Alpaca Nutrition and Feeding Management

By Yembroos® Animal Feeds India Private Limited – Thrissur, Kerala

Introduction

Nutrition is a cornerstone of animal health and productivity. For alpacas, a sound feeding program is critical to maximize their fiber yield and reproductive performance. Nutrient deficiencies can silently impair the immune system, leading to reduced vigor, lower birth weights in crias, and diminished fleece quality. Understanding the specific nutrient requirements of alpacas and knowing how to meet them through appropriate feed choices is vital for successful alpaca husbandry. At Yembroos®, we emphasize the importance of education before acquisition—especially for those unfamiliar with herbivorous hoof stock.

Alpacas can survive extended periods with limited nutrients by borrowing reserves from their own bodies. However, this compromise often goes unnoticed until performance declines or illness sets in. Monitoring body weight, behavior, and feed intake regularly can prevent such nutritional crashes. Being hands-on with your animals—observing subtle signs and deviations from their usual behavior—is essential. Don’t manage from the fenceline; get close, stay aware, and act early.

Nutrition is like a puzzle, and each animal is unique. Factors such as physiological status (pregnant, lactating, growing), health conditions, available feedstuffs, and economic considerations all influence nutritional needs. Since no official nutrient requirement chart exists for alpacas, most standards are extrapolated from small ruminants like goats and sheep. Using dry matter values for feed comparison helps standardize nutrient availability across diverse feed types.

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Alpaca & Llama Quick Facts

Alpaca Fiber Types:

1. Huacaya: Dense, crimpy fiber with a woolly appearance (teddy bear look).

2. Suri: Long, silky, twisted fiber resembling dreadlocks.

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Gastrointestinal Tract (GIT) Overview

Understanding the alpaca’s digestive system is critical to effective feeding. As pseudoruminants, alpacas have a unique three-compartment stomach system:

1. Compartment I (C1): Analogous to the rumen in true ruminants; hosts fermentation by symbiotic microbes that digest fibrous plant materials via the enzyme cellulase.

2. Compartment II (C2): Adds buffering agents and enzymes to the digesta.

3. Compartment III (C3): Similar to a monogastric stomach; produces hydrochloric acid and proteolytic enzymes. This is also where microbial protein is digested, offering a vital amino acid source.

Alpacas, unlike cattle, require high-quality forages due to their smaller size and higher metabolic efficiency. The feeding model of sheep and goats is more applicable than cattle.

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Water: The Forgotten Nutrient

Water is the most critical nutrient for alpacas, yet it is often overlooked. Quality and availability must be monitored closely. Poor water quality, especially from wells or mineral-heavy sources, can interfere with nutrient absorption. For example, high iron levels may bind zinc and copper, affecting immune function and fleece quality.

Yembroos® recommends testing water regularly, even if it’s municipal, to ensure it’s low in harmful microbes, herbicides, and heavy metals. Clean, fresh water must always be accessible to all animals.

Llama and Alpaca Nutrition

1. Classification
   Llamas and alpacas are pseudoruminants, not true ruminants. While they chew cud like cows and goats, they have a three-compartment stomach (Compartment I, II, III) instead of four.

2. Stomach Compartments

   1. Compartment I is analogous to the rumen but lacks papillae. It contains gastric pits that secrete enzymes and buffers to assist microbial fermentation.

   2. Volatile fatty acids (VFAs) produced by microbes are absorbed through the walls of Compartment I and the upper 80% of Compartment III.

   3. Compartment II provides additional glandular secretions and contains the esophageal groove for directing milk to Compartment III in nursing crias.

   4. Compartment III functions like a true stomach. The upper part secretes mucus and enzymes; the lower part produces hydrochloric acid and proteolytic enzymes essential for protein digestion.

3. Digestive Disorders

   1. Camelids rarely suffer from lactic acidosis or bloat unless they overconsume grain.

   2. Colic is more expressive in camelids and presents similarly to horses (groaning, teeth grinding, rolling, etc.).

   3. The spiral colon is unique to camelids and more susceptible to impaction than in ruminants.

4. Adaptability in Native Environment
   In South America’s high altitudes, these animals survive on seasonal, low-nutrient forages and time breeding with rainfall to ensure milk for cria survival.

5. Managed Nutrition Requirement

   1. In intensive farming (India, North America), alpacas and llamas need structured nutrition to avoid high mortality and fertility issues seen in the wild.

   2. Underfed animals may produce low-quality fiber or underdeveloped crias, often without visible symptoms until serious health decline.

6. Industry Data Insight
   A study across 27 states (22,000 llamas, 3,000 alpacas) found that 80% of llama medical problems were linked to poor nutrition—even among experienced breeders.

