# Goat Weaning Management: Timing, Methods, and Post-Weaning Nutrition


## Key Takeaways

- Weaning readiness is determined by a combination of factors, including achieving at least 2.5 times birth weight, consistent consumption of 150-300 g of creep feed daily for three consecutive days, and absence of illness, rather than age alone.
- Gradual weaning, involving a 7-14 day reduction in milk access, minimizes stress and promotes better solid feed intake and rumen development compared to abrupt weaning, which carries a higher risk of digestive upset and behavioral issues.
- Creep feeding, initiated at 2-3 weeks of age with a high-protein (16-20% CP) and energy-dense ration, is crucial for preparing the kid's digestive system for solid feed and facilitating a smoother transition.
- Post-weaning nutrition requires a palatable starter feed (16-18% CP), gradual introduction of high-quality forage, constant access to fresh water, and appropriate mineral supplementation to support continued growth and prevent weight loss.
- Monitoring key performance indicators such as weekly weight gain, feed intake, and fecal consistency, alongside health events like scours or respiratory disease, is essential for identifying and addressing common weaning failure patterns.
- Dam body condition score is a critical factor in weaning decisions; dams below a score of 2.5 may necessitate earlier weaning to prioritize their recovery and future reproductive performance.

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Weaning is the process of transitioning a kid from a milk-based diet to a solid feed diet. This article provides goat farmers with practical guidance on weaning age, gradual versus abrupt methods, creep feeding, and post-weaning nutrition to support kid health and growth. The information is drawn from official sources including the USDA Agricultural Research Service, the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, the Merck Veterinary Manual, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, and peer-reviewed research.

## At a Glance: Weaning Decision Table

| Factor | Early Weaning (6-8 weeks) | Standard Weaning (10-12 weeks) | Late Weaning (14+ weeks) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Kid weight target | 2.5 to 3 times birth weight | 3 to 4 times birth weight | 4+ times birth weight |
| Creep feed intake | Must be consuming 150-200 g/day for 3 consecutive days | Should be consuming 200-300 g/day | Less critical if dam milk supply is adequate |
| Dam condition | Allows dam to regain body condition for next breeding | Balances dam recovery with kid growth | May reduce dam's body condition score |
| Risk of weaning stress | Higher, gut microbiota less mature | Moderate, kid rumen more developed | Lower, kid fully adapted to solid feed |
| Post-weaning growth | Requires high-quality starter feed and careful monitoring | More predictable growth trajectory | Usually smooth transition |
| Labor and feed cost | Higher feed cost for starter, lower milk cost | Balanced | Higher milk cost, lower starter feed cost |

## Understanding Weaning Timing

Weaning timing directly affects kid survival, growth, and future productivity. The decision depends on kid weight, solid feed intake, and dam condition instead of age alone. Research on Kilis goats indicates that pre-weaning traits such as birth weight and weaning weight are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. The study "Heritability and environmental influence on pre-weaning traits in Kilis goats" (Tropical animal health and production, 2023) confirms that management practices during the pre-weaning period significantly impact kid development. Similarly, "Study of genetic parameters for pre-weaning growth traits in inner Mongolia White Arbas cashmere goats" (Frontiers in [veterinary science](/blog/news/veterinary-science), 2022) highlights that growth traits before weaning are heritable and responsive to nutritional management.

### Weight-Based Weaning Criteria

A kid is ready for weaning when it reaches 2.5 to 3 times its birth weight and is consuming solid feed consistently. For meat goats, a minimum weight of 15 to 20 kg is often used as a threshold. For dairy goats, kids may be weaned earlier if they are consuming adequate starter feed. The Merck Veterinary Manual (www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition) provides general guidance that weaning should not occur before kids are consuming sufficient dry feed to maintain growth.

### Age Considerations

While age is a convenient reference, it is less reliable than weight and feed intake. Early weaning at 6 to 8 weeks is possible if kids meet weight and intake targets. Standard weaning at 10 to 12 weeks is common for meat and dairy operations. Late weaning beyond 14 weeks may be used when dam milk production is high or when kids are slow to start eating solid feed. The study "Ages of weaning influence the gut microbiota diversity and function in Chongming white goats" (Applied microbiology and biotechnology, 2021) demonstrates that weaning age alters the gut microbial community, which affects digestion and immune function.

