Alpaca Feed: Fibre Rich Rations for Every Alpaca and Llama

Alpaca Feed: Structure and Minerals for Alpacas and Llamas

Alpacas and llamas digest differently from cattle or sheep. Their stomach is built for fibre rich food taken in slowly and steadily over the day. Here you will find mueslis, pellets and licks made for exactly that, among them Agrarzone Alpaca Muesli Classic, Leimueller Camelid Muesli and lucerne pellets for a steady basic supply.

Hay as the basis, concentrate as a top up

Good hay covers the largest part of the ration. Concentrate comes on top in small amounts, above all for pregnant and nursing females, for older animals and during the cold season. Lucerne pellets add extra structure and protein, and they are available GM free and in organic quality. Split the daily amount into several portions and introduce any new feed slowly over one to two weeks, so that the digestion has time to adjust in peace.

Covering minerals properly

A salt lick belongs in every group, so the animals can take up salt and trace elements when they need them. Make sure that mineral feed and licks are declared for alpacas and llamas, because mixtures for other species often miss the requirement for copper and other trace elements. A lick holder keeps the block dry and clean and stops it lying in the bedding. Fresh water matters just as much, because even the best ration is of little use without proper drinking. Check the drinkers daily, rinse them out when the water goes cloudy and make sure they do not freeze over in winter.

Frequently asked questions

How much concentrate does an alpaca need?
Healthy animals get by on very little as long as the hay is good. Go by body condition, age and pregnancy, and weigh the amount rather than guessing.

Is sheep feed suitable for alpacas?
Use feed that is mixed for alpacas and llamas. Only then do the fibre content and the supply of trace elements match what these animals actually need.

How do I store the feed best?
Dry, cool and safe from rodents. A feed bin with a lid keeps muesli and pellets fresh and stops animals helping themselves.