7. Feed Intake Guidelines

   1. Alpacas consume approximately 1.5%–2% of body weight daily.

   2. A 150 lb (68 kg) alpaca will typically eat about 1.4 kg of food per day.

   3. Monitor individual animals—some overeat by cleaning up leftover feed from others.

8. Supplementation Importance

   1. Hay and pasture must be supplemented with a balanced concentrate to maintain fleece quality, reproduction, and immunity.

   2. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and digestive upset.

9. Yembroos® Feed Formulation Highlights

   1. Our formulations are enriched with copper, biotin, zinc, niacin, vitamin E, and amino acids to improve fiber production without fiber blowout.

   2. Correct vitamin-mineral balance helps prevent crooked legs, promotes milk production, and supports fertility.

   3. Designed to help camelids cope with stress and prevent ulceration or nutrient lockout due to water mineral content

 

Origin of the Animal and Dietary Pattern in Native Habitat

1. The llama and alpaca originate from the mountainous regions of South America—mainly Peru, Bolivia, and Chile.

2. In their native environment, they are browsers, selectively feeding on sparse woody plants and forbs, often traveling long distances to forage.

3. These native plants are typically high in fiber but low in nutritional quality, requiring camelids to expend significant energy to meet dietary needs.

4. As an adaptive response, llamas and alpacas are highly efficient in nutrient utilization and tend to build fat reserves, which can be unnecessary or problematic in more controlled environments.

5. For overweight camelids, increasing exercise is the preferred method to reduce body weight, as simply reducing feed intake may be risky, especially for pregnant females or young, growing animals.

6. Ideal body weights for llamas by frame size are:

   1. Small frame: 250–275 lbs

   2. Medium frame: 275–300 lbs

   3. Large frame: 300–350 lbs

   4. Extra-large frame: 350–400 lbs

7. Frame size is determined by bone structure and overall stature.

8. Llamas and alpacas naturally experience seasonal weight cycling:

   1. Weight gain: Spring and early summer

   2. Weight loss: Late summer through winter

9. Using body condition scoring and keeping regular records is essential for early detection of nutritional imbalances or health issues.

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2. Behavioral Influence on Feed Management

1. Llamas prefer browsing behavior but in most captive environments, they adapt to grazing patterns due to limited choice.

2. Alpacas are more opportunistic feeders than llamas and tend to choose a wider variety of forage types in their native habitat.

3. Both llamas and alpacas consume coarser forage (stems) more than domestic sheep, reflecting adaptations to the dry season forage of their homeland.

4. During drought conditions, camelids can adapt by reducing feed intake and slowing gut transit time—a feature not seen in most domestic ruminants.

5. In preference studies:

   1. Llamas prefer tall, coarse bunchgrasses.

   2. Alpacas favor moist, bottomland plants.

6. Llamas and alpacas lack prehensile tongues (unlike cattle) but can still consume salt blocks, often by chewing rather than licking.

7. It is advisable to offer loose, iodized salt in covered mineral feeders to protect from environmental moisture.

8. Camelids exhibit communal dung pile behavior, making waste management in captivity easier.

9. In the wild, dung piles may serve as territorial markers, indicating the animal’s home range.

 

 

8. Environmental Influence on Camelid Management

8.1. General Adaptability

1. Llamas and alpacas evolved in the cool mountainous climates of South America (e.g., Peru, Bolivia, Chile).

2. Environmental adaptation is partly inherited, but new climates still require adjusted management practices.

3. Relocation stress can occur if animals are moved to different climatic zones (e.g., from Colorado to Virginia or from Virginia to Canada).

4. Animals adapt over time but require intensive oversight during the transition period to prevent health issues.

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8.2. Heat Stress

1. Unlike their camel cousins (Dromedary, Bactrian), llamas and alpacas are not adapted to hot, arid climates.

2. They rely mainly on evaporative cooling via their thermal window (fiberless area on the ventral abdomen), despite having sweat glands across the body.

3. Consequences of heat stress include:

   1. Neurological damage

   2. Congenital defects

   3. Abortion in pregnant females

   4. Reduced sperm quality in males

   5. Colic or digestive upsets

4. Heat stress management techniques:

   1. Shear fiber to promote heat dissipation

   2. Feed only necessary protein (to limit excessive metabolic heat from digestion)

   3. Provide highly digestible feeds to reduce internal fermentation heat

   4. Offer shade and cooling areas

   5. Allow animals access to cool drinking water, wallowing areas, or spray systems

5. Maintain optimal body weight, as overweight animals are more prone to overheating.

6. Heat Stress Index Rule of Thumb:

   1. Temp (°F) + % Humidity > 150 → Monitor animals closely

   2. If >180 → “RED ALERT” for active heat stress risk

7. Thiamin (Vitamin B1) supplementation is recommended during heat stress at 1 mg/lb body weight per day (clinical recommendation based on sheep research).

