Goats are considered as seasonally polyestrous animals, meaning that the vast majority of goat breeds traditionally go into heat several times during the autumn months. Understanding the signs of a goat in heat can help owners take measures to either prevent pregnancy or to provide breeding opportunities with a male goat or “buck.”
During the autumn months, the period of daylight becomes shorter and shorter and it’s this that signals the start of the goat’s breeding season. Throughout the fall, it’s not uncommon to see a female or “doe” go into heat on several occasions – three is average. Alpine goat breeds and goats commonly used for milk production usually exhibit this seasonal heat pattern.
Notably, goats living in warmer equatorial regions may not exhibit this seasonal heat pattern. In warm climates where there is little seasonal variation, it’s not uncommon to see heat cycles occurring throughout the year. Nubian goats are one breed where this is commonly observed.
What Are the Signs of Heat?
When a doe goes into heat, this is a sign that her body is ready to breed, therefore, females exhibit certain behaviors that signal males. This heat episode can last anywhere from a few hours up to four days. It’s more typical to see these briefer heats in younger does.
According to Virginia Hadley, longtime goat breeder and enthusiast, the following are among the most common signals that a doe’s heat cycle is underway:
- Vocalization: Increased vocalization is among the most common behaviors exhibited by a doe in heat. “Calling” and “bleating” is common, meaning that the doe will vocalize for no apparent reason.
- Tail Flagging: Goats do not commonly wag their tail, as a dog would. But frequent tail wagging or “flagging” is common in a doe in heat. The tail may also start wagging in response to petting of her neck and back.
- Mounting: Does may be seen mounting other does when they’re in heat. And it’s also not uncommon for a doe in heat to allow others to mount her.
- Aggression: A submissive and easy-going doe can be transformed by hormones, leading to fights with other goats. The opposite can also occur during heat, when a normally assertive doe will allow others to act in an aggressive manner toward her, without defending herself.
- Unusual Feeding Patterns: A doe in heat will commonly change her eating habits, exhibiting a distinct lack of interest in food. Notably, unwillingness to eat can also be a sign of illness, so when other signs of heat are not present, it’s good practice to consult a veterinarian concerning the doe in question.
- Physical Changes: Vaginal discharge, along with redness and swelling in the hind quarters is often seen in a doe in heat. The discharge can also lead to damp or clumped fur on the tail. In a goat who produces milk, milk production tapers off significantly during the heat cycle.
The decision of whether or not to breed a goat can be a difficult one. Consulting a veterinarian and researching the basics can go a long way toward helping a goat owner make an informed decision.
