goat feeder. You can set this goat feeder at a comfortable height where your herd can enjoy their meal with minimal fuss. However, you will have to set up more feeders if you have a large herd size.

The large opening grills allow easy access for goats and sheep, while the tray below serves as the perfect spot for grain and other food items. You can feed salt, grain, or alfalfa or use the bottom tray for water.

Pros

• 3-in-1 goat feeder
• It comes with large grills for easy access
• It comes with a bottom tray for grain and salt
• The SG31HG features steel rings on the top for easy mounting
• Heavy-duty metal construction
• It can take weights up to 22 lb
• You can use it indoors or outdoors

Cons

• Not ideal for large herds
• You will have to use heavy-duty bolts to make the feeder stable

Overall, Rugged Ranch’s SG31HG is one of the best goat feeders in 2022 and will help you minimize wastage and spills.

2. ASOOLL goat feeder – Best Budget

Although goat farming is a lucrative business, not all farmers have the resources to employ expensive feeders on their farms. If you are one of them, our following product will relieve you as it provides a versatile feeding solution without breaking your bank.

The ASOOLL goat feeder features a durable nylon construction with webbed edges and reinforced grommets. Although this product is primarily designed for horse feeding, you can use it to feed goats as it is versatile and will suit any farming scenario.

This feeder has a mesh bottom that keeps the hay dry and prevents dust and debris from contaminating the feed. You can also hang this feeder using the reinforced grommets to keep pests and insects away from the feed. Additionally, the adjustable straps allow you to adjust the feeder according to your requirements.

Pros

• High-quality nylon construction with 1000D mesh bottom
• It comes with adjustable straps for enhanced stability
• You can use the reinforced grommets for hanging purposes
• It comes with a large capacity
• It keeps the hay dry and prevents mildew growth
• Easy to install and use

Cons

• Not ideal for outdoor conditions
• You may have durability issues in the long run

Overall, the ASOOLL goat feeder is a budget-friendly option for farmers who don’t want to spend on expensive goat feeders.

3. Tarter Farm and Ranch Equipment TF8 – Best Premium

The TF8 is an 8 feet long goat feeder that scores high on versatility and efficiency. This heavy-duty goat feeder features high-quality steel construction that is excellent for goats, sheep, and other small animals. Although the product weighs around 118 lb, you can carry this goat feeder anywhere on your farm.

The TF8 features an excellent length of 8 feet, making it ideal for a large herd. This length can provide enough feeding space for five adult goats without disturbing each other. The V-bottom design also allows you to provide more feed to your animals, reducing effort and refilling time.

One of the most significant advantages of this goat feeder is the overhead guard, which prevents animals from messing with the hay. In short, you can let your goats feed without bothering about goats standing inside the hay feeder. Additionally, the corrosion-resistant finish enhances durability and will keep your goat feeder safe in any weather condition.

You can get the TF8 in two variants – 4 and 8 feet. While the smaller version may not suffice for a large herd, it is relatively cheaper than the 8-feet version.

Pros

• High-quality steel construction
• It comes with an overhead guard, preventing goats from stepping inside the feeder
• Corrosion-resistant finish
• Excellent length for a large herd
• The weight prevents goats from moving the feeder
• Easy to clean

Cons

• A bit expensive

Overall, the TF8 is one of the best premium goat feeders that will help you feed your goats without breaking a sweat.

4. Rugged Ranch GV3PF – Best Durability

If you are looking for a durable goat feeder that can withstand any weather condition, look no further than the GV3PF from Rugged Ranch. This galvanized goat feeder features high-quality steel construction perfect for outdoor elements.

The GV3PF features a freestanding design making it portable and versatile for any farm. You can place this feeder both indoors and outdoors as the 15 gauge steel tubes will keep the feeder stable on all surfaces. Additionally, the small form factor makes it ideal for tighter spaces.

Besides sporting a heavy-duty construction, this goat feeder features galvanized catch basin and hay racks. You also get a grain pan where your goats can access the feeding area with minimal fuss. Additionally, the grain pan features drain holes to keep the feeding area dry and free from contamination.

