Cashmere goat lamb management technology
The Cashmere Goat Lamb period refers to the time from birth until weaning at around four months of age. This stage is crucial for the growth and development of cashmere goats, as it lays the foundation for their future health, body weight, and cashmere production. During this phase, lambs rely primarily on their mother’s milk for nutrition, which is essential for their immune system and overall vitality. Their nutritional needs change rapidly, transitioning from colostrum and milk to solid food, making proper feeding and management vital.
**I. Cashmere Goat Lamb Rearing Techniques**
**(a) Newborn Lamb Care**
Immediately after birth, lambs should be encouraged to consume colostrum, the first milk produced by the ewe, within the first 1-3 days. Colostrum is rich in nutrients, containing 4-5 times more protein than regular milk, along with essential vitamins, minerals, and immunoglobulins that boost the lamb’s immunity. It also contains magnesium salts that help stimulate digestion and promote the passage of meconium.
If a lamb appears lifeless or cold, immediate action is required. Clear the mouth and nose of mucus, lift the head, and gently pat the chest to encourage breathing. If this doesn’t work, lay the lamb on its back and perform artificial respiration. For frozen lambs, place them near a heat source or immerse them in warm water (38-40°C) to gradually restore body temperature. In the field, holding the lamb close to your body can also help.
For lambs that refuse to nurse, finding a "nanny" sheep is ideal. These are typically ewes with fewer lambs or those who have lost their own. To increase acceptance, rub the lamb’s body with the nanny’s milk and urine before placing it with her. If no foster mother is available, artificial feeding using goat milk or commercial milk replacer is necessary. However, improper feeding can lead to digestive issues, so monitoring the lamb’s feces is crucial. A dose of E. coli vaccine at birth can also help prevent diarrhea.
**(b) Feeding Lambs**
To support rapid and healthy growth, lambs should begin supplementary feeding early. By day 10, they can be introduced to the smell of cooked grains like soybeans and corn. By day 15, they can start nibbling on fresh grass, hay, and leaves, but care must be taken not to overfeed, especially during spring when lush grass may cause diarrhea. Feedings should be regular and measured to support digestive health and overall strength.
Feeding amounts vary by age:
- Under 1 month: No more than 50 grams
- 1–2 months: About 100 grams
- Over 2 months: Gradually increase to 200–500 grams
**II. Lamb Management Practices**
**(a) Exercise**
Lambs should be allowed outdoor exercise starting at 5–7 days old, on sunny and wind-free days. This helps improve their physical condition, appetite, and resistance to disease.
**(b) Grazing**
Grazing areas should be near the flock’s shelter and of good quality. Lambs should be trained to stay close and follow commands. Avoid letting them eat dewy grass or get wet in the rain, as this can lead to illness.
**(c) Deworming**
Parasites are common in lambs. Common treatments include albendazole and levamisole. Bathing the lambs with deworming solutions is an effective method.
**(d) Poisoning Prevention**
Lambs often ingest toxic plants. Early spring grazing should be carefully monitored, and poisonous plants should be removed. If ingestion occurs, administer mung bean water and atropine for detoxification.
**(e) Weaning and Grouping**
Weaning usually occurs at 3–4 months. Two methods are used: gradual weaning, where lambs are separated during the day and reunited at night, or abrupt weaning at 4 months. After weaning, group lambs by sex, size, and strength for better management.
**III. Measures to Improve Lamb Survival Rates**
1. Avoid lambing during cold seasons; plan breeding times wisely.
2. Ensure ewes have sufficient milk supply.
3. Disinfect the lamb and ewe immediately after birth.
4. Provide artificial care, such as assisted feeding.
5. Allow lambs to graze briefly with their mothers in the early days.
6. Encourage sunbathing to strengthen their bodies.
7. Administer cod liver oil to support bone and immune development.
8. Prevent overcrowding and keep lambs warm.
9. For weak lambs, give glucose and calcium chloride intravenously.
10. Soak weak lambs in warm water, dry them, and feed colostrum.
Proper care during the lambing period ensures stronger, healthier cashmere goats that will thrive in the long term.
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