### Dam Condition and Breeding Schedule

The dam's body condition score and breeding schedule influence weaning timing. Weaning allows the dam to regain body condition before the next breeding or lactation. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (www.nrcs.usda.gov) provides resources on [body condition scoring](/knowledge/animal-farming/farm-management/body-condition-scoring-a-tool-for-feed-management) for goats. A dam with a body condition score below 2.5 may benefit from earlier weaning to prevent excessive weight loss. Conversely, a dam with good condition and high milk production may support later weaning.

## Weaning Methods: Gradual versus Abrupt

The method of milk removal affects kid stress, feed intake, and behavior. The study "Effect of different milk-removal strategies at weaning on feed intake and behavior of goat kids" (Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 2020) compares gradual and abrupt weaning strategies. Gradual weaning reduces behavioral signs of stress and encourages earlier solid feed intake.

### Gradual Weaning

Gradual weaning involves reducing milk access over 7 to 14 days. For dairy kids, this means reducing the number of bottle feedings or the volume per feeding. For meat kids, it means separating the kid from the dam for increasing periods each day. The goal is to allow the kid's digestive system and behavior to adjust slowly.

**Practical steps for gradual weaning:**
1.  Week 1: Reduce milk feedings from 3 to 2 times per day.
2.  Week 2: Reduce milk feedings to once per day or reduce volume by 50%.
3.  Week 3: Offer milk every other day, then stop.
4.  Monitor kid weight daily during the transition.
5.  Ensure fresh water and starter feed are available at all times.

### Abrupt Weaning

Abrupt weaning removes all milk access at once. This method is simpler but causes more stress. Kids may vocalize, lose weight temporarily, and be at higher risk for digestive upset. Abrupt weaning is more common in commercial meat goat operations where labor is limited. The study "Early weaning and high feeding level in post-weaning period did not impact milk production in Alpine dairy goats" (Journal of Dairy Research, 2018) indicates that early weaning with high feeding levels can be successful if post-weaning nutrition is carefully managed.

**When abrupt weaning may be acceptable:**
- Kids are at least 12 weeks old and consuming 300 g or more of starter feed daily.
- Dam is in poor condition and needs immediate rest.
- Labor is insufficient for gradual weaning.

### Fence-Line Weaning

Fence-line weaning is a variation where kids and dams are separated by a fence that allows visual, auditory, and limited tactile contact. This method reduces stress compared to complete separation. Kids can see and hear their dams but cannot nurse. After 7 to 10 days, the fence is removed or the animals are moved to separate pastures.

## Creep Feeding: Preparing Kids for Weaning

Creep feeding provides supplemental feed to kids while they are still nursing. This practice encourages early solid feed intake, rumen development, and a smoother [weaning transition](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/weaning-transition-feed-and-water-management). The USDA Agricultural Research Service (www.ars.usda.gov) supports research on early nutrition strategies for livestock.

### Creep Feed Composition

A creep feed for goat kids should be high in protein (16% to 20% crude protein), energy, and digestible fiber. Common ingredients include:
- Cracked corn or barley
- Soybean meal or canola meal
- Alfalfa meal or hay
- Molasses for palatability
- Mineral and vitamin premix

The feed should be offered in a creep feeder that is accessible to kids but not to adult goats. The feeder should be clean, dry, and protected from rain and contamination.

### Introducing Creep Feed

Start creep feeding when kids are 2 to 3 weeks old. Offer small amounts of fresh feed daily. Kids learn to eat by observing their dams and other kids. Place the creep feeder near the water source and resting area. Monitor intake and adjust the amount to ensure feed is always fresh.

### Monitoring Creep Feed Intake

Record the amount of creep feed offered and refused each day. A kid ready for weaning should consume 150 to 300 g of creep feed per day for at least three consecutive days. The study "Association between body weight and distal gut microbes in Hainan black goats at weaning age" (Frontiers in microbiology, 2022) suggests that body weight at weaning is linked to gut microbial composition, which is influenced by early feed intake.

## Post-Weaning Nutrition

After weaning, kids must rely entirely on solid feed for nutrients. A well-planned post-weaning diet supports continued growth and prevents weight loss.

### Starter Feed

A starter feed for weaned kids should contain 16% to 18% crude protein and be highly palatable. The feed can be in pellet or meal form. Pellets reduce waste and ensure balanced intake. Offer starter feed free-choice for the first 2 to 4 weeks after weaning.

### Forage Introduction

Introduce high-quality forage gradually after weaning. Alfalfa hay or a grass-legume mix provides protein and fiber. Avoid low-quality forage that is high in lignin and low in digestibility. The rumen of a weaned kid is still developing, so forage should be fine-stemmed and leafy.

