Goats are wonderful creatures that come in a variety of shapes and sizes. There are over 200 breeds in goat farming, and each has its specific use. Some goats are bred for their milk, while others are raised for their meat. Some goats are even used for their hair, made into yarn or cloth. No matter your reason for owning a goat, you can still make it a part of your family.
- Dairy Goats:
Dairy goats are among the oldest domesticated animals and have been used for their milk for centuries. Today, there are many different dairy goat breeds used for milk production. Some of the most popular breeds include the Alpine, LaMancha, and Nubian. Each breed has unique characteristics that make them well suited for milk production.
- Meat Goats:
Meat goats are a specific breed of goat raised for their meat. There are two primary breeds of meat goats: the Boer and the Spanish. Meat goats are popular in many parts of the world as they are a lean, healthy source of protein. Meat goats are typically smaller than dairy goats, and they have a shorter gestation period, which makes them an efficient source of meat. Meat goats can be raised on pasture or in confinement, reaching market weight quickly.
- Fiber Goats:
Fiber goats come in many types. The Angora goat is known for its mohair, a type of wool. The Cashmere goat is known for its cashmere, a very soft and fine type of wool. Other breeds of goats are used for their fiber, such as the Pygmy goat, the Nigerian Dwarf goat, and the LaMancha goat.
Goat Management:
Goats are herd animals and do best when they have at least one other goat to socialize with. They require clean water and fresh hay or straw bedding, and a balanced diet of hay, grain, and fresh vegetation. Goats need access to shade and shelter from the elements and should be checked for parasites regularly. In addition to general care, there are a few things to keep in mind when housing goats.
Common Health Issues:
The most common health issues experienced in goat farming include parasites, mastitis, and enterotoxemia. There are also some specific diseases that goats can get, and knowing which ones to watch out for. For instance, Parasites Parasites can affect any part of the goat’s body, causing several different problems. Some parasites are hard to detect, but others cause obvious signs that you can easily find and treat. The most common parasites in goats are internal and external worms.
