Feeding alpacas
properly is essential for their health, fiber quality, and reproduction. Here's
a basic alpaca feeding guide:
1. Forage (Primary Diet)
· Pasture or hay should make up the bulk of their diet.
· Alpacas typically need 1.5–2% of their body weight in
dry matter per day (about 2–4 lbs or 1–2 kg per alpaca).
· Good quality grass hay (e.g., timothy,
orchard, or Bermuda grass) is ideal.
· Limit alfalfa hay—it's too rich in protein and
calcium unless used for pregnant or lactating females.
2. Pasture Grazing
· Rotational grazing is ideal to avoid overgrazing and
parasite build-up.
· Remove toxic plants (e.g., ragwort, yew, foxglove).
3. Supplementary Feeds
· Pellets or grain: Only if needed (e.g., for growing crias, pregnant/nursing
females, or underweight alpacas).
o Choose a feed specifically for camelids or one that’s low
in sugar and high in fiber.
· Mineral supplements: Provide a free-choice mineral mix made for
camelids.
o Avoid sheep minerals (too low in copper).
o Avoid cattle minerals (too high in copper—can be toxic).
4. Water
· Clean, fresh water should always be available.
· Use heated buckets or troughs in freezing temperatures.
5. Salt
· Provide loose salt or a salt block to encourage water
intake and electrolyte balance.
6. Treats (Occasional)
· Apples, carrots, or sweet feed in small quantities.
· Avoid sugary, starchy, or moldy foods.
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