8. Non-environmental causes of heat stress include:

   1. Transport

   2. Working/packing

   3. Racing or breeding

   4. Fighting

   5. Prolonged restraint

   6. Aggression from other animals or being chased

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8.3. Cold Stress

1. Cold can be problematic, despite common beliefs—North American winters can be harsher than the Andes.

2. Temperatures like -40°F with wind chill exceed natural tolerance levels.

3. During cold weather:

   1. Provide shelter from wind and precipitation

   2. Ensure ice-free water availability

   3. Consider adding grain (up to 20% of dry matter) for added dietary energy

   4. Introduce grain gradually to prevent digestive disturbances by allowing rumen microbes to adjust

 

Water and Energy Sources:
Water is the most vital nutrient for camelids, yet it is frequently overlooked. Although llamas can survive on a single daily watering in arid environments—especially during work—they must be allowed to drink 5–8% of their body weight when they do. Fresh, clean water should always be available, and testing water sources is essential, especially if drawn from wells or springs, to avoid health problems caused by contaminants such as excess minerals or bacteria. As for energy sources, llamas and alpacas perform best on coarse, low-quality grass hay, with minimal grain. Alfalfa should be used cautiously due to its high calcium content. Grains should only be introduced during critical physiological states like late gestation, lactation, or intense cold. Any grain supplementation for young crias must be paired with enterotoxemia vaccination.

Protein, Minerals, and Vitamins:
Protein requirements in camelids are modest but increase during growth, gestation, and lactation. Maintenance levels require 8–10% crude protein (CP), while late gestation and growing animals may need 12–14%, and early-weaned crias up to 16%. Alfalfa hay offers 20% CP, while grass hays typically offer 12%. Mineral supplementation must consider regional variability in soil and water. For example, selenium (Se) deficiencies or toxicities can arise depending on land characteristics. A calcium:phosphorus ratio of 1.2–2:1 is ideal. Copper (Cu) and molybdenum (Mo) must be balanced at a 6–10:1 ratio to avoid fatal toxicity. High sulfur levels (>2000 ppm) or zinc levels exceeding 100 ppm can suppress copper absorption. Vitamin A is generally met via carotene in forage, but vitamin D3 may require supplementation, especially in northern latitudes or during cloudy seasons, to prevent rickets in crias.

Environmental Stress and Water Standards:
Extreme temperatures can stress camelids, especially geriatric animals. In cold weather, access to windproof shelter and heated, ice-free water is vital to maintain intake and digestion. During hot weather, animals must have access to shade, shearing, and cooling systems such as sprinklers or shallow pools. Heavier animals are more prone to heat stress, which can be exacerbated by high humidity or poor ventilation. Water quality should meet basic livestock standards: total solids <1000 ppm, sulfates ≤500 ppm, nitrates <45 ppm, sodium ≤500 ppm, and iron <5 ppm. Proper nutrient management—based on physiological state, forage quality, and environmental conditions—is key to ensuring health, productivity, and longevity in llamas and alpacas.

Nutrition & Pregnancy in Alpacas

Proper nutrition is fundamental to alpaca health, fertility, and cria development. While alpacas generally thrive on quality pasture alone, specific physiological stages—particularly late gestation and early lactation—require targeted nutritional strategies. These stages are critical for fetal development, milk production, future fertility, and long-term fiber quality of the offspring.

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Core Nutritional Strategy

At Southern Alpacas, we follow a carefully developed “nutrition bible” that guides all farm and herd management practices. Our approach emphasizes optimizing soil health and pasture composition to meet as many nutritional requirements as possible through grazing. Supplementation is introduced only when necessary and preferably via feed rather than injectable routes.

