KidZone Animals
Goats: Teeth

"Goat Grin" by The Case Farm;
used with permission under CC BY 2.0

Goats have teeth that are specifically made for chewing and grinding all of the different types of food that they come across. On their lower jaw, goats have 8 incisor teeth used for biting off leaves and branches. Goats have 24 molars on the lower jaw, as well, that they use to grind up their food.

On their upper jaw, however, goats do not have teeth; instead, they have a special pad, called a dental pad, that helps them rip and tear their food!

Although goats are usually friendly and happy animals, if they get irritated (especially in petting zoos), they are not afraid to give visitors a little nibble! Always be respectful and kind when visiting, or even petting, these cute creatures!