Livestock
The right nutrition provided at the right stage is essential to the profitable production of sheep and goats. It is needed to produce a high-percentage crop, to wean heavy animals, and to develop satisfactory flock replacements. The ideal program also is efficient and economical, and minimizes nutrition-related problems.
To succeed, producers should know basic animal nutrition, be familiar with common nutrition terms, and understand nutritional requirements at different stages of life. This begins with knowing the essential nutrients these small ruminants need—energy (fat and carbohydrates), protein, vitamins, minerals, water, and fiber—and their roles in growth, production, and reproduction
Essential Nutrients and Their Roles
Energy
The best sources of energy for small ruminants are the most plentiful feeds available. These are usually pastures and browses, hay, and grains. Sheep and goats often lack nutrients, however, due to poor-quality pastures and roughage or inadequate amounts of feed. Because of this, energy is the most common limiting factor in small ruminant nutrition. Deficiency will result in decreased production, reproductive failure, increased mortality, and increased susceptibility to diseases and parasites.
It is essential to evaluate the efficiency and overall performance of a feed or ration—referred to as the total digestible nutrients (TDN). TDN is a broad term used to express the energy value of a feed or ration. The percentage of TDN is the most widely used method of evaluating feed for energy. As a rule, the greater the TDN is in a ration, the greater the rate of gain will be in the animal.
Protein
Protein is used to repair old tissues and to build new tissues. In small ruminants, the quantity of protein is more important than the quality. Protein deficiency is particularly detrimental to the young animal, so an adequate amount must be supplied if rapid growth and high production are to be obtained. On the other hand, excessive feeding is expensive. When protein supplementation is the primary objective, the cost per pound of protein is the most important consideration.
Minerals
In comparison to energy and protein, minerals are necessary in smaller quantities (macro and micro). Essential macrominerals (required at 0.1% or more in diet) for sheep and goats are calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, chloride, sulfur, and magnesium. Essential microminerals (required in parts per million) include manganese, iron, copper, cobalt, zinc, iodine, selenium, and molybdenum. The primary sources of these minerals are: diet, mineral supplements (loose and block), and, in some areas, the water supply.
Calcium is a necessary constituent of the bones and teeth and is essential for regular heart action and muscular activity. A calcium deficiency results in poor growth and bone development in growing animals.
Phosphorus is an essential part of blood and of all cells in the body. It is involved in chemical reactions that release energy in the body. Bones and teeth contain relatively large amounts of phosphorus as well as calcium. Both calcium and phosphorus must be present in the ration in the proper proportions.
Required microminerals (minerals needed in smaller quantities) include iodine, copper, iron, manganese, zinc, molybdenum, cobalt, selenium, and fluoride. These are found in the diet, mineral supplements, and, in some areas, the water supply. Soil quality and pH can be a factor in the availability of macro- and microminerals absorbed by vegetation.
Vitamins
Vitamins are compounds necessary for normal growth, health, and reproduction. Small ruminants require many vitamins, but their dietary requirements in this area are relatively simple. This is due to the nature of the feeds they ordinarily consume and the synthesis of vitamins in the rumen.
Water
Water functions in the animal body in a number of ways:
- helps to digest food
- regulates body temperature
- lubricates tissue
- transports waste from the body
Fiber
Adequate fiber and/or quality forage promotes good health and better performance. Fiber adds bulk to the diet and keeps the rumen properly functioning, as it increases rumination and salivation. The rumen of sheep and goats functions best when the daily diet includes a high concentration of slowly degradable fiber ingredients known as roughage. Extended chewing of the fibrous material helps to keep the acidity in the rumen within a range that benefits the fiber-digesting microbes. This is commonly known as the cud-chewing process.
The digestive interaction of fiber stimulates the muscles in the wall of the rumen to contract and expand, which essentially stirs up the material in the rumen. These forage products include any type of hay, silage, or fresh forage. Cottonseed and soybean hulls often are utilized as a form of fiber in feed rations.
Implementing a Nutritional Program
To meet the nutritional requirements of each animal at its particular stage of life, producers must combine feed ingredients into the least costly but most efficient ration. The following tables provide estimates of the daily nutrient needs of sheep and goats.
Table 1. Daily Nutrient Requirements of Sheep (Per Animal) - Lambs
aTo convert dry matter to an as-fed basis, divide dry matter values by the percentage of dry matter in the particular feed.
bOne pound TDN (total digestible nutrients) = 0.91 Mcal DE (digestible energy)
cThese are the maximum weight gains expected.
dThese lambs are intended for breeding, so maximum weight gains and finish are of secondary importance.
eValues are applicable for ewes in moderate condition. Fat ewes should be fed according to the next lower weight category, and thin ewes at the next higher weight category. Once the desired or moderate weight condition is attained, use that weight category through all production stages.