Key principles of this strategy include:

1. Relying on high-quality pasture as the base diet.

2. Avoiding unnecessary supplements unless demanded by physiological stress.

3. Regular body condition scoring to detect underweight or overweight animals early.

4. Managing feed intake with precision during late gestation, lactation, and breeding phases.

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Nutrition During Pregnancy & Lactation

Alpacas become pregnant more easily when they are on a rising nutritional plane, especially if lactating at the same time. We move pregnant females to designated birthing paddocks 5–6 weeks before due date, ensuring:

1. Updated 5-in-1 and ADE vaccinations

2. High-nutrition forage through reseeding

3. Controlled supplementary feeding with McMillan lactating chaff (balanced for CP, energy, fiber, TDN, and minerals)

Crude Protein Requirements:

1. Maintenance: 8% CP – typically achieved with good pasture

2. Late Gestation & Early Lactation: 12–15% CP – requires top paddocks and/or supplementation

Why it matters:

1. Promotes healthy fetal development and secondary follicle formation, affecting future fiber yield.

2. Ensures stronger, fast-growing cria

3. Helps dams recover quickly and return to fertility for next mating

Overweight alpacas present a greater risk for:

1. Fertility challenges

2. Dystocia (birthing complications)

3. Fatty liver disease—an acute, often fatal metabolic disorder, especially around birthing

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Monitoring & Intervention

While most alpacas thrive on natural grazing, it’s critical to:

1. Regularly assess body condition

2. Separate thin or at-risk animals for higher-protein supplementation

3. Watch for symptoms like feed refusal, excessive sitting, weight loss, or discomfort—especially during late gestation, which may indicate fatty liver or other disorders

In short, targeted nutritional management during key reproductive periods reduces medical interventions, enhances breeding success, and secures optimal outcomes for both dam and cria.

Getting Started with Alpacas: A Beginner’s Guide

1. Why Choose Alpacas?

Alpacas are intelligent, gentle, and curious animals that make excellent additions to small farms and lifestyle properties. Whether it’s the fluffy Huacaya or the elegant Suri with its silky, dreadlocked fleece, alpacas are captivating to both experienced keepers and first-time livestock owners. They are low-maintenance compared to other farm animals, require modest space, and offer rewarding companionship alongside economic value through fleece, breeding, and eco-grazing.

2. Herd Structure & Social Needs

Alpacas are herd animals and must never be kept alone. A minimum of two animals is required to maintain social well-being. Common starter options include a pair of wethered (castrated) males, which are easy to manage and ideal for non-breeding purposes. If purchasing a female with a cria (baby), ensure she has at least one other adult for companionship. Most breeding females are sold pregnant, eliminating the need for a permanent stud—visiting males can be arranged for rebreeding.

Keep males and females in separate paddocks, except for castrated males, which can live peacefully with females. Alpacas can usually cohabit with sheep, cattle, or horses, but donkeys and dogs may pose a threat. Fencing must be dog-proof, as alpacas perceive dogs as predators. With time and proper introduction, they may tolerate a resident farm dog.

3. Land, Fencing & Nutrition

You need approximately half an acre to comfortably house two alpacas. Though similar in size to sheep, alpacas are more efficient grazers due to their three-chambered stomachs and slower digestive process. Standard 7-strand farm fencing is sufficient, but avoid electric fencing, as their fleece can become entangled.

Alpacas thrive on pasture-based diets, supplemented by hay during winter or drought, and optionally alpaca-specific pellets or muesli, especially for pregnant or lactating females. Be cautious when co-grazing with sheep, as sheep often crop the grass too low for alpacas to access it properly. Monitor and remove toxic plants, just as you would for sheep and cattle.

Although alpacas originate from cold, dry Andean climates, they are not adapted to prolonged wet and cold conditions. Always provide adequate shelter—a stand of trees, a hedge, or a small shed—allowing them to choose their comfort based on weather.

Selecting your Alpaca

 

 

Camelid Body Scoring

 

Herd Improvement through Judicious Choice of Studs

In an evolving alpaca industry, where genetic diversity and performance data are increasingly accessible, breeders must take a strategic and informed approach when selecting a stud. Whether purchasing a male or using outside stud services, the objective should be to complement and strengthen your existing herd. There is no universal “perfect stud”; each male brings distinct attributes—such as fiber quality, conformation, or temperament—that must align with your herd’s specific genetic gaps and breeding goals. Make it a point to examine the stud’s lineage, assess progeny performance, review fiber statistics (micron, SD, CV, crimp), and request AGE data (Across-herd Genetic Evaluation) before making a decision.

Before selecting a stud, define your breeding goals clearly. Are you breeding fine-fibered whites for the commercial fleece market, or aiming for beautifully marked pets with desirable temperaments? Your objective could be genetic improvement in density, brightness, or staple length—or color diversification for niche markets. With the AGE system now available, breeders can benchmark traits with more accuracy than ever before. It’s also wise to consider proven lineage over unproven hype: the well-bred son or grandson of a renowned sire may offer better value and more relevant traits than an imported or heavily promoted male with limited data.

Ultimately, the success of your breeding program hinges on pairing the right male with the right female, guided by clear targets and robust performance data. Fiber characteristics should align with your end-product strategy—whether it’s uniformity for fine garments, or bold crimp and density for felting and insulation markets. By making informed, goal-driven stud choices, you not only improve the next generation but also increase your returns on stud fees and animal investments.