### Water and Minerals

Fresh, clean water must be available at all times. Dehydration is a common cause of post-weaning setbacks. Provide a goat-specific mineral supplement that contains calcium, phosphorus, copper, selenium, and zinc. The USDA National Agricultural Library (www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare) provides resources on mineral requirements for goats.

### Feeding Frequency

Offer feed at least twice daily for the first week after weaning. Small, frequent meals reduce the risk of overeating and digestive upset. After the first week, feed can be offered free-choice if the starter feed is balanced and the kids are healthy.

## Records and Measurements

Keeping accurate records helps evaluate weaning success and identify problems early.

### Pre-Weaning Records

Record for each kid:
- Birth date and birth weight
- Weekly weight gain
- Creep feed intake (daily or weekly)
- Health events (scours, respiratory signs)
- Dam body condition score at weaning

### Weaning Records

Record at weaning:
- Weaning date and age
- Weaning weight
- Method of weaning (gradual or abrupt)
- Creep feed intake for the 3 days before weaning

### Post-Weaning Records

Record for 2 to 4 weeks after weaning:
- Daily feed intake
- Weekly weight gain
- Fecal consistency score
- Any signs of stress or illness

The study "Evaluation of growth parameters and body condition score on weaning stages of Saanen goats" (Journal of advanced veterinary and [animal research](/blog/guides/animal-research), 2022) emphasizes the importance of monitoring growth parameters and body condition during the weaning period.

## Common Failure Patterns

Recognizing common problems allows for timely intervention.

### Weight Loss or Stagnation

Weight loss after weaning is common if kids are not consuming enough solid feed. Causes include:
- Weaning too early before adequate creep feed intake
- Poor palatability of starter feed
- Inadequate access to feed or water
- Disease or parasitism

**Action:** Check feed intake, offer a more palatable starter, and ensure feed and water are always available. Weigh kids weekly. If weight loss exceeds 5% of weaning weight, consult a veterinarian.

### Scours (Diarrhea)

Scours after weaning can result from a sudden diet change, overeating, or bacterial infection. The study "Supplementation of Lactobacillus plantarum or Macleaya cordata Extract Alleviates Oxidative Damage Induced by Weaning in the Lower Gut of Young Goats" (Animals, 2020) indicates that weaning induces oxidative stress in the gut, which can contribute to digestive upset.

**Action:** Reduce feed quantity temporarily, ensure clean water, and provide electrolytes if needed. If scours persist for more than 24 hours or if kids become dehydrated, consult a veterinarian.

### Respiratory Disease

Stress from weaning can suppress the immune system, making kids more susceptible to respiratory infections. Signs include coughing, nasal discharge, and fever.

**Action:** Provide a clean, dry, well-ventilated environment. Avoid overcrowding. Separate sick kids. Consult a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.

### Coccidiosis

Coccidiosis is a common problem in weaned kids, especially when they are stressed or housed in contaminated environments. Signs include scours, weight loss, and rough hair coat.

**Action:** Practice good hygiene, provide clean bedding, and avoid overcrowding. Consult a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment options.

## Welfare and Safety Context

Weaning is a stressful event for kids. Stress affects immune function, growth, and behavior. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (www.fao.org/animal-production/en) provides guidelines on animal welfare during management procedures.

### Minimizing Stress

- Provide a clean, dry, and comfortable environment.
- Maintain consistent feeding routines.
- Avoid mixing kids from different groups at weaning.
- Provide adequate space to reduce competition for feed and water.
- Use gradual weaning when possible.

### Worker Safety

When handling kids and dams during weaning, workers should:
- Use proper handling techniques to avoid injury.
- Wear gloves when handling sick animals or administering treatments.
- Keep facilities clean to reduce zoonotic disease risk.
- Use safe equipment for feeding and watering.

### [Food Safety](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/cooking-chicken-bacteria-prevention)

For dairy operations, weaning affects milk quality. The study "The levels of milk fatty acids and alterations of correlations between them in weaning process in Damascus goats" (Large Animal Review, 2022) examines changes in milk composition during weaning. Ensure that milk from dams is handled hygienically and that kids are not consuming milk that is intended for human consumption without proper pasteurization.

## Limitations and Professional Escalation

Weaning management is not one-size-fits-all. Breed, climate, feed availability, and farm resources all influence the best approach. The study "The effect of type of suckling on the pre-and post-weaning lactation performance of Damascus goats and the growth rate of the kids" (Journal of Agricultural Science, 1986) shows that suckling method affects both dam lactation and kid growth.