| Body Weight (lb.) | Avg. Daily Gain (lb.) | Dry Matter (lb./heada) | % Body Weight | Total Protein (lb.) | TDNb | Calcium (lb.) | Phosphorous (lb.) | Vitamin A (IU) | Vitamin E (IU) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Early-weaned Lambs, Moderate Growth Potential c | |||||||||
| 22 | 0.44 | 1.1 | 5.0 | 0.38 | 0.9 | 0.008 | 0.004 | 470 | 10 |
| 44 | 0.55 | 2.2 | 5.0 | 0.37 | 1.8 | 0.012 | 0.005 | 940 | 20 |
| 66 | 0.66 | 2.9 | 4.3 | 0.42 | 2.2 | 0.015 | 0.007 | 1410 | 20 |
| 88 | 0.76 | 3.3 | 3.8 | 0.44 | 2.6 | 0.017 | 0.008 | 1880 | 22 |
| 110 | 0.66 | 3.3 | 3.0 | 0.40 | 2.6 | 0.015 | 0.008 | 2350 | 22 |
| Early-weaned Lambs, Rapid Growth Potentialc | |||||||||
| 22 | 0.55 | 1.3 | 6.0 | 0.35 | 1.1 | 0.011 | 0.005 | 470 | 12 |
| 44 | 0.66 | 2.6 | 6.0 | 0.45 | 2.0 | 0.014 | 0.006 | 940 | 24 |
| 66 | 0.72 | 3.1 | 4.7 | 0.48 | 2.4 | 0.016 | 0.007 | 1410 | 21 |
| 88 | 0.88 | 3.3 | 3.8 | 0.51 | 2.5 | 0.019 | 0.009 | 1880 | 22 |
| 110 | 0.94 | 3.7 | 3.4 | 0.53 | 2.8 | 0.021 | 0.015 | 2350 | 25 |
| 132 | 0.77 | 3.7 | 2.8 | 0.53 | 2.8 | 0.018 | 0.010 | 2820 | 25 |
| Lambs Finishing, Age 4–7 Monthsc | |||||||||
| 66 | 0.65 | 2.9 | 4.3 | 0.42 | 2.1 | 0.014 | 0.007 | 1410 | 20 |
| 88 | 0.60 | 3.5 | 4.0 | 0.41 | 2.7 | 0.014 | 0.007 | 1880 | 24 |
| 110 | 0.45 | 3.5 | 3.2 | 0.35 | 2.7 | 0.012 | 0.007 | 2350 | 24 |
| Replacement Ewe Lambsd | |||||||||
| 66 | 0.50 | 2.6 | 4.0 | 0.41 | 1.7 | 0.014 | 0.006 | 1410 | 18 |
| 88 | 0.40 | 3.1 | 3.5 | 0.39 | 2.0 | 0.013 | 0.006 | 1880 | 21 |
| 110 | 0.26 | 3.3 | 3.0 | 0.30 | 1.9 | 0.011 | 0.005 | 2350 | 22 |
| 132 | 0.22 | 3.3 | 2.5 | 0.30 | 1.9 | 0.010 | 0.005 | 2820 | 22 |
| 154 | 0.22 | 3.3 | 2.1 | 0.29 | 1.9 | 0.010 | 0.006 | 3290 | 22 |
| Replacement Ram Lambsd | |||||||||
| 88 | 0.73 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 0.54 | 2.5 | 0.017 | 0.008 | 1880 | 24 |
| 132 | 0.70 | 5.3 | 4.0 | 0.58 | 3.4 | 0.018 | 0.009 | 2820 | 26 |
| 176 | 0.64 | 6.2 | 3.5 | 0.59 | 3.9 | 0.019 | 0.010 | 3760 | 28 |
| 220 | 0.55 | 6.6 | 3.0 | 0.58 | 4.2 | 0.018 | 0.010 | 4700 | 30 |
Table 1. Daily Nutrient Requirements of Sheep (Per Animal) - Ewes
aTo convert dry matter to an as-fed basis, divide dry matter values by the percentage of dry matter in the particular feed.
bOne pound TDN (total digestible nutrients) = 0.91 Mcal DE (digestible energy)
cThese are the maximum weight gains expected.
dThese lambs are intended for breeding, so maximum weight gains and finish are of secondary importance.
eValues are applicable for ewes in moderate condition. Fat ewes should be fed according to the next lower weight category, and thin ewes at the next higher weight category. Once the desired or moderate weight condition is attained, use that weight category through all production stages.
