Breeding Meat Goats - Key Pointers On The Different Requirements Needed

     Breeding meat goats is important in some parts of the world, particularly in areas where goat meat is considered a primary source of protein. They are also good source of fiber and their skin and hair are used for producing various sellable items.In these places, goat's milk has a higher consumption level as compared to cow's milk. Increased demand for goat meat provoked the rise of people breeding meat goats. There are some groups that prefer goat meat in their diet over other types of meat.

Farm owners must invest the different requirements needed in breeding meat goats. Meat goats need proper shelter, easy access to clean water, a feeding area and feeding equipment. Three-sided shelter is applicable in some areas. Low-cost alternatives to traditional houses are greenhouses, shade structures, hoop houses and poly hutches. Fencing, however, can be very expensive. Fencing has two different types; exterior fencing or perimeter and interior fencing, also called cross fencing. Perimeter fencing is used to keep goats in their shelter and protect them from predators. When building a fence, make sure that it is sturdy and prohibits the entrance of animals that can cause harm to goats.

The best type of fencing for livestock is high-tensile fencing. Some goat producers and those breeding meat goats make use of woven wire fences. The cost of woven wire fences is higher compared to other types of fences. The most inexpensive type of fence is the temporary electric fence. It is suitable for interior fences and can be easily installed.

There are breeds of goat that are best suited for the purpose of breeding meat goats. In choosing those that are going to be used for goat meat production adaptability to environment is an important factor. Growth rate, reproductive rate and carcass value are also considered in the selection process. Crossbreeding is often used to combine the good traits of more than one breed. A breed that is counted as a true meat-type goat is the South African Boer goat. It has high fertility and growth rate. The Spanish goat is also a known breed for goat meat production. Brush goats belong to the breed of goats that are made to adapt to their environment. The Pygmy is known to have potential in producing meat goats but this group is small and slow growing. Alpine, Saanen, Oberhasli and Toggenburg must not be used for goat meat production because of pendulous udders, leggy conformation and large teats that are not good signs for breeding meat goats.

The usual breeding season is from August to March. They are known as seasonal breeders. To be successful in breeding meat goats, you must gather enough information about goat reproduction. Proper care must be given to goats to keep continuous goat production. They only give birth to one to three goats. Kids or young goats may experience health problems and need vaccination. Meat goat sales are usually done at the farm gate. They are generally sold by the head even if this scheme is not a preferred selling method for livestock. Yet, up to now it is very common in the livestock business.

If you want to be included in the list of successful Boer goat breeders, you need to plan out your moves and learn from the experts!