### When to Consult a Professional

Consult a veterinarian or livestock nutritionist if:
- Kids lose more than 5% of weaning weight in the first week.
- Scours persist for more than 24 hours despite management changes.
- Respiratory disease affects more than 10% of the weaned group.
- Kids refuse to eat starter feed for more than 48 hours.
- Dam body condition score drops below 2.0 after weaning.

### Record Keeping for Professional Consultation

When seeking professional advice, provide:
- Weaning date and method
- Kid weights before and after weaning
- Feed intake records
- Health event records
- Number of kids affected

## Practical Decision Framework for Weaning Method Selection

Selecting the appropriate weaning method requires a systematic evaluation of kid readiness, farm resources, and production goals. A structured decision framework helps farmers avoid common mistakes and match the weaning approach to specific conditions. This framework integrates weight-based criteria, feed intake records, and labor constraints to produce a clear recommendation.

### Step 1: Assess Kid Readiness Using the Three-Criteria Gate

Before choosing a weaning method, each kid must pass three readiness gates. The first gate is weight: the kid must have reached at least 2.5 times its birth weight. The second gate is solid feed intake: the kid must consume a minimum of 150 g of creep feed per day for three consecutive days. The third gate is health status: the kid must show no signs of illness, scours, or respiratory disease in the 48 hours before weaning. The study "Evaluation of growth parameters and body condition score on weaning stages of Saanen goats" (Journal of advanced veterinary and [animal research](/blog/guides/animal-research), 2022) confirms that growth parameters and health status are critical indicators of weaning readiness.

If a kid fails any of these three gates, delay weaning by one week and reassess. Do not proceed with weaning until all three criteria are met. This gate system prevents the common failure pattern of weaning kids that are not physiologically prepared.

### Step 2: Evaluate Farm Resources and Constraints

After confirming kid readiness, assess the following farm-specific factors:

**Labor availability:** Gradual weaning requires daily monitoring and multiple feedings for 7 to 14 days. If only one person manages the herd and has other responsibilities, abrupt weaning may be the only feasible option. The study "Effect of different milk-removal strategies at weaning on feed intake and behavior of goat kids" (Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 2020) demonstrates that gradual weaning reduces stress but requires consistent daily management.

**Facility design:** Fence-line weaning requires a secure fence that allows visual and auditory contact but prevents nursing. If your facilities lack a suitable separation fence, gradual or abrupt weaning may be more practical.

**Dam condition:** A dam with a body condition score below 2.5 benefits from immediate weaning to prevent further weight loss. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (www.nrcs.usda.gov) provides body condition scoring resources. In this case, abrupt weaning may be necessary despite the higher stress on kids.

**Group size:** Large groups of 50 or more kids are more difficult to manage with gradual weaning because individual monitoring becomes impractical. For large groups, abrupt weaning with careful post-weaning nutrition is often more manageable.

### Step 3: Match Method to Conditions Using the Decision Matrix

Use the following matrix to select the weaning method based on your specific conditions:

| Condition | Recommended Method | Rationale |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Kids pass all three gates, labor is available, facilities allow separation | Gradual weaning over 10 to 14 days | Lowest stress, best feed intake transition |
| Kids pass all three gates, labor is limited, dams are in good condition | Abrupt weaning at 12 weeks or older | Simpler management, acceptable if kids are well-prepared |
| Kids pass all three gates, fence-line separation is possible | Fence-line weaning for 7 to 10 days | Reduced stress without daily handling |
| Kids pass weight and health gates but feed intake is marginal (150 to 200 g/day) | Gradual weaning over 14 days | Extra time to increase solid feed intake |
| Dam body condition score is below 2.5 | Abrupt weaning regardless of kid readiness | Dam health takes priority |
| Kids fail one or more gates | Delay weaning one week, reassess | Prevent post-weaning weight loss and illness |

### Step 4: Implement the Selected Method with Monitoring

Once you select a method, implement it according to the specific protocols described in the Weaning Methods section above. Record the method used for each kid or group. Monitor kids daily for the first week after weaning, focusing on feed intake, weight change, and fecal consistency.

### Step 5: Evaluate Outcomes and Adjust Future Decisions

After weaning, compare actual outcomes to expected targets. The study "Association between body weight and distal gut microbes in Hainan black goats at weaning age" (Frontiers in microbiology, 2022) indicates that body weight at weaning is linked to gut health and future growth. Use the following evaluation criteria:

**Successful weaning:** Kids maintain or gain weight within the first week, consume starter feed readily, and show no signs of scours or respiratory disease.

