- Type
- By-product feed
- Crude protein
- 30%
- NSC (sugar + starch)
- 7%
- Ca : P
- 0.1 : 1
High phosphorus and sulfur (polioencephalomalacia risk). Not recommended for camelids.
Typical nutrient profile
| Measure (dry-matter basis) | Typical value | Rating for alpacas |
|---|---|---|
| Dry matter | 90% | As-fed moisture: dry, stores well |
| Crude protein | 30% | Very high |
| ADF (acid detergent fiber) | 17% | Highly digestible |
| NDF (neutral detergent fiber) | 37% | High intake potential |
| TDN (energy) | 85% | High energy |
| Calcium | 0.1% | |
| Phosphorus | 0.9% | |
| Ca : P ratio | 0.1 : 1 | Inverted — urinary stone risk in males |
| NSC (sugar + starch) | 7% | Low sugar/starch |
| Fat | 10% |
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 | Distillers Dried Grains (30% 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
Typically 0.25–0.5 lb (110–225 g) dry weight per day as part of the ration; soak pellets for older animals.
Protein compared with other feeds
Use with care for
- Camelids in general
Frequently asked questions
Is distillers dried grains good for alpacas?
High phosphorus and sulfur (polioencephalomalacia risk). Not recommended for camelids. With about 30% crude protein it is very high for alpacas.
How much distillers dried grains does an alpaca eat per day?
Typically 0.25–0.5 lb (110–225 g) dry weight per day as part of the ration; soak pellets for older animals.
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.