Besides goats, you can also use this galvanized feeder for mini horses and sheep as the 4 feet height is perfect for these animals.

Pros

• Heavy-duty steel construction for enhanced durability
• It comes with a galvanized catch basin and hay racks
• Easy to clean and set up
• You can use this goat feeder both indoors and outdoors
• The 15 gauge steel tubes keep the feeder stable on any surface
• Excellent grains and hay capacity
• It comes with water outlets to keep the feed dry

Cons

• Not ideal for a large herd
• The height may not be suitable for baby goats

Overall, The GV3PF is one of the best goat feeders that score high on durability and versatility and is undoubtedly worth considering.

5. Tarter Farm and Ranch Equipment GMF – Best portable feeder

If you are looking for a specific goat feeder that allows you to feed grains with hay, the Priefert Feeder is undoubtedly w

Managing the feeding space can become tiresome if you have a large farm area. You will have to set up various feeding stations to keep your animals active and provide them food whenever they want. Thankfully, the GMF from Tarter Farm and Ranch Equipment will help you achieve both.

The GMF is specifically designed to feed minerals and comes with a protective feeder that keeps the minerals dry and safe from weather conditions. Additionally, the corrosion-resistant finish enhances durability and will easily withstand environmental elements.

Besides sporting a unique design, the GMF goat feeder features extra-long legs to aid stability. This design keeps the feeder stable and prevents tipping during feeding sessions. Additionally, the wheel design allows you to place this goat feeder on any surface.

Pros

• Excellent height for sheep, goats, and other small animals
• High-quality construction
• It comes with a protective feeding vane that keeps the minerals safe from weather elements
• The GMF features an extra-wide base for stability
• Easy to clean and set up
• You can place this goat feeder on any surface

Cons

• Only one animal can feed at a time
• Not ideal for horned animals

Overall, the GMF scores high on portability and offers an excellent base for added stability.

6. Tarter Farm and Ranch Equipment GSBF – Best feeding space

If you have a large herd and are looking for a durable goat feeder, look no further than the Tarter goat bunk feeder. This goat feeder has a spacious feeding area that can accommodate 6 adult goats with ease. You can also use this feeder to feed other small animals on your farm.

The low-built design makes the GSBF accessible for small animals, and even baby goats will love their feeding space with adults. The sturdy build ensures that the feeder will stay in place even when overcrowded. Additionally, the durable legs keep the feeder stable on all surfaces.

Besides featuring a durable build, the GSBF has an advanced coating to prevent white rust. This corrosion-resistant finish also keeps the feeder safe from weather elements. You can also use water and other recommended chemicals to clean the feeder without bothering about rust.

Tarter also supplies an optional hay rack with a wire mesh for minimal waste. This goat rack also comes with a corrosion-resistant coating to prevent white rust.

Pros

• Excellent build quality
• Easy to clean
• It comes with a corrosion-resistant coating for preventing white rust
• Excellent for large herds
• You can use this feeder for other small animals
• Optional hay rack

Cons

• No overhead guard
• A bit heavy

Overall, Tarter’s GSBF is one of the best goat feeders you can find in 2022, perfect for a large herd.

7. Tarter Farm and Ranch Equipment GH4 – Best freestanding feeder

Freestanding goat feeders offer two things – the ability to place the feeder anywhere and the perfect feeding height for small animals. While most freestanding offer similar features, the Tarter GH4 stands out in the crowd with its superior build quality and portability.

The GH4 features a high-quality steel construction that makes it durable and perfect for all weather conditions. You can place this freestanding goat feeder indoors and outdoors without bothering about weather elements. Additionally, the galvanized steel legs offer stability on any surface, making it versatile for most farms.

The 4-feet height is perfect for goats and other small animals and will provide an excellent feeding experience. However, we did find the height not suitable for baby goats, and you will have to work out a plan to feed the babies separately.

One of the most significant advantages of using this goat feeder is its portability. Besides sporting a manageable weight, you can fold the GH4 for transport or storage. The foldable design makes it ideal for farmers who want a portable feeding solution.