**Partially successful weaning:** Kids lose less than 5% of weaning weight but regain it within two weeks. Minor scours resolve within 24 hours with management changes.

**Unsuccessful weaning:** Kids lose more than 5% of weaning weight, refuse feed for more than 48 hours, or develop persistent scours or respiratory disease. Review the decision framework to identify where the process failed. Common failures include weaning before kids met the feed intake gate, selecting abrupt weaning when gradual was feasible, or inadequate post-weaning nutrition.

### Record System for Weaning Decisions

Maintain a weaning decision log for each kid or group. Include the following fields:

- Kid ID or group identifier
- Birth date and birth weight
- Weaning date and age
- Pre-weaning weight (day of weaning)
- Creep feed intake for three days before weaning (g/day)
- Health status at weaning (pass/fail for each gate)
- Dam body condition score at weaning
- Selected weaning method
- Labor hours required for weaning
- Post-weaning weight at day 7
- Post-weaning feed intake at day 7 (g/day)
- Any health events in the first 7 days
- Outcome classification (successful, partially successful, unsuccessful)

This record system allows you to identify patterns over time. For example, if kids weaned abruptly consistently lose more weight than those weaned gradually, you may decide to invest in labor or facilities for gradual weaning. The study "Heritability and environmental influence on pre-weaning traits in Kilis goats" (Tropical animal health and production, 2023) emphasizes that management practices during the pre-weaning period significantly impact kid development, and records help refine those practices.

### Troubleshooting Common Decision Errors

**Error 1: Weaning based on age alone.** Age is a convenient reference but does not account for individual variation in growth and feed intake. The study "Ages of weaning influence the gut microbiota diversity and function in Chongming white goats" (Applied microbiology and biotechnology, 2021) demonstrates that weaning age alters gut microbiota, but the optimal age depends on the kid's developmental stage. Always use the three-criteria gate instead of age alone.

**Error 2: Choosing abrupt weaning for all kids.** Abrupt weaning is appropriate when labor is limited or dam condition is poor, but it increases stress and the risk of post-weaning setbacks. The study "Effect of different milk-removal strategies at weaning on feed intake and behavior of goat kids" (Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 2020) shows that gradual weaning improves feed intake. Use the decision matrix to match the method to conditions instead of defaulting to one method.

**Error 3: Ignoring dam condition.** A dam in poor condition needs immediate weaning even if kids are not fully ready. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (www.nrcs.usda.gov) provides guidance on body condition scoring. Prioritize dam health because it affects future breeding and lactation performance.

**Error 4: Failing to monitor post-weaning outcomes.** Without records, you cannot evaluate whether your weaning decisions were correct. The study "Evaluation of growth parameters and body condition score on weaning stages of Saanen goats" (Journal of advanced veterinary and animal research, 2022) emphasizes monitoring growth parameters. Use the record system to track outcomes and adjust future decisions.

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the best age to wean goat kids?

The best age depends on kid weight and solid feed intake instead of age alone. Most kids are ready for weaning between 8 and 12 weeks when they weigh 2.5 to 3 times their birth weight and are consuming 150 to 300 g of creep feed daily. The study "Heritability and environmental influence on pre-weaning traits in Kilis goats" (Tropical animal health and production, 2023) confirms that management factors are critical in determining weaning readiness.

### How do I know if a kid is ready for weaning?

A kid is ready for weaning when it is consuming 150 to 300 g of creep feed per day for at least three consecutive days, has reached 2.5 to 3 times its birth weight, and is in good health with no signs of illness. The Merck Veterinary Manual (www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition) provides general guidance on weaning readiness.

### Should I wean gradually or abruptly?

Gradual weaning over 7 to 14 days is less stressful for kids and encourages earlier solid feed intake. The study "Effect of different milk-removal strategies at weaning on feed intake and behavior of goat kids" (Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 2020) supports gradual weaning for better feed intake and reduced stress. Abrupt weaning may be used when labor is limited or when dams need immediate rest.

### What should I feed goat kids after weaning?

Feed a starter feed with 16% to 18% crude protein free-choice for the first 2 to 4 weeks after weaning. Introduce high-quality forage gradually. Provide fresh water and a goat-specific mineral supplement at all times. The USDA Agricultural Research Service (www.ars.usda.gov) supports research on post-weaning nutrition strategies.

