Yes, alpacas can eat thyme — in moderation.
Safe in small amounts.
- Verdict
- In moderation
- Serving size
- A sprig
- Food group
- Herbs & green
How to feed thyme safely
- Wash and cut into small pieces.
- Offer by hand or spread out in a shallow pan so greedy eaters don't gulp — a sprig.
- Keep all treats under about 5% of the daily diet; hay or pasture and a camelid mineral come first.
- Introduce anything new gradually and watch droppings for the next day.
Nutrition facts (per 100 g)
| Nutrient | Amount | What it means for alpacas |
|---|---|---|
| Water | 65.1 g | Moderate water |
| Energy | 101 kcal | Moderate |
| Fiber | 14.0 g | Good fiber |
| Protein | 5.6 g | |
| Fat | 1.7 g | |
| Calcium | 405 mg | |
| Phosphorus | 106 mg | |
| Ca : P ratio | 3.8 : 1 | Fine in small amounts |
| Vitamin C | 160.1 mg | Not required — camelids make their own |
Source: USDA FoodData Central, SR Legacy — “Thyme, fresh” (FDC ID 173470).
Other good treats
Frequently asked questions
Can alpacas eat thyme?
Yes, alpacas can eat thyme — in moderation. Safe in small amounts.
How much thyme can I give my alpaca?
A sprig. Treats should stay under about 5% of the diet.
Can baby alpacas (crias) eat it?
Crias should get milk, then hay and pasture. Hold off on treats until they are weaned and eating forage well, and always use tiny pieces.
See the complete list of foods alpacas can and can't eat, our feeding guide and the toxic plant checker.
This page is educational and does not replace advice from a veterinarian who has examined your animals. Camelid medicine uses many drugs “extra-label”, so dosing must come from your vet. In an emergency, call your vet first. Read our disclaimer · How we write and review content.