Pros

• Durable build quality
• It comes with galvanized steel legs for superior stability on all surfaces
• Corrosion-resistant coating to prevent rust
• Easy to clean
• It features a foldable design for storage and transport
• Excellent feeding height for goats and other small animals

Cons

• Not ideal for baby goats
• A bit expensive

Overall, the GH4 is perfect for farmers who want a portable and freestanding goat feeder.

8. Tarter Dura Tough Mini Feeder DTSAF – Best value for money

When you search for the best value for money product, you often consider two things – functionality and affordability. The Tarter DTSAF is a perfect combination of functionality and affordable pricing, making this goat feeder one of the best.

The DTSAF is a sturdy feeder and features durable steel construction, and the corrosion-resistant coating also makes it ideal for any weather condition. In short, you can use this feeder indoors and outdoors without worrying about corrosion and other effects caused by natural elements.

Farmers will love the hay rack to minimize waste by using a slow feeding system. The DTSAF also features a grain trough that keeps the feed safe and dry above the ground. Additionally, the grain trough’s height is perfect, making it accessible to all animals.

One of the most significant advantages of this goat feeder is its versatility, as you can use the DTSAF as a dual feeder. This dual-feeding option saves time and effort and also promotes animal health.

Pros

• High-quality steel construction
• Excellent height for goats and other animals
• It comes with a corrosion-resistant coating
• Ideal for large herds
• It comes with a dual-feeding option to minimize waste
• The grain trough is accessible even to baby goats
• Excellent value for money

Cons

• A bit heavy

Overall, the DTSAF is an excellent value-for-money goat feeder that scores high on functionality and affordability.

9. Tarter AHGF – Best adjustable goat feeder

The AHGF is a unique and versatile goat feeder. Besides sporting a durable construction, this goat feeder features height adjustability, allowing farmers to adjust the height according to their requirements. In short, you can use the variable design to feed adults and babies with minimal fuss.

Although the AHGF carries a premium price tag, it is perfect for farms with different animals. For instance, you can use this feeder to feed various small animals or even horses. In short, you will have a complete feeding solution for your farm without bothering about the types of animals you have.

Besides height adjustability, the AHGF features a V-shaped hay rack that minimizes hay wastage. This design makes the feeder stable and prevents goats from stepping inside the feeding area. The e-coat finish protects the feeder from weather elements and resists corrosion.

Pros

• It comes with variable height adjustment
• Excellent build quality
• Corrosion-resistant coating to prevent rust
• Easy to clean
• It comes with drain holes to keep the feeder dry
• Ideal for all types of animals

Cons

• A bit expensive

Overall, the AHGF goat feeder is one of the best in the business and undoubtedly worth considering.

Frequently asked questions

What are the different types of goat feeders?

Goat feeders have several variations and styles, with each having its advantages and disadvantages. Here are the three common types of goat feeders.

• Grain/hay feeders – These feeders have two different racks and are more efficient in reducing feed wastage. The bottom rack gathers the spills and reduces contamination.
• Trough feeders – They are the best option for larger herds. These feeders have a large feeding capacity, and you can place food for up to six animals simultaneously.
• Hay nets – Hay nets are the most versatile and cheapest goat feeders that you can get. Additionally, these feeders encourage a slow feeding process, which improves your herd’s digestion and overall health.

Which is the best hay for goats?

Alfalfa hay is one of the top choices of many professional and commercial farm owners. This hay consists of more minerals, proteins, and vitamins than other hay variants. Additionally, it provides calcium and energy to milking goats.

How much hay does a goat need?

A goat would require 2-4 pounds of hay, depending on its size. You can feed them twice per day and improve their rumen functioning.

Can you feed goats with sheep food products?

Yes, you can feed sheep feed to goats. Additionally, you can add a copper mineral supplement to your goat feed to boost its health.

Final Thought

So which goat feeder will you try on your farm?

Choosing a goat feeder depends on your herd size. For instance, the trough feeder will suffice your requirements if you have a large herd and plenty of mouths to feed. Likewise, you can choose between the net feeders or dual feeders according to your needs.

We believe this article will help you improve your farm’s productivity and efficiency.