Goats are increasingly popular on small hobby farms, where their welfare needs for social companionship and space are often misunderstood.
Goats on hobby farms frequently suffer from isolation, inadequate fencing that leads to injuries and escapes, and insufficient veterinary care. Single goats are acutely distressed and demand constant attention. Improper nutrition causes metabolic diseases like milk fever and ketosis. Overgrown hooves cause chronic lameness. Despite being touted as easy starter livestock, goats have complex needs that novice keepers often fail to meet.