- Type
- Grain
- Crude protein
- 12.5%
- NSC (sugar + starch)
- 60%
- Ca : P
- 0.2 : 1
Typical nutrient profile
| Measure (dry-matter basis) | Typical value | Rating for alpacas |
|---|---|---|
| Dry matter | 89% | As-fed moisture: dry, stores well |
| Crude protein | 12.5% | Good |
| ADF (acid detergent fiber) | 7% | Highly digestible |
| NDF (neutral detergent fiber) | 20% | High intake potential |
| TDN (energy) | 84% | High energy |
| Calcium | 0.06% | |
| Phosphorus | 0.39% | |
| Ca : P ratio | 0.2 : 1 | Inverted — urinary stone risk in males |
| NSC (sugar + starch) | 60% | High — limit for easy keepers |
| Fat | 2% |
Typical averages from published feed-composition tables. Hay varies enormously with species, maturity, soil and curing — a forage test (about $25–$40) is the only way to know what your hay provides.
Does it meet each life stage's protein needs?
| Life stage | Protein target | Barley (grain) (12.5% CP) |
|---|---|---|
| Adult maintenance (non-breeding, fiber animals) | 8–10% | Used as a supplement, not the whole diet |
| Pregnant female (months 1-8) | 10–12% | Used as a supplement, not the whole diet |
| Pregnant female (last 3 months) | 12–14% | Used as a supplement, not the whole diet |
| Lactating female | 12–14% | Used as a supplement, not the whole diet |
| Weanling / yearling (growing) | 14–16% | Used as a supplement, not the whole diet |
| Working herdsire | 10–12% | Used as a supplement, not the whole diet |
| Senior (12+ years) | 10–12% | Used as a supplement, not the whole diet |
How much to feed
Grain is rarely needed. If your vet recommends extra energy, start with a few ounces and never exceed about 0.5 lb (225 g) per day, introduced over two weeks.
Protein compared with other feeds
Use with care for
- Most alpacas
Frequently asked questions
Is barley (grain) good for alpacas?
With about 12.5% crude protein it is good for alpacas.
How much barley (grain) does an alpaca eat per day?
Grain is rarely needed. If your vet recommends extra energy, start with a few ounces and never exceed about 0.5 lb (225 g) per day, introduced over two weeks.
Is it too high in sugar?
At around 60% NSC it is on the high side; limit it for overweight or inactive alpacas and test your hay.
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.