Selection Considerations for Alpaca Studs

When selecting a stud male, data-driven decisions and genetic evaluation must guide the process. The AGE (Across-herd Genetic Evaluation) system is a critical tool—still developing, but already offering the first impartial, quantified framework to assess performance across the alpaca industry. Breeders should request AGE rankings for all potential studs and match these with their breeding goals, such as improving micron, shear weight, or curvature. At the same time, pedigree analysis is essential to avoid line breeding, especially in regions like Australasia where the genetic base remains limited. It is also wise to assess genetic color inheritance, especially for white, grey, or black breeding programs—selecting homozygous white studs, for instance, minimizes unwanted color traits in the offspring.

Conformation, temperament, and presence are equally important and often overlooked. If your female shows a minor conformational fault, such as sickle hocks or misaligned pasterns, she should be bred to a male with strong, correct posture in those traits to avoid genetic reinforcement of weaknesses. Likewise, temperament and presence—traits with both environmental and genetic influence—should be considered, especially if your breeding goal includes companion animals or show stock. These traits are observable and inheritable to a degree, and they can influence the long-term value and manageability of your herd.

When evaluating fiber traits, breeders must accept that no stud excels at everything. In Huacaya, micron and shear weight often take priority; however, these traits are inversely correlated—low micron and high fleece weight rarely coexist. A wise approach, as advised by legendary breeder Don Julio Barreda, is to first fix density, then work on fineness. Other traits such as crimp style, curvature, uniformity, and fleece character are gaining breeding significance, especially with increased understanding of their correlation with processing performance. Herd-level uniformity is key when producing textile-grade fleece blends. Therefore, breeders must not only look at the individual stud’s traits, but also how those traits will harmonize across their herd, with an eye toward minimizing intra-herd fiber variation for better product uniformity.

Your Stud Decision: Maximizing Genetic Impact

Choosing the right stud—or deciding whether to purchase or contract one—is one of the most critical strategic decisions in any alpaca breeding operation. Beyond the initial female acquisition, stud selection profoundly shapes herd genetics, fiber quality, and long-term performance. It’s essential that this decision be driven by your breeding goals, not by industry hype, show ribbons, or marketing buzz. The alpaca industry is maturing, and reliance on “venerable ancestors” must evolve. Today’s breeders should actively seek out high-performing sons or grandsons of these foundational males—animals with proven AGE data, strong progeny results, and traits that align precisely with your herd’s gaps and future direction.

As female numbers grow, breeders naturally face the buy vs. contract dilemma. A phased approach is prudent: start with external stud services, negotiate bundled matings when purchasing females, and consider partial stud ownership later. While owning a stud can save on service fees, the upfront cost, management burden, and limited resale value of aging males can outweigh the benefits—especially if the male lacks consistent use or proven pre-potency. Breeding your own stud male from elite genetics remains an option, but the likelihood of producing a top-tier male cria is statistically low, and long-term returns may not justify the effort for small-scale breeders.

On the other hand, contracting proven studs offers professional management, genetic flexibility, and lower operational risk. It also allows ongoing diversification of bloodlines and the ability to pivot if a genetic match underperforms. Many breeders now explore shared ownership of elite studs, offering access to superior genetics at a fraction of the full cost, with greater adaptability and reduced overhead. Ultimately, the goal is not simply stud access—it’s achieving consistent, measurable herd improvement. Whichever path you choose, make sure it aligns with your breeding plan, herd structure, and long-term value creation.

Alpaca Care and Diet: Simple, Efficient, and Rewarding

Alpacas are among the easiest and most cost-effective livestock to maintain, making them ideal for both first-time owners and seasoned farmers. Their hardiness is rooted in their Andean origins, where they thrived in extreme conditions for thousands of years. Alpacas require only a basic three-sided shelter facing east-southeast to protect them from wind and rain, and in warm climates, adequate shade and airflow are essential—fans may be used during humid conditions. Fresh, clean water should always be accessible, as alpacas are sensitive to water quality even though their intake is minimal.

Nutritionally efficient, alpacas thrive on good pasture and require less feed than most ruminants of similar size. Grazing on non-fertilized natural grasses is often sufficient, especially with rotational pasture management to allow for regrowth and parasite die-off. Supplementary low-protein grass hay can be offered when pasture is insufficient, with limited alfalfa as needed. Many owners also provide a small quantity of commercial alpaca grain daily to ensure intake of selenium and vital vitamins not typically found in U.S. forage. Feed should be stored dry and served in containers that reduce waste.