| Body Weight (lb.) | Avg. Daily Gain (lb.) | Dry Matter (lb./heada) | % Body Weight | Total Protein (lb.) | TDNb | Calcium (lb.) | Phosphorous (lb.) | Vitamin A (IU) | Vitamin E (IU) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maintenance | |||||||||
| 110 | 0.02 | 2.2 | 2.0 | 0.21 | 1.2 | 0.004 | 0.004 | 2350 | 15 |
| 132 | 0.02 | 2.4 | 1.8 | 0.23 | 1.3 | 0.005 | 0.005 | 2820 | 16 |
| 154 | 0.02 | 2.6 | 1.7 | 0.25 | 1.5 | 0.005 | 0.005 | 3290 | 18 |
| 176 | 0.02 | 2.9 | 1.6 | 0.27 | 1.6 | 0.006 | 0.006 | 3760 | 20 |
| 198 | 0.02 | 3.1 | 1.5 | 0.29 | 1.7 | 0.006 | 0.006 | 4230 | 21 |
| Flushing: 2 Weeks Prebreeding and First 3 Weeks of Breeding | |||||||||
| 110 | 0.22 | 3.5 | 3.2 | 0.33 | 2.1 | 0.012 | 0.006 | 2350 | 24 |
| 132 | 0.22 | 3.7 | 2.8 | 0.34 | 2.2 | 0.012 | 0.006 | 2820 | 26 |
| 154 | 0.22 | 4.0 | 2.6 | 0.36 | 2.3 | 0.012 | 0.007 | 3290 | 27 |
| 176 | 0.22 | 4.2 | 2.4 | 0.38 | 2.5 | 0.013 | 0.007 | 3760 | 28 |
| 198 | 0.22 | 4.4 | 2.2 | 0.39 | 2.6 | 0.013 | 0.008 | 4230 | 30 |
| Nonlactating, First 15 Weeks of Gestation | |||||||||
| 110 | 0.07 | 2.6 | 2.4 | 0.25 | 1.5 | 0.006 | 0.005 | 2350 | 18 |
| 132 | 0.07 | 2.9 | 2.2 | 0.27 | 1.6 | 0.007 | 0.005 | 2820 | 20 |
| 154 | 0.07 | 3.1 | 2.0 | 0.29 | 1.7 | 0.008 | 0.006 | 3290 | 21 |
| 176 | 0.07 | 3.3 | 1.9 | 0.31 | 1.8 | 0.008 | 0.007 | 3760 | 22 |
| 198 | 0.07 | 3.5 | 1.8 | 0.33 | 1.9 | 0.009 | 0.008 | 4230 | 24 |
| Last 4 Weeks of Gestation (130% - 150% Lambing Rate Expected) | |||||||||
| 110 | 0.40 | 3.5 | 3.2 | 0.38 | 2.1 | 0.013 | 0.010 | 4250 | 24 |
| 132 | 0.40 | 3.7 | 2.8 | 0.40 | 2.2 | 0.013 | 0.011 | 5100 | 26 |
| 154 | 0.40 | 4.0 | 2.6 | 0.42 | 2.3 | 0.014 | 0.012 | 5960 | 27 |
| 176 | 0.40 | 4.2 | 2.4 | 0.44 | 2.4 | 0.014 | 0.013 | 6800 | 28 |
| 198 | 0.40 | 4.4 | 2.2 | 0.47 | 2.5 | 0.014 | 0.014 | 7650 | 30 |
| Last 4 Weeks of Gestation (180% – 225% Lambing Rate Expected) | |||||||||
| 110 | 0.50 | 3.7 | 3.4 | 0.43 | 2.4 | 0.014 | 0.007 | 4250 | 26 |
| 132 | 0.50 | 4.0 | 3.0 | 0.45 | 2.6 | 0.015 | 0.008 | 5100 | 27 |
| 154 | 0.50 | 4.2 | 2.7 | 0.47 | 2.8 | 0.017 | 0.010 | 5950 | 28 |
| 176 | 0.50 | 4.4 | 2.5 | 0.49 | 2.9 | 0.018 | 0.013 | 6800 | 30 |
| 198 | 0.50 | 4.6 | 2.3 | 0.51 | 3.0 | 0.020 | 0.014 | 7650 | 32 |
| First 6–8 Weeks of Lactation, Suckling Singles | |||||||||
| 110 | -0.06 | 4.6 | 4.2 | 0.67 | 3.0 | 0.020 | 0.013 | 4250 | 32 |
| 132 | -0.06 | 5.1 | 3.9 | 0.70 | 3.3 | 0.020 | 0.014 | 5100 | 34 |
| 154 | -0.06 | 5.5 | 3.6 | 0.73 | 3.6 | 0.020 | 0.015 | 5950 | 38 |
| 176 | -0.06 | 5.7 | 3.2 | 0.76 | 3.7 | 0.021 | 0.016 | 6800 | 39 |
| 198 | -0.06 | 5.9 | 3.0 | 0.78 | 3.8 | 0.021 | 0.017 | 7650 | 40 |
| First 6–8 Weeks of Lactation, Suckling Twins | |||||||||
| 110 | -0.13 | 5.3 | 4.8 | 0.86 | 3.4 | 0.023 | 0.016 | 5000 | 36 |
| 132 | -0.13 | 5.7 | 4.3 | 0.89 | 3.7 | 0.023 | 0.017 | 6000 | 39 |
| 154 | -0.13 | 6.2 | 4.0 | 0.92 | 4.0 | 0.024 | 0.018 | 7000 | 42 |
| 176 | -0.13 | 6.6 | 3.8 | 0.96 | 4.3 | 0.025 | 0.019 | 8000 | 45 |
| 198 | -0.13 | 7.0 | 3.6 | 0.99 | 4.6 | 0.025 | 0.020 | 9000 | 48 |
| Last 4–6 Weeks of Lactation, Suckling Singles | |||||||||
| 110 | 0.10 | 3.5 | 3.2 | 0.38 | 2.1 | 0.013 | 0.010 | 4250 | 24 |
| 132 | 0.10 | 3.7 | 2.8 | 0.40 | 2.2 | 0.013 | 0.011 | 5100 | 26 |
| 154 | 0.10 | 4.0 | 2.6 | 0.42 | 2.3 | 0.014 | 0.012 | 5960 | 27 |
