- Type
- Concentrate
- Crude protein
- 16%
- NSC (sugar + starch)
- 18%
- Ca : P
- 1.8 : 1
Values vary by brand. A good camelid ration supplies selenium, vitamin E, zinc, copper and vitamin D in camelid-appropriate amounts.
Typical nutrient profile
| Measure (dry-matter basis) | Typical value | Rating for alpacas |
|---|---|---|
| Dry matter | 90% | As-fed moisture: dry, stores well |
| Crude protein | 16% | High — breeding & growth |
| ADF (acid detergent fiber) | 22% | Highly digestible |
| NDF (neutral detergent fiber) | 38% | High intake potential |
| TDN (energy) | 65% | High energy |
| Calcium | 1.1% | |
| Phosphorus | 0.6% | |
| Ca : P ratio | 1.8 : 1 | Balanced |
| NSC (sugar + starch) | 18% | High — limit for easy keepers |
| Fat | 3.5% |
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 | Camelid Pellet (typical commercial) (16% 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
Feed per the label — typically 0.5–1 lb (225–450 g) per adult per day — to balance minerals and vitamins in a hay-based diet.
Protein compared with other feeds
Best for
- All life stages (per label)
Frequently asked questions
Is camelid pellet (typical commercial) good for alpacas?
Values vary by brand. A good camelid ration supplies selenium, vitamin E, zinc, copper and vitamin D in camelid-appropriate amounts. With about 16% crude protein it is high — breeding & growth for alpacas.
How much camelid pellet (typical commercial) does an alpaca eat per day?
Feed per the label — typically 0.5–1 lb (225–450 g) per adult per day — to balance minerals and vitamins in a hay-based diet.
Is it too high in sugar?
At around 18% 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.