Will Goats Eat Tomato Plants?

Goats are known to be voracious eaters. They will eat almost anything they can get their teeth on - from grass to tree bark. They have even been known to eat tin cans and plastic bags! So, it's no surprise that many people wonder if goats will eat tomato plants.

The Answer

The short answer is yes - goats will eat tomato plants. Tomato plants fall under the category of vegetables and fruits, which are part of a goat's natural diet. Goats are known to eat a variety of vegetables and fruits, including broccoli, kale, cucumbers, apples, and pears. Tomato plants, which include both the leaves and the fruit, are no exception.

However, just because goats will eat tomato plants doesn't mean that they should. Tomato plants contain solanine, a toxic compound that can be harmful to goats. Consuming large amounts of solanine can cause gastrointestinal problems, such as diarrhea and vomiting.

Prevention is Key

Given the potential risks, it's important to prevent goats from eating tomato plants. If you have a garden with tomato plants, there are several steps you can take to protect your plants from goats:

Install a fence around your garden to keep goats out. A fence should be at least 4-5 feet tall and made of sturdy material.

Consider using a repellent. You can make a natural repellent by mixing cayenne pepper and water and spraying it on your tomato plants. There are also commercial repellents available that are specifically designed to keep goats away.

Provide your goats with plenty of food and water. If your goats are well-fed, they are less likely to be interested in eating your tomato plants.

Conclusion

In conclusion, goats will eat tomato plants, but it's best to prevent them from doing so. Tomato plants contain solanine, which can be harmful to goats in large amounts. By installing a fence, using a repellent, and providing your goats with plenty of food and water, you can protect your tomato plants and keep your goats healthy and happy.