| 176 | 0.10 | 4.2 | 2.4 | 0.44 | 2.4 | 0.014 | 0.013 | 6800 | 28 |
| 198 | 0.10 | 4.4 | 2.2 | 0.47 | 2.5 | 0.014 | 0.014 | 7650 | 30 |
| Last 4–6 Weeks of Lactation, Suckling Twins | |||||||||
| 110 | 0.20 | 4.6 | 4.2 | 0.67 | 3.0 | 0.020 | 0.013 | 4250 | 32 |
| 132 | 0.20 | 5.1 | 3.8 | 0.70 | 3.3 | 0.020 | 0.014 | 5100 | 34 |
| 154 | 0.20 | 5.5 | 3.6 | 0.73 | 3.6 | 0.020 | 0.015 | 5950 | 38 |
| 176 | 0.20 | 5.7 | 3.2 | 0.76 | 3.7 | 0.021 | 0.016 | 6800 | 39 |
| 198 | 0.20 | 5.9 | 3.0 | 0.78 | 3.8 | 0.021 | 0.017 | 7650 | 40 |
Table 1. Daily Nutrient Requirements of Sheep (Per Animal) - Ewe Lambs
aTo convert dry matter to an as-fed basis, divide dry matter values by the percentage of dry matter in the particular feed.
bOne pound TDN (total digestible nutrients) = 0.91 Mcal DE (digestible energy)
cThese are the maximum weight gains expected.
dThese lambs are intended for breeding, so maximum weight gains and finish are of secondary importance.
eValues are applicable for ewes in moderate condition. Fat ewes should be fed according to the next lower weight category, and thin ewes at the next higher weight category. Once the desired or moderate weight condition is attained, use that weight category through all production stages.
| Body Weight (lb.) | Avg. Daily Gain (lb.) | Dry Matter (lb./heada) | % Body Weight | Total Protein (lb.) | TDNb | Calcium (lb.) | Phosphorous (lb.) | Vitamin A (IU) | Vitamin E (IU) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nonlactating, First 15 Weeks of Gestation | |||||||||
| 88 | 0.35 | 3.1 | 3.5 | 0.34 | 1.8 | 0.012 | 0.007 | 1880 | 21 |
| 110 | 0.30 | 3.3 | 3.0 | 0.35 | 1.9 | 0.011 | 0.007 | 2350 | 22 |
| 132 | 0.30 | 3.5 | 2.7 | 0.35 | 2.0 | 0.012 | 0.007 | 2820 | 24 |
| 154 | 0.28 | 3.7 | 2.4 | 0.36 | 2.2 | 0.012 | 0.008 | 3290 | 26 |
| Last 4 Weeks of Gestation (100% –120% Lambing Rate Expected) | |||||||||
| 88 | 0.40 | 3.3 | 3.8 | 0.41 | 2.1 | 0.014 | 0.007 | 3400 | 22 |
| 110 | 0.35 | 3.5 | 3.2 | 0.42 | 2.2 | 0.014 | 0.007 | 4250 | 24 |
| 132 | 0.35 | 3.7 | 2.8 | 0.42 | 2.4 | 0.014 | 0.008 | 5100 | 26 |
| 154 | 0.33 | 4.0 | 2.6 | 0.43 | 2.5 | 0.015 | 0.009 | 5950 | 27 |
| Last 4 Weeks of Gestation (130% –175% Lambing Rate Expected) | |||||||||
| 88 | 0.50 | 3.3 | 3.8 | 0.44 | 2.2 | 0.016 | 0.008 | 3400 | 22 |
| 110 | 0.50 | 3.5 | 3.2 | 0.45 | 2.3 | 0.017 | 0.008 | 4250 | 24 |
| 132 | 0.50 | 3.7 | 2.8 | 0.46 | 2.5 | 0.018 | 0.009 | 5100 | 26 |
| 154 | 0.47 | 4.0 | 2.6 | 0.46 | 2.5 | 0.018 | 0.010 | 5960 | 27 |
| First 6–8 Weeks of Lactation, Suckling Singles (Wean by 8 Weeks) | |||||||||
| 88 | -0.11 | 3.7 | 4.2 | 0.56 | 2.5 | 0.013 | 0.009 | 3400 | 26 |
| 110 | -0.11 | 4.6 | 4.2 | 0.62 | 3.1 | 0.014 | 0.010 | 4250 | 32 |
| 132 | -0.11 | 5.1 | 3.8 | 0.65 | 3.4 | 0.015 | 0.011 | 5100 | 34 |
| 154 | -0.11 | 5.5 | 3.6 | 0.68 | 3.6 | 0.016 | 0.012 | 5450 | 38 |
| First 6–8 Weeks of Lactation, Suckling Twins (Wean by 8 Weeks) | |||||||||
| 88 | -0.22 | 4.6 | 5.2 | 0.67 | 3.2 | 0.018 | 0.012 | 4000 | 32 |
| 110 | -0.22 | 5.1 | 4.6 | 0.71 | 3.5 | 0.019 | 0.011 | 5000 | 34 |
| 132 | -0.22 | 5.5 | 4.2 | 0.74 | 3.8 | 0.020 | 0.014 | 6000 | 38 |
| 154 | -0.22 | 6.0 | 3.9 | 0.77 | 4.1 | 0.020 | 0.015 | 7000 | 40 |
Table 2. Required Nutrient Concentrations of Sheep Rations - Lambs
Source: National Research Council, 2007.
