Feeding goats efficiently and sustainably is crucial for small-scale farmers, homesteaders, and anyone raising goats as a hobby or business. This list covers 21 practical DIY hay feeder ideas that help reduce waste, protect hay from the weather, and keep your goats healthy and happy. Each feeder design is easy to build with common materials and tailored to different space limitations and goat herd sizes.
1. PVC Pipe Hay Feeder
Using PVC pipes, you can create a simple hay feeder by cutting vertical slots into a large diameter pipe to allow goats to pull out hay bundles without scattering it. PVC is lightweight, weather-resistant, and easy to clean, making it perfect for outdoor setups. This design minimizes hay waste and keeps feeding areas tidy.
2. Pallet Wall Feeder
Repurpose old wooden pallets by securing them vertically against a fence or wall, then stuffing hay between the slats. Pallets provide natural ventilation, preventing mold buildup, and their sturdy structure withstands goat pressure well. This low-cost feeder is ideal for those with limited tools or budget.
3. Barrel Hay Feeder
Cut a large plastic or metal barrel in half horizontally and drill holes or slots along the sides for goats to access the hay. Mounting the barrel on legs keeps hay off the ground and reduces moisture absorption. Barrels are durable and can hold significant amounts of hay for larger herds.
4. Wire Mesh Rack Feeder
Create a rack using galvanized wire mesh stretched over a wooden frame with openings sized to prevent goats from pulling out too much hay at once. The wire mesh allows airflow, keeping hay dry and fresh. This design is easy to customize and repair if damaged.
5. Trough-Style Wooden Feeder
Build a simple trough-shaped feeder from treated lumber with raised sides to hold hay securely. Trough feeders keep hay contained, reduce spillage, and can be designed with slatted bottoms for drainage. They are suitable for indoor or covered feeding areas.
6. Hanging Hay Net Feeder
Use durable nylon hay nets suspended from a sturdy overhead beam or tree branch to mimic natural browsing. Hanging feeders reduce ground contamination and slow down feeding, promoting better digestion. Hay nets are commercially available but can also be made from heavy-duty mesh fabric.
7. PVC Frame with Chicken Wire
Construct a rectangular frame from PVC pipe and wrap it with chicken wire to create a lightweight, portable feeder. The wire openings let goats pull hay through without dumping it on the ground. This feeder is easy to move and clean, perfect for rotational grazing setups.
8. Upcycled Tire Hay Feeder
Cut an old tractor tire in half and secure it to a wooden base to form a rounded hay feeder. The tire’s rubber sides prevent damage from goat chewing, and its shape naturally contains hay. This eco-friendly design repurposes materials that might otherwise go to waste.
9. Metal Livestock Feeder Modified for Goats
Modify a standard livestock metal feeder by adding vertical bars spaced to suit goats’ smaller heads. Metal feeders are durable and easy to sanitize, reducing parasite risks. Adjusting bar spacing prevents overconsumption and hay waste.
10. Wooden Slat Hanging Feeder
Build a feeder from wooden slats spaced evenly and hung from chains or ropes. This feeder allows goats to pull hay through gaps but keeps it off the ground and away from moisture. Hanging feeders also discourage goats from standing or sleeping in the hay.
11. PVC Corner Feeder
Form a triangular hay feeder using PVC pipes to fit snugly into pen corners, maximizing space. The design helps keep hay contained and accessible while reducing floor mess. This corner feeder is especially useful in smaller pens or sheds.
12. Wire Basket Feeder
Use a sturdy wire basket, such as a repurposed vegetable basket, mounted on a stable frame to hold hay. The basket’s open design encourages airflow and easy access, and it’s lightweight for easy relocation. Wire baskets are widely available and inexpensive.
13. Wooden Pallet Bin with Slats
Build a bin from pallet wood with vertical slats spaced 2-3 inches apart to hold hay securely. This design allows goats to nibble through the gaps without pulling large amounts out. The pallet bin is low-cost and highly customizable in size.
