GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT GOATS

Lifespan

10 - 14 years

Sexually mature

From 6 months

In season (when female goat is fertile & can become pregnant )

Between Sept and March; lasts up to 3 days. If not mated, females will come into season every 21 days. Once mated, goats can stay in milk for 2 - 3 years.

Gestation (length of pregnancy)

5 months.

Number of offspring

1 to 4.

Weaning (coming off milk onto solid food)

Not earlier than 10 - 12 weeks. The young need to eat increasing amounts of solid food from 2-3 weeks old, in order to encourage rumen development and poor condition.

Disbudding

At 3 - 7 days.

Handling

Goats are sensitive, intelligent animals which should be handled in a smooth calm manner.

Companionship

Goats are social animals and are happier in pairs. They do have a pecking order.

HEALTH PROBLEMS

Diarrhoea (scouring)

Seek advice from a veterinary surgeon straight away.

Enterotoxemia

Acute inflamation of the gut, often fatal. Can be prevented by regular vaccination.

Mastitis

Inflamed swollen udder in females. Caused by bacterial infection and encouraged by bad hygiene. Seek vet's advice.

Overgrown feet & Foot Rot

Feet must be inspected and trimmed every 4-6 weeks. Seek expert advice on foot care.

Worms

Symptoms include diarrhoea Can be prevented by regular worming. Seek vet's advice immediately.

Skin problems

A goat's skin ought to be clean and well groomed. If there are any signs of irritation or skin disease, seek vet's advice.

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