aValues in table 2 are calculated from the daily requirements in table 1 ÷ DM intake.
| Body Weight (lb.) | Avg. Daily Gain (lb.) | Dry Matter (lb./heada) | % Body Weight | Total Protein (lb.) | TDNb (lb.) | Calcium (lb.) | Phosphorous (lb.) | Vitamin A (IU) | Vitamin E (IU) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Early-weaned Lambs, Moderate Growth Potential | |||||||||
| 22 | 0.44 | 1.1 | 5.0 | 34.5 | 81.8 | 73 | 36 | 427 | 9 |
| 44 | 0.55 | 2.2 | 5.0 | 16.8 | 81.8 | 55 | 23 | 427 | 9 |
| 66 | 0.66 | 2.9 | 4.3 | 14.5 | 75.8 | 52 | 24 | 486 | 7 |
| 88 | 0.76 | 3.3 | 3.8 | 13.3 | 78.8 | 52 | 24 | 570 | 7 |
| 110 | 0.66 | 3.3 | 3.0 | 12.1 | 78.8 | 45 | 24 | 712 | 7 |
| Early-weaned Lambs, Rapid Growth Potential | |||||||||
| 22 | 0.55 | 1.3 | 6.0 | 27.0 | 84.6 | 85 | 38 | 361 | 9 |
| 44 | 0.66 | 2.6 | 6.0 | 17.3 | 76.9 | 54 | 23 | 361 | 9 |
| 66 | 0.72 | 3.1 | 4.7 | 15.5 | 77.4 | 52 | 23 | 455 | 7 |
| 88 | 0.88 | 3.3 | 3.8 | 15.4 | 75.8 | 58 | 27 | 570 | 7 |
| 110 | 0.94 | 3.7 | 3.4 | 14.3 | 75.7 | 57 | 30 | 635 | 7 |
| 132 | 0.77 | 3.7 | 2.8 | 14.3 | 75.7 | 49 | 27 | 762 | 7 |
| Lambs Finishing, Age 4–7 Months | |||||||||
| 66 | 0.65 | 2.9 | 4.3 | 14.5 | 72.4 | 48 | 24 | 486 | 7 |
| 88 | 0.60 | 3.5 | 4.0 | 11.7 | 77.1 | 40 | 20 | 537 | 7 |
| 110 | 0.45 | 3.5 | 3.2 | 10.0 | 77.1 | 34 | 20 | 671 | 7 |
| Replacement Ewe Lambs | |||||||||
| 66 | 0.50 | 2.6 | 4.0 | 15.8 | 65.4 | 54 | 23 | 542 | 7 |
| 88 | 0.40 | 3.1 | 3.5 | 12.6 | 64.5 | 42 | 19 | 606 | 7 |
| 110 | 0.26 | 3.3 | 3.0 | 9.1 | 57.6 | 33 | 15 | 712 | 7 |
| 132 | 0.22 | 3.3 | 2.5 | 9.1 | 57.6 | 30 | 15 | 854 | 7 |
| 154 | 0.22 | 3.3 | 2.1 | 8.8 | 57.6 | 30 | 18 | 997 | 7 |
| Replacement Ram Lambs | |||||||||
| 88 | 0.73 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 13.5 | 62.5 | 0.43 | 0.20 | 470 | 6 |
| 132 | 0.70 | 5.3 | 4.0 | 11.0 | 64.1 | 0.34 | 0.17 | 532 | 5 |
| 176 | 0.64 | 6.2 | 3.5 | 9.5 | 62.9 | 0.31 | 0.16 | 606 | 5 |
| 220 | 0.55 | 6.6 | 3.0 | 8.8 | 63.6 | 0.27 | 0.15 | 712 | 5 |
Table 2. Required Nutrient Concentrations of Sheep Rations - Ewe Lambs
Source: National Research Council, 2007.
aValues in table 2 are calculated from the daily requirements in table 1 ÷ DM intake.
