Using Mineral Supplements and Electrolytes

by Linda Hayes, Llama Linda Ranch, Glenwood Springs, CO

Minerals: There are many mineral supplements designed especially for alpacas. It is a good idea to offer them as it helps the animal stay healthy and make better use of the feed that it is given. Be sure to use the kind made just for llamas or alpacas as ones mixed for other animals usually have too much copper in it. You won’t feed much so it’s a wise investment. If you just have a few animals, ten pounds will last a long time.

Most ready mixed llama and alpaca feeds already have minerals mixed in but it’s never a bad idea to offer extra, free choice. Some individuals may need more than what is available in their feed. If you are mixing your own feed, which can be a real money saver, adding the mineral mix is a must.

It can be fed different ways. You can set some out in a pan and let them eat it free choice. I notice they will leave it alone for days on end and then when their bodies crave it, it will be nearly gone. The PG girls really go for it the last couple of months before giving birth.

I also sprinkle it on their feed everyday. (A little less than a teaspoon per alpaca) That way I am sure they are getting what they need. Some days they will leave it at the bottom of the pan, other days they lick it all up. I do this as well as putting it out free choice.

Electrolytes: In the summer when it gets really hot you will need to feed electrolytes as well. This and shearing is the main thing to do to keep them from heat stress. I put about a half teaspoon on their feed, every day, once the temperature reaches 90 degrees. You can use the type sold for horses and get it at most feed stores and llama supply stores.

You can also offer it in water but if you do, be sure and change it daily as the water will sour. You also need to offer a different water source that is plain water so that the ones that don’t like it will have a place to drink.

In the summer the heat can be a killer so be sure and put out plenty of fresh water and have shade for them. Early summer shearing is also a must If you want to sell or show your fleece you should avoid tender breaks which are caused by an alpaca being under stress. These are weak places in the length of the fiber that occurred when the alpaca’s health was compromised. Heat stress is one of the major causes of tender breaks.

Alpacas are pretty hearty and easy to care for but they will really bloom if given the right feed and minerals. Check your alpaca supply store and see which they suggest, I think you will notice a difference in your alpacas once you start feeding minerals and electrolytes.