14. Plastic Storage Bin Feeder
Cut openings into a large plastic storage bin to create a weather-resistant feeder that keeps hay dry. Plastic bins are easy to clean and durable in various climates. Adding ventilation holes prevents condensation and mold.
15. Log Frame Feeder
Use untreated logs to build a rustic hay feeder frame with crossbars to hold hay bundles. Logs are sturdy and blend well in natural farm settings. This feeder can be built without complex tools, perfect for rural or off-grid environments.
16. Hanging Chain-Link Feeder
Construct a feeder from sections of chain-link fencing bent into a trough shape and hung from overhead supports. The chain-link allows goats to pull hay while preventing excessive waste. This durable feeder withstands heavy use and weather exposure.
17. Recycled Pallet and Wire Feeder Combo
Combine a wooden pallet base with an attached wire mesh front to create a feeder that holds hay securely and prevents scattering. The pallet base elevates the hay, keeping it off damp ground. This hybrid design is budget-friendly and effective.
18. Galvanized Tub Feeder
Use a galvanized metal tub with cutouts or added bars to allow goats to eat while preventing them from climbing in. Metal tubs are easy to clean, rust-resistant, and can be filled with large hay amounts. They’re especially good for outdoor use.
19. Hanging Basket with Rope
Attach a sturdy basket to ropes and hang it at goat head height to reduce ground contamination. Hanging baskets are portable and encourage natural feeding postures. They also help slow down fast eaters, promoting better digestion.
20. DIY Slatted Crate Feeder
Repurpose wooden crates with slatted sides to hold hay bundles. The slats provide ventilation and easy access while containing the hay. Crates can be stacked or mounted on legs for convenience.
21. PVC and Mesh Wall-Mounted Feeder
Build a wall-mounted feeder using a PVC frame covered with a fine mesh to hold hay bundles securely. This design saves floor space and keeps hay off dirty ground. Wall-mounted feeders are ideal for small barns or sheds with limited space.
How to Choose
When selecting a DIY hay feeder design, consider the size and number of your goats, available space, and climate. Durability and ease of cleaning matter most to prevent mold and disease. Choose feeders that minimize hay waste by restricting the amount goats can pull out at once. Weather resistance is key if the feeder will be outdoors. Also, think about whether you prefer stationary or portable feeders depending on your pasture rotation or pen size. Finally, use materials that are safe and non-toxic for goats, avoiding sharp edges or treated woods that could harm them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I clean my goat hay feeder?
Cleaning feeders weekly or whenever you notice mold, dirt, or buildup is best to maintain hygiene and prevent respiratory issues.
Q: Can I use metal feeders for goats?
Yes, galvanized metal feeders are durable and easy to sanitize but ensure bar spacing suits goats’ smaller heads to prevent injury or waste.
Q: What size openings are ideal for goat hay feeders?
Openings between 2 to 4 inches allow goats to pull hay comfortably without pulling out large clumps that cause waste.
Q: Are hanging hay nets better than ground feeders?
Hanging hay nets reduce contamination and waste but require secure mounting and regular inspection for wear.
Q: How can I prevent goats from standing or sleeping in the feeder?
Use feeders with raised edges or hang them off the ground to discourage goats from climbing in or bedding down.
Q: Is it okay to build feeders from treated wood?
It’s safer to avoid chemically treated wood as goats may chew it; untreated or naturally rot-resistant wood is preferred.
Final Thoughts
Building your own goat hay feeder is a rewarding way to save money, reduce waste, and tailor feeding solutions to your herd’s needs. Whether you opt for simple pallet feeders or more elaborate PVC and mesh designs, focusing on durability, hygiene, and ease of access will improve your goats’ health and your feeding efficiency. With these 21 practical ideas, you can create sustainable feeding setups that support happy, well-fed goats year-round.
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