| Body Weight (lb.) | Avg. Daily Gain (lb.) | Dry Matter (lb./heada) | % Body Weight | Total Protein (lb.) | TDNb (lb.) | Calcium (lb.) | Phosphorous (lb.) | Vitamin A (IU) | Vitamin E (IU) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maintenance | |||||||||
| 110 | 0.02 | 2.2 | 2.0 | 9.5 | 54.5 | 0.18 | 0.18 | 1068 | 7 |
| 132 | 0.02 | 2.4 | 1.8 | 9.5 | 54.2 | 0.21 | 0.21 | 1175 | 7 |
| 154 | 0.02 | 2.6 | 1.7 | 9.6 | 57.7 | 0.19 | 0.19 | 1265 | 7 |
| 176 | 0.02 | 2.9 | 1.6 | 9.3 | 55.2 | 0.21 | 0.21 | 1296 | 7 |
| 198 | 0.02 | 3.1 | 1.5 | 9.3 | 54.8 | 0.21 | 0.21 | 1364 | 7 |
| Flushing: 2 Weeks Prebreeding and First 3 Weeks of Breeding | |||||||||
| 110 | 0.22 | 3.5 | 3.2 | 9.4 | 60.0 | 0.34 | 0.17 | 671 | 7 |
| 132 | 0.22 | 3.7 | 2.8 | 9.2 | 59.5 | 0.32 | 0.16 | 762 | 7 |
| 154 | 0.22 | 4.0 | 2.6 | 9.0 | 57.5 | 0.30 | 0.18 | 822 | 7 |
| 176 | 0.22 | 4.2 | 2.4 | 9.1 | 59.5 | 0.31 | 0.17 | 895 | 7 |
| 198 | 0.22 | 4.4 | 2.2 | 8.9 | 59.1 | 0.30 | 0.18 | 961 | 7 |
| Nonlactating, First 15 Weeks of Gestation | |||||||||
| 110 | 0.07 | 2.6 | 2.4 | 9.6 | 57.7 | 0.23 | 0.19 | 904 | 7 |
| 132 | 0.07 | 2.9 | 2.2 | 9.3 | 55.2 | 0.24 | 0.17 | 972 | 7 |
| 154 | 0.07 | 3.1 | 2.0 | 9.3 | 54.8 | 0.26 | 0.19 | 1061 | 7 |
| 176 | 0.07 | 3.3 | 1.9 | 9.4 | 54.5 | 0.24 | 0.21 | 1139 | 7 |
| 198 | 0.07 | 3.5 | 1.8 | 9.4 | 54.3 | 0.26 | 0.23 | 1208 | 7 |
| Last 4 Weeks of Gestation (130% –150% Lambing Rate Expected) | |||||||||
| 110 | 0.40 | 3.5 | 3.2 | 10.9 | 60.0 | 0.37 | 0.29 | 1214 | 7 |
| 132 | 0.40 | 3.7 | 2.8 | 10.8 | 59.5 | 0.35 | 0.30 | 1378 | 7 |
| 154 | 0.40 | 4.0 | 2.6 | 10.5 | 57.5 | 0.35 | 0.30 | 1490 | 7 |
| 176 | 0.40 | 4.2 | 2.4 | 10.5 | 57.1 | 0.33 | 0.31 | 1619 | 7 |
| 198 | 0.40 | 4.4 | 2.2 | 10.7 | 56.8 | 0.32 | 0.32 | 1738 | 7 |
| Last 4 Weeks of Gestation (180%–225% Lambing Rate Expected) | |||||||||
| 110 | 0.50 | 3.7 | 3.4 | 11.6 | 64.8 | 0.38 | 0.19 | 1148 | 7 |
| 132 | 0.50 | 4.0 | 3.0 | 11.2 | 65.0 | 0.38 | 0.20 | 1275 | 7 |
| 154 | 0.50 | 4.2 | 2.7 | 11.2 | 66.7 | 0.40 | 0.24 | 1416 | 7 |
| 176 | 0.50 | 4.4 | 2.5 | 11.1 | 65.9 | 0.41 | 0.30 | 1545 | 7 |
| 198 | 0.50 | 4.6 | 2.3 | 11.1 | 65.2 | 0.43 | 0.30 | 1663 | 7 |
| First 6–8 Weeks of Lactation, Suckling Singles | |||||||||
| 110 | -0.06 | 4.6 | 4.2 | 14.6 | 65.2 | 0.43 | 0.28 | 923 | 7 |
| 132 | -0.06 | 5.1 | 3.8 | 13.7 | 64.7 | 0.39 | 0.27 | 1000 | 7 |
| 154 | -0.06 | 5.5 | 3.6 | 13.3 | 65.5 | 0.36 | 0.27 | 1082 | 7 |
| 176 | -0.06 | 5.7 | 3.2 | 13.3 | 64.9 | 0.37 | 0.28 | 1193 | 7 |
| 198 | -0.06 | 5.9 | 3.0 | 13.2 | 64.4 | 0.36 | 0.29 | 1296 | 7 |
| First 6–8 Weeks of Lactation, Suckling Twins | |||||||||
| 110 | -0.13 | 5.3 | 4.8 | 16.2 | 64.1 | 0.43 | 0.30 | 943 | 7 |
| 132 | -0.13 | 5.7 | 4.3 | 15.6 | 64.9 | 0.40 | 0.30 | 1052 | 7 |
