Alpaca Farmgirl

Alpacas are ruminants. Their digestive system are different from humans. Their stomach has three compartments, and they chew their cud like cows do. However, cows can exist on low quality forage, while alpacas need higher quality grass and hay.

Alpacas should have access to young, tender pasture grass or good quality hay at all times. Alpaca Nutrition expert, Norm Evans, DVM recommends for alpacas hay or pasture that is 10-14% protein with a TDN of 55-63%. The calcium and phosphorus ratio should be 2:1 or less and the potassium should be 1.75% or less. Orchard grass is ideally suited for alpacas, but other grasses with the above ratios will work as well. Pasture and hay should account for around 80% of the alpacas’ diet.

In the United States many alpaca breeders give their alpacas a supplemental feed. It’s like “alpaca chow”, a dry food specially made for alpacas. You can order alpaca feed from most feed stores, and some brands allow you to have it shipped directly to your farm. Extra vitamins and minerals are also available for alpacas. These are fed as top dressing or offered in a separate dish free choice.
For more information about Alpacas and their care, visit our website. More articles like this one at the Alpaca Farmgirl Blog.

Photo credit: Val Newell of Crown Point Alpacas