Effect of rearing systems on kid performance, lactation traits and profitability of shami (Damascus) goats

Abstract

To compare the growth performance of kids, lactation characteristics and profitability of Shami (Damascus) goats, thirty three 4-years old does and their 39 kids were divided into two groups: In the traditional kid rearing group, kids were reared with dams without commercial milking and in the second group does were separated from the kids during the day and milked commercially once a day (MOD). During 60 days of study, no significant differences were found between the two groups with regard to kid growth, lactation yield and lactation length of dams. However, the MOD group appeared to be more profitable because it allowed more milk to be marketed. © GSP, India.