| 154 | -0.13 | 6.2 | 4.0 | 14.8 | 64.5 | 0.39 | 0.29 | 1129 | 7 |
| 176 | -0.13 | 6.6 | 3.8 | 14.5 | 65.1 | 0.38 | 0.29 | 1212 | 7 |
| 198 | -0.13 | 7.0 | 3.6 | 14.1 | 65.7 | 0.36 | 0.29 | 1285 | 7 |
| Last 4–6 Weeks of Lactation, Suckling Singles | |||||||||
| 110 | 0.10 | 3.5 | 3.2 | 10.9 | 60.0 | 0.37 | 0.29 | 1214 | 7 |
| 132 | 0.10 | 3.7 | 2.8 | 10.8 | 59.5 | 0.35 | 0.30 | 1378 | 7 |
| 154 | 0.10 | 4.0 | 2.6 | 10.5 | 57.5 | 0.35 | 0.30 | 1490 | 7 |
| 176 | 0.10 | 4.2 | 2.4 | 10.5 | 57.1 | 0.33 | 0.31 | 1619 | 7 |
| 198 | 0.10 | 4.4 | 2.2 | 10.7 | 56.8 | 0.32 | 0.32 | 1738 | 7 |
| Last 4–6 Weeks of Lactation, Suckling Twins | |||||||||
| 110 | 0.20 | 4.6 | 4.2 | 14.6 | 65.2 | 0.43 | 0.28 | 924 | 7 |
| 132 | 0.20 | 5.1 | 3.8 | 13.7 | 64.7 | 0.39 | 0.27 | 1000 | 7 |
| 154 | 0.20 | 5.5 | 3.6 | 13.3 | 65.5 | 0.36 | 0.27 | 1082 | 7 |
| 176 | 0.20 | 5.7 | 3.2 | 13.3 | 64.9 | 0.37 | 0.28 | 1193 | 7 |
| 198 | 0.20 | 5.9 | 3.0 | 13.2 | 64.4 | 0.36 | 0.29 | 1296 | 7 |
| Nonlactating, First 15 Weeks of Gestation | |||||||||
| 88 | 0.35 | 3.1 | 3.5 | 11.0 | 58.0 | 0.39 | 0.23 | 606 | 7 |
| 110 | 0.30 | 3.3 | 3.0 | 10.6 | 57.6 | 0.33 | 0.21 | 712 | 7 |
| 132 | 0.30 | 3.5 | 2.7 | 10.0 | 57.0 | 0.34 | 0.20 | 806 | 7 |
| 154 | 0.28 | 3.7 | 2.4 | 9.7 | 59.5 | 0.32 | 0.22 | 889 | 7 |
| Last 4 Weeks of Gestation (100%–120% Lambing Rate Expected) | |||||||||
| 88 | 0.40 | 3.3 | 3.8 | 12.4 | 63.6 | 0.42 | 0.21 | 1030 | 7 |
| 110 | 0.35 | 3.5 | 3.2 | 12.0 | 62.9 | 0.40 | 0.20 | 1214 | 7 |
| 132 | 0.35 | 3.7 | 2.8 | 11.3 | 64.9 | 0.38 | 0.22 | 1378 | 7 |
| 154 | 0.33 | 4.0 | 2.6 | 10.7 | 62.5 | 0.38 | 0.23 | 1487 | 7 |
| Last 4 Weeks of Gestation (130%–175% Lambing Rate Expected) | |||||||||
| 88 | 0.50 | 3.3 | 3.8 | 13.3 | 66.7 | 0.48 | 0.24 | 1030 | 7 |
| 110 | 0.50 | 3.5 | 3.2 | 12.9 | 65.7 | 0.49 | 0.23 | 1214 | 7 |
| 132 | 0.50 | 3.7 | 2.8 | 12.4 | 67.5 | 0.49 | 0.24 | 1378 | 7 |
| 154 | 0.47 | 4.0 | 2.6 | 11.5 | 62.5 | 0.45 | 0.25 | 1490 | 7 |
| First 6–8 Weeks of Lactation, Suckling Singles (Wean by 8 Weeks) | |||||||||
| 88 | -0.11 | 3.7 | 4.2 | 15.1 | 67.5 | 0.35 | 0.24 | 919 | 7 |
| 110 | -0.11 | 4.6 | 4.2 | 13.5 | 67.4 | 0.30 | 0.22 | 924 | 7 |
| 132 | -0.11 | 5.1 | 3.8 | 12.7 | 66.6 | 0.29 | 0.22 | 1000 | 7 |
| 154 | -0.11 | 5.5 | 3.6 | 12.4 | 65.4 | 0.29 | 0.22 | 991 | 7 |
| First 6–8 Weeks of Lactation, Suckling Twins (Wean by 8 Weeks) | |||||||||
| 88 | -0.22 | 4.6 | 5.2 | 14.5 | 69.5 | 0.39 | 0.26 | 869 | |
| 110 | -0.22 | 5.1 | 4.6 | 13.9 | 68.6 | 0.37 | 0.20 | 980 | |
| 132 | -0.22 | 5.5 | 4.2 | 13.4 | 69.1 | 0.36 | 0.25 | 1091 | |
| 154 | -0.22 | 6.0 | 3.9 | 12.8 | 68.3 | 0.33 | 0.25 | 1166 |
Table 3. Daily Nutrient Requirements of Goats (Per Animal)
Source: National Research Council, 2007.
