- Type
- By-product feed
- Crude protein
- 17%
- NSC (sugar + starch)
- 27%
- Ca : P
- 0.1 : 1
Inverted calcium-to-phosphorus ratio is a risk factor for urinary calculi.
Typical nutrient profile
| Measure (dry-matter basis) | Typical value | Rating for alpacas |
|---|---|---|
| Dry matter | 89% | As-fed moisture: dry, stores well |
| Crude protein | 17% | High — breeding & growth |
| ADF (acid detergent fiber) | 13% | Highly digestible |
| NDF (neutral detergent fiber) | 45% | Average |
| TDN (energy) | 70% | High energy |
| Calcium | 0.13% | |
| Phosphorus | 1.1% | |
| Ca : P ratio | 0.1 : 1 | Inverted — urinary stone risk in males |
| NSC (sugar + starch) | 27% | High — limit for easy keepers |
| Fat | 4% |
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 | Wheat Bran (17% 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
- Males (urinary stones)
Frequently asked questions
Is wheat bran good for alpacas?
Inverted calcium-to-phosphorus ratio is a risk factor for urinary calculi. With about 17% crude protein it is high — breeding & growth for alpacas.
How much wheat bran 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.
Is it too high in sugar?
At around 27% 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.