Fattening goats effectively involves a combination of proper nutrition, good health management, and appropriate housing. Here’s a practical guide to help you fatten goats:
- Choose the Right Goats
Breed matters: Meat breeds like Boer, Kiko, or Savannah fatten faster than dairy or fiber breeds.
Age: Young goats (4–12 months) are ideal for fattening.
Health: Only select healthy goats with no signs of parasites or diseases.
- Deworming and Vaccination
Deworm before starting fattening to ensure feed efficiency.
Follow a vet-recommended vaccination schedule to prevent diseases.
- Feeding Strategy
a. Roughage (Forage)
Provide quality hay, grass, or browse. It should make up 40–60% of their diet.
Examples: Alfalfa, Napier grass, and legume hays.
b. Concentrates (Grain Mix)
Make up 40–60% of their diet.
Typical mix includes:
Maize (corn) or barley – energy source
Soybean meal or cottonseed cake – protein
Wheat bran – fiber and minerals
Molasses – energy and taste enhancer
Example mix (per 100kg):
Maize – 50kg
Soybean meal – 25kg
Wheat bran – 20kg
Molasses – 5kg
Add mineral/vitamin premix
Feed 2–3% of body weight in concentrates daily, split into two meals.
c. Minerals and Salt
Provide a mineral block or mix with feed.
Free-choice salt lick helps maintain electrolyte balance.
- Water
Clean, fresh water should always be available.
- Shelter and Comfort
Dry, clean, and well-ventilated housing.
Avoid overcrowding.
Protect from rain and extreme temperatures.
- Fattening Period
Usually takes 60–90 days.
Monitor weight weekly (using tape or scale).
Adjust feed as needed.
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