- Type
- Protein supplement
- Crude protein
- 54%
- NSC (sugar + starch)
- 15%
- Ca : P
- 0.6 : 1
Concentrated protein used inside balanced rations, not fed alone.
Typical nutrient profile
| Measure (dry-matter basis) | Typical value | Rating for alpacas |
|---|---|---|
| Dry matter | 89% | As-fed moisture: dry, stores well |
| Crude protein | 54% | Very high |
| ADF (acid detergent fiber) | 7% | Highly digestible |
| NDF (neutral detergent fiber) | 14% | High intake potential |
| TDN (energy) | 84% | High energy |
| Calcium | 0.4% | |
| Phosphorus | 0.7% | |
| Ca : P ratio | 0.6 : 1 | Inverted — urinary stone risk in males |
| NSC (sugar + starch) | 15% | Moderate |
| Fat | 1.5% |
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 | Soybean Meal (54% 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
Used inside a formulated ration — not fed on its own.
Protein compared with other feeds
Frequently asked questions
Is soybean meal good for alpacas?
Concentrated protein used inside balanced rations, not fed alone. With about 54% crude protein it is very high for alpacas.
How much soybean meal does an alpaca eat per day?
Used inside a formulated ration — not fed on its own.
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.