mikey
FARM MANAGER
Hero Member
Posts: 4361
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« on: December 18, 2007, 09:45:48 AM » |
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feeding a market goat is often similar to feeding breeding goats.They need the same minerals and viramins as breeding animals,but will differ in the amounts of protein and energy.Market goat rations will provide high levels of both protein and energy to keep the animal growing while adding body condition.Goats can be finished out either in a feedlot or on pasture.Keep in mind that pasture feeding will allow for slower growth as compared to a feedlot.Feeds for goats can be divided into several different categories,forages (fibre),grains (energy),sometimes protein supplements are needed, you want approx.14-18% protein level on a daily basis,less than that add protein supplements.minerals and water.Depending on what levels of each category that you feed,will find goats will gain approx. .25-.5 a pound each day.One can adjust their rations to have your goats reach a particular market weight in a specified amount of time.For herds that are prone to urinary calculi,add ammonium chloride to prevent the disease.No matter what the ration,be sure to provide enough feeder space for all the goats to eat.One should plan aleast 1 foot of feeder space for each goat.You will want to either cover feeders or make them high enough that the goats cannot jump into them.Remember always clean the feeders and waterers on a regular basis.Keep everything as clean as possible.
By:Melanie Barkley
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