Alpacas do not challenge fencing and are typically housed for predator protection rather than containment, requiring five-foot fencing with narrow mesh. Five to ten alpacas can comfortably be maintained on one acre, depending on pasture quality and layout. Veterinary care is minimal, involving annual vaccinations, monthly deworming, and biannual toenail trimming. While owners often handle basic care, having a veterinarian experienced with camelids—especially alpacas—is strongly recommended. With minimal input and good management, alpacas offer an exceptionally rewarding and low-maintenance livestock experience.

Feed Intake in Alpacas: Understanding Dry Matter vs. As-Fed

Feed intake in alpacas varies depending on age, body weight, sex, and physiological demands such as pregnancy or lactation. It’s important to distinguish between dry matter intake (DMI) and as-fed weight. Dry matter refers to the actual nutrient content excluding moisture, while as-fed includes moisture and is the amount you physically feed. For example, an adult 150 lb alpaca typically consumes 1.5–2.0% of its body weight as dry matter per day—roughly 2.3 to 3.0 lbs. Given pasture grass is about 35% dry matter, this translates to about 8.6 lbs of fresh pasture. In contrast, hay at 90% dry matter requires only 3.3 lbs of feed to meet the same DMI. For younger alpacas, such as 2-year-old females weighing 120 lbs (approx. 54.5 kg), DMI at 2% of body weight equals 1.09 kg/day, which translates to 1.18 kg (2.60 lbs/day) as-fed if using hay at 92.3% dry matter. Careful monitoring of feed intake and bunk behavior helps ensure alpacas are consuming what they need, especially as intake can shift due to environmental stress or diet changes.

Caring for Elderly Alpacas

As alpacas age, their immune systems weaken—a condition known as immune senescence—making them more vulnerable to stress-induced infections that younger animals can typically resist. Managing geriatric alpacas requires close attention to nutrition, stress reduction, and gastrointestinal health. Key considerations include dental condition (to ensure proper digestion of roughage), feeding access (as older animals may be bullied by younger, more aggressive alpacas), and tailored nutrition with high-quality grass hay and vitamin-mineral supplements. Parasite control is also essential. Stress—whether from weather changes, loss of companions, inadequate shelter, or even routine handling—can compromise gut microflora and trigger health decline. Preventative care with daily probiotics, especially during or after stress events, supports gut health and immune resilience. Products like MSE (granulated, paste, or drench) help maintain microbial balance and may even slow or reverse immune decline, ensuring your elderly alpacas enjoy a healthier, more comfortable life.

What Do Alpacas Eat?

Alpacas thrive on a diet that consists primarily of quality pasture grass and hay, which should make up about 80% of their daily intake. The remaining 20% is made up of supplemental feed such as formulated pellets, loose minerals, and probiotics. Ideal grass or hay should contain approximately 12% protein, and hay must be clean, sweet-smelling, and free of mold. Alpacas are highly efficient grazers and require about one 70 lb bale of hay per animal per week when pasture is limited. Maintaining a regular feeding schedule—timed appropriately for seasonal temperatures—supports their digestive health, particularly the function of the first stomach (fermentation vat), which is essential for breaking down fibrous plant matter.

Supplemental pellets are used to meet the additional nutritional demands of pregnant or lactating females, growing crias, and breeding males. A well-balanced pellet with 15% protein is recommended, and quantities should be carefully controlled to avoid overfeeding, which can lead to coarse fiber development. Daily feeding guidelines typically range from ¼ lb for crias, ½ lb for non-pregnant adults, and up to 1 lb for pregnant or lactating females. During winter months or when pasture is poor, pellet intake can be increased by 15%. Alfalfa is also occasionally added to the ration in moderation—particularly for pregnant females—but excessive use should be avoided to prevent calcium-potassium imbalances.

Essential supplements include mineral blocks (preferably equine or goat, not plain salt) to compensate for selenium and other deficiencies common in some soils. Probiotics play a critical role in maintaining gut microflora, particularly under stress or after deworming treatments. These can be offered as a sprinkle over feed during digestive upsets such as diarrhea. With the right nutritional management, alpacas remain healthy, efficient grazers that are relatively easy and economical to care for—making them an ideal investment for small farms and hobby breeders alike.

Vaccinations & Worming

 

Rickets & Phosphate Deficiency in Alpacas

Rickets is a painful metabolic bone disease caused by a deficiency in phosphate and/or vitamin D, leading to impaired bone mineralization. In alpacas, the condition typically presents as bowed legs, swollen joints, outward-turning feet, and a sluggish gait with short steps. Cria and darker-colored animals are especially vulnerable. The root cause often lies in vitamin D insufficiency, as alpacas in regions like New Zealand struggle to synthesize enough of it from sunlight. Vitamin D plays a vital role in phosphate absorption, making its deficiency a major trigger for rickets.

