We have 2 dearly loved Nubian does. 1 had small bumps about the size of pencil erasers on her teats and udder. Now the other goat has a black udder and under tail and the one who has the bumps is getting black. We have changed the bedding, both seem to be eating and drinking ok and otherwises seem to be in good health. Flies are bad this year. *PLEASE* help!

-- Tammy (AK) (heritage@mtaonline.net), April 18, 2001

Answers

Tammy,

I seem to remember reading something in the archives recently about black udders possibly stemming from either frostbite or bruising from hand milking.

You might try a Control F in the archives and search for black udder or udders and read what was posted.

Or try a post with Diane's name in the title- she's on of hte goat experts here.

Best of Luck- I hope your girls improve soon.

-- Kristin, in La. (positivekharma@aol.com), April 19, 2001.

The udders on your goats are tanning. It's perfectly normal this time of year when they are getting out into the sun more. Don't worry.

The bumps could be either fly bites, or the "goat pox" goats sometimes get when kept on bedding that is too wet & dirty. Even though you've changed the bedding now, it will take a week or so to run it's course. It's normally not serious, either.

-- Julia (charmer24@juno.com), April 19, 2001.