Formulating goat feed involves balancing energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals to match the goats’ age, production stage (e.g., growing, lactating), and purpose (meat, milk, or maintenance). Here’s a general guide:
- Know the Types of Goats and Their Needs
Kids (young goats): High protein for growth.
Lactating does: High energy and protein for milk production.
Bucks (males): Moderate maintenance needs.
Dry does: Maintenance-level feed; lower in protein and energy.
- Basic Feed Ingredients
You can mix feeds using locally available ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of the main components:
Energy sources (50–60%)
Maize/corn
Sorghum
Cassava
Molasses (limited amount)
Bran (wheat or rice)
Protein sources (15–25%)
Groundnut cake
Soybean meal
Cottonseed cake
Fish meal (expensive, use sparingly)
Leucaena or other legume forages
Fiber/Bulk (10–30%)
Hay (e.g., alfalfa, grass)
Dried leaves (banana, sweet potato vines)
Silage
Minerals and Vitamins
Salt (1–2%)
Dicalcium phosphate or bone meal (for calcium/phosphorus)
Premix (commercial vitamin/mineral mix)
Water
Always provide clean, fresh water.
- Sample Feed Formula for a Lactating Doe (per 100 kg)
Adjust based on what’s available and affordable locally.
- Tips
Introduce feed changes gradually.
Use quality ingredients (no mold or spoilage).
Provide good forage alongside concentrate.
Consider urea-treated straw if green fodder is scarce (with caution).
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