Preventing rickets is straightforward but essential. Most breeders administer injectable Vitamin A, D & E (ADE) supplements every 3–4 months throughout autumn, winter, and spring, with an additional summer dose. A typical dosage is 2 ml per alpaca, though individual requirements may vary. Injectable forms are preferred over feed additives due to their accuracy and efficacy. While lucerne (alfalfa) hay or chaff is considered a helpful natural source of vitamin D, relying solely on it may not offer sufficient protection. Cria and pregnant females should be prioritized in any prevention program, but it’s good practice to treat the entire herd.

Breeders should also be alert to individual variations in response to supplementation. There have been cases where cria developed rickets despite regular ADE injections, suggesting that some animals may require more frequent dosing. Vitamins A and E are also crucial for reproduction and immunity, with deficiencies linked to infertility, abortions, and other reproductive disorders. Although lucerne is often praised for its nutritional profile, there are conflicting reports about its effect on vitamin D metabolism—some claim it supports storage, while others suggest it depletes vitamin D. Until research is more definitive, regular injectable supplementation remains the most reliable preventive measure.

Alpaca Basic Care, Biosecurity & Nutrition

1. Basic Care

Alpacas are among the easiest livestock to manage, requiring minimal daily labor. Routine care includes twice-daily feeding, constant access to fresh hay and clean water, and daily cleaning of pens and pastures. These tasks typically take no more than 30 minutes per session.

A structured health program is essential. This includes routine deworming, annual shearing, toenail trimming, vaccinations, and vitamin supplementation, particularly for crias and pregnant or lactating females. New owners should also familiarize themselves with basic handling procedures such as microchipping, DNA sample collection, and administering injections. At Hemmingford Alpacas, new customers receive hands-on training in essential alpaca care and breeding practices.

Extensive prior experience is not required to raise alpacas. With a willingness to learn and commit to their well-being, alpacas are a highly manageable species, even for first-time livestock keepers.

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2. Biosecurity

Establishing a biosecurity protocol is critical for protecting your alpaca herd and preventing disease transmission. Work with a veterinarian to create a customized plan that includes vaccination (e.g., Tasvax), parasite control (e.g., Ivomec, Panacur, Dectomax), and strict quarantine procedures for new arrivals.

Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVD) poses a serious threat. Breeding farms often require a PCR test on buffy coat cells to confirm that the visiting alpaca is not a PI (Persistently Infected) carrier. Additionally, a coprology test (fecal analysis) helps identify internal parasites, while fleece inspections detect external parasites like mites.

Reference literature such as The Complete Alpaca Book by Eric Hoffman, The Alpaca Field Manual by Dr. Norman Evans, and Llama and Alpaca Neonatal Care by Drs. Smith, Timm & Long offer in-depth guidance. These resources are invaluable for both breeders and veterinarians unfamiliar with camelid care.

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3. Nutrition

Nutrition is foundational to alpaca health. While alpacas are hardy animals, their performance depends significantly on proper diet and forage quality. Good pasture management and balanced hay rations ensure long-term vitality and productivity.

Forage and Hay:

Alpacas thrive on cool-season grasses like Canada grass, orchard grass, or Kentucky bluegrass. Alfalfa, while nutrient-rich, should not exceed 20% of the total diet due to its high protein content. Clover is also favored by alpacas, but it should be grazed before full bloom to avoid exposure to potential fungal toxins.

Hay should be clean, well-dried, and free from mold or mycotoxins. A protein level of 10%–12% is usually sufficient when paired with mineral supplementation. However, higher-protein hay (14–15%) requires careful ration adjustment. Each alpaca consumes approximately two 40-lb hay bales per month.

Supplementation & Feed Testing:

Conduct hay and water analysis through a reliable lab to determine protein, mineral, and vitamin levels. This helps fine-tune supplementation for animals at different physiological stages (e.g., gestating, lactating, growing).

Supplemental feeds, such as commercial alpaca pellets (8–12% protein), should be selected with care. Always follow label guidelines, and adjust based on hay quality, pasture availability, and seasonal needs. Gradually introduce any dietary changes to avoid digestive upset.

Monitoring Nutritional Status:

Regular body scoring and weighing help track individual animal health. To body score an alpaca, palpate along the spine— a hollow indicates thinness, a bump suggests fatness, and an ideal score shows a 45° angle.

One helpful tip: When transporting alpacas to another farm, send a portion of your hay along to enable a smooth dietary transition.

