The ancestors of the alpacas in the USA came from the ancient lands of Peru, Chile and Bolivia. They get their nutrition from the bounty of the South American soil. When they were imported to the USA, they still keep their old diet but other kinds of food are needed to be added because the USA soil don’t lack some minerals and nutrients that are abundant in South America.
Americans who breed alpacas give alpacas hays aside from the ready supply of pasture grass. One alpaca is given an average of 3 pounds of hay everyday. The most used hay type is the ones that are used for horses because it has a good amount of protein
In addition to the staple food of grass and hay, alpacas are also given food supplements because they can’t get all their nutrients from the hay. Certain minerals are lacking in the American soil and so alpacas are given supplements in the form of mineral blocks. These are the same mineral blocks that are given to goats.
Since alpacas are used to eating grass alone, they develop digestive problems when they are given food supplements. Because of this, they are also give probiotics. Probiotics are a kind of bacteria that help in the proper digestion of food.
Having a good diet is important for alpacas because it shows in their fiber and in their posture. Alpacas who eat food with some protein, carbohydrates and other minerals produce more beautiful fleece and have over-all good health and good looks. They will be very good for shows and competitions.
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