Cause
a. "Simple" goiter (known also as "colloid" goiter) of newborn kids is due to iodine deficiency in the pregnant doe's diet. Often, salt is sold without iodine included. Iodine should be added to the mineral mix of goats.

Signs
a. Defined, symmetrical enlargement of the thyroid gland.
b. The thyroid gland is located in the ventral part of the "throat latch" in the upper part of the trachea (wind-pipe).
c. Affected does have a swollen throat, kids are often born with little or no hair, act weak and often succumb to starvation.

Treatment
a. Does not improve chances of survival.

Prevention
a. Stabilized iodized salt in diet of gestating does.
b. Salt mix should contain at least 0.007% available iodine.

This article is used by permission and is part of:
Nutritional Effects on Goat Health
by Helen A. Swartz
State Sheep, Goat and Livestock Specialist
Lincoln University Cooperative Extension