### How much weight should a kid gain after weaning?

A healthy kid should gain 100 to 200 g per day after weaning, depending on breed and feed quality. The study "Evaluation of growth parameters and body condition score on weaning stages of Saanen goats" (Journal of advanced veterinary and animal research, 2022) emphasizes monitoring growth parameters during the weaning period. If weight gain is less than 100 g per day, check feed intake and health status.

### What causes scours in weaned kids?

Scours can result from a sudden diet change, overeating, bacterial infection, or coccidiosis. The study "Supplementation of Lactobacillus plantarum or Macleaya cordata Extract Alleviates Oxidative Damage Induced by Weaning in the Lower Gut of Young Goats" (Animals, 2020) indicates that weaning induces oxidative stress in the gut. Reduce feed quantity, ensure clean water, and consult a veterinarian if scours persist.

### Can I wean kids earlier than 8 weeks?

Early weaning at 6 to 8 weeks is possible if kids meet weight and feed intake targets. The study "Early weaning and high feeding level in post-weaning period did not impact milk production in Alpine dairy goats" (Journal of Dairy Research, 2018) shows that early weaning with high feeding levels can be successful. However, early weaning requires careful management of starter feed and monitoring for stress.

### How does weaning affect the dam?

Weaning allows the dam to regain body condition and prepare for the next breeding or lactation. The study "The effect of type of suckling on the pre-and post-weaning lactation performance of Damascus goats and the growth rate of the kids" (Journal of Agricultural Science, 1986) shows that weaning affects dam lactation performance. Monitor the dam's body condition score and adjust her diet after weaning to support recovery.

## Related Farming Guides

- [Meat Goat Pasture And Browse Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/meat-goat-pasture-and-browse-management)
- [Raising Meat Goats From Weaning To Market](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/raising-meat-goats-from-weaning-to-market)
- [Feeding Dairy Goats By Production Stage](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/feeding-dairy-goats-by-production-stage)
- [Predator Management For Goat Farms Prevention And Documentation](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/predator-management-for-goat-farms-prevention-and-documentation)
- [Dairy Cattle Farming Nutrition Housing Health Signals And Herd Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/dairy-cattle/dairy-cattle-farming-nutrition-housing-health-signals-and-herd-management)

## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides

* [Goat Breeding Season Planning: Timing, Nutrition, and Health Checks](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/goat-breeding-season-planning)
* [Alfalfa Hay for Goats: Feeding Decisions and Mineral Context](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/alfalfa-hay-for-goats-feeding-decisions-and-mineral-context)
* [Goat Fiber Production: Cashmere and Mohair Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/goat-fiber-production-cashmere-mohair-management)


## References and Further Reading

- [www.ars.usda.gov](https://www.ars.usda.gov/)
- [www.nrcs.usda.gov](https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/)
- [www.merckvetmanual.com](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition)
- [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en). Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.
- [Animal Health and Welfare](https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). USDA National Agricultural Library.
- [Heritability and environmental influence on pre-weaning traits in Kilis goats.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36800041). Tropical animal health and production, 2023.
- [Study of genetic parameters for pre-weaning growth traits in inner Mongolia white Arbas cashmere goats.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36704705). Frontiers in [veterinary science](/blog/news/veterinary-science), 2022.
- [Association between body weight and distal gut microbes in Hainan black goats at weaning age.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36187995). Frontiers in microbiology, 2022.
- [Ages of weaning influence the gut microbiota diversity and function in Chongming white goats.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33885927). Applied microbiology and biotechnology, 2021.
- [Evaluation of growth parameters and body condition score on weaning stages of Saanen goats.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36382029). Journal of advanced veterinary and animal research, 2022.
- [Supplementation of Lactobacillus plantarum or Macleaya cordata Extract Alleviates Oxidative Damage Induced by Weaning in the Lower Gut of Young Goats.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32218197). Animals : an open access journal from MDPI, 2020.
- [Effect of different milk-removal strategies at weaning on feed intake and behavior of goat kids](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jveb.2019.10.004). Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 2020.
- [Early weaning and high feeding level in post-weaning period did not impact milk production in Alpine dairy goats](https://doi.org/10.1017/S0022029918000377). Journal of Dairy Research, 2018.
- [The effect of type of suckling on the pre-and post-weaning lactation performance of Damascus goats and the growth rate of the kids](https://doi.org/10.1017/S0021859600087189). Journal of Agricultural Science, 1986.
- [The levels of milk fatty acids and alterations of correlations between them in weaning process in damascus goats](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/85142468113). Large Animal Review, 2022.

> This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.