Alpaca Husbandry and Farm Setup

Expert Guidelines for Setting Up and Managing an Alpaca Farm
Yembroos® Animal Feeds India Private Limited

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Land Requirements and Stocking Density

Alpacas are efficient grazers and do not require vast land areas. A general stocking guideline is:

1. 8 alpacas per acre on average-quality pasture

2. Up to 10 alpacas per acre on high-productivity land with rotational grazing

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Predator Protection

Alpacas are prey animals and must be protected from common predators such as:

1. Coyotes, wolves, and stray or domestic dogs

2. Domestic dogs can revert to instinctual behaviors and may harm crias (baby alpacas)

Recommendations:

1. Avoid using domestic dogs unless they are specifically trained livestock guardians. The Great Pyrenees (Montagne des Pyrénées) and Maremma Sheepdog breeds are proven reliable.

2. Llamas are often used as guardians due to their assertiveness, but individual temperament varies.

3. A well-constructed perimeter fence remains the best long-term solution.

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Deer and Parasite Risk

While deer are not predators, they pose a biosecurity threat. Their feces may carry larvae that infect snails—common intermediate hosts for parasites like liver fluke or cause diseases such as Lyme disease.

Prevention Tips:

1. Install deer-proof fencing (8 feet minimum)

2. Clear vegetation around fence lines to discourage snails by reducing damp microenvironments

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Fencing Guidelines

Fencing requirements depend on local threats. For predator and deer protection:

1. Perimeter fence: 8 feet high (2.5–3 m) with 12-foot posts (3 feet buried)

2. Use tight-knot mesh wire fencing; game fence is ideal with smaller mesh at the bottom to protect crias

3. A 2″ x 4″ welded mesh also performs well

4. For added security, place mesh skirting (2 ft wide or 6″ underground) outside the perimeter to prevent digging

Interior fencing:

1. 4 feet (1.2–1.5 m) high is sufficient

2. Design for multiple access gates

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Designing Pens and Layout

Alpacas are herd animals and require visual contact with each other at all times for comfort and behavior regulation.

Essential Pen Types:

1. Maternity pen: Clean area for birthing and bonding

2. Quarantine pen: For new arrivals or sick animals

3. Weaning area: For separating crias from dams

4. Training pen: 6 x 8 ft catch pen for handling

5. Male pens: Separate zones for juvenile and adult males

Infrastructure Tips:

1. Trailer access: For animal transportation

2. Shelters: In each pasture for shade (summer) and wind/cold protection (winter)

3. Barn feeding space: 18–24 inches of feeder space per animal, including submissive or young alpacas

4. Always provide clean, fresh water

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Recommended Equipment List

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Final Notes

1. Shelter design should allow airflow in summer and insulation in winter

2. Pasture layout should maximize visibility among animals

3. Always consider biosecurity when introducing new animals (quarantine + health checks)

4. Invest in quality fencing and infrastructure to reduce long-term management issues

 

Alpaca Feed

 

Gestating Alpaca Feed

 

 

Alpaca Grower Feed

 

Alpaca Maintenance Feed

 

Alpaca Lactation Feed

 

GENERAL DETAILS	Specification
Ingredients	Corn Gluten Meal, Wheat Gluten, Soy Meal, DDGS, Grains, Pluses, Essential Amino Acids, Vitamins, Minerals, Trace Minerals, Toxin Binders and Mold Inhibitor
Moisture % Maxium	12
Ingredient Profile	100% Vegetarian
Product Form	Coarse Mash Form
Product Branding	Yembroos®
Net Weight	39 Kgs When Packed
Product Pricing	On Unit Basis (for each 39 Kgs Packing)
Production Capacity per Day	650 MT/Day
Factory Visit	Not Permissible
Fumigation	Aluminum Phosphide or Methyl Bromide (or any as per buyer specification)
Clinical Test Methodology	As per IS:2052 Proximate Analysis on Dry Matter Basis

 

 

Yembroos Animal Feeds India Private Limited is a leading manufacturer and exporter of scientifically formulated Alpaca Feed, offering a comprehensive range of nutritional solutions tailored for every stage of alpaca development. Our specialized product line includes Alpaca Milk Replacer, Calf Starter, Grower and Finisher Feeds, Breeder and Gestation Feeds, Lactating Alpaca Feed, Maintenance Feed, and High-Fiber Alpaca Forage blends. Each feed is designed to meet the unique digestive and metabolic needs of alpacas, ensuring optimal health, fiber quality, reproductive efficiency, and growth performance without the need for additional supplements. Yembroos® is proud to be a trusted partner for alpaca farms, breeders, and exotic livestock operations across global markets.