a To convert dry matter to an as-fed basis, divide dry matter values by the percentage of dry matter in the particular feed.
bOne pound TDN (total digestible nutrients) = 0.91 Mcal DE (digestible energy)
cRequirements in addition to those for maintenance
d Annual fleece yield (lb)
| Body Weight (lb.) | Dry Matter (lb./heada) | % Body Weight | Total Protein (lb.) | TDNb (lb.) | Calcium (lb.) | Phosphorous (lb.) | Vitamin A (IU) | Vitamin E (IU) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maintenance | ||||||||
| 22 | 0.63 | 2.80 | 0.05 | 0.35 | 0.002 | 0.002 | 400 | 84 |
| 45 | 1.08 | 2.40 | 0.08 | 0.59 | 0.002 | 0.002 | 700 | 144 |
| 67 | 1.46 | 2.20 | 0.11 | 0.80 | 0.004 | 0.003 | 900 | 195 |
| 90 | 1.81 | 2.03 | 0.14 | 0.99 | 0.004 | 0.003 | 1200 | 243 |
| 112 | 2.13 | 1.90 | 0.17 | 1.17 | 0.007 | 0.005 | 1400 | 285 |
| 134 | 2.44 | 1.82 | 0.19 | 1.34 | 0.007 | 0.005 | 1600 | 327 |
| 157 | 2.76 | 1.80 | 0.21 | 1.50 | 0.009 | 0.006 | 1800 | 369 |
| 179 | 3.05 | 1.70 | 0.23 | 1.66 | 0.009 | 0.006 | 2000 | 408 |
| 202 | 3.32 | 1.64 | 0.26 | 1.81 | 0.009 | 0.006 | 2200 | 444 |
| 224 | 3.58 | 1.60 | 0.28 | 1.96 | 0.011 | 0.008 | 2400 | 480 |
| 132 | 3.7 | 2.8 | 12.4 | 67.5 | 0.49 | 0.24 | 1378 | 7 |
| Additional Requirements for Late Pregnancy (All Goats)c | ||||||||
| 1.56 | 0.18 | 0.87 | 0.004 | 0.003 | 1400 | 213 | ||
| Additional Requirements for Growth: Weight Gain at 0.11 Lb Per Day (All Goatsc) | ||||||||
| 0.40 | 0.03 | 0.22 | 0.002 | 0.002 | 300 | 54 | ||
| Additional Requirements for Growth: Weight Gain at 0.22 Lb Per Day (All Goatsc) | ||||||||
| 0.79 | 0.06 | 0.44 | 0.002 | 0.002 | 500 | 108 | ||
| Additional Requirements for Growth: Weight Gain at 0.33 Lb Per Day (All Goatsc) | ||||||||
| 1.19 | 0.09 | 0.66 | 0.004 | 0.003 | 800 | 162 | ||
| Additional Requirements for Milk Production Per Pound at Different Fat Percentages (% Fat) | ||||||||
| 3 | 0.13 | 0.73 | 0.004 | 0.003 | 3800 | 760 | ||
| 3 | 0.14 | 0.74 | 0.004 | 0.003 | 3800 | 760 | ||
| 4 | 0.15 | 0.75 | 0.004 | 0.003 | 3800 | 760 | ||
| 4 | 0.16 | 0.76 | 0.007 | 0.005 | 3800 | 760 | ||
| 5 | 0.17 | 0.77 | 0.007 | 0.005 | 3800 | 760 | ||
| 5 | 0.18 | 0.78 | 0.007 | 0.005 | 3800 | 760 | ||
| Additional Requirements for Mohair Production by Angora at Different Production Levels (Lb) | ||||||||
| 4d | 0.02 | 0.04 | ||||||
| 9d | 0.04 | 0.07 | ||||||
| 13d | 0.06 | 0.11 | ||||||
| 18d | 0.07 | 0.15 |
Table 4. Required Nutrient Concentrations of Goat Rations (Expressed on 100% Dry Matter Basisa))
Source: National Research Council, 2007.
a Values in table 4 are calculated from the daily requirements in table 3 ÷ by DM intake
bOne pound TDN (total digestible nutrients) = 0.91 Mcal DE (digestible energy)
c Requirements in addition to those for maintenance
d Annual fleece yield (lb)
| Body Weight (lb.) | Dry Matter (lb./heada) | % Body Weight | Total Protein (lb.) | TDNb (lb.) | Calcium (lb.) | Phosphorous (lb.) | Vitamin A (IU) | Vitamin E (IU) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maintenance | ||||||||
| 22 | 0.63 | 2.80 | 7.93 | 55.55 | 0.351 | 0.245 | 660 | 133 |
| 45 | 1.08 | 2.40 | 7.40 | 54.62 | 0.204 | 0.143 | 660 | 133 |
| 67 | 1.46 | 2.20 | 7.53 | 54.9 | 0.302 | 0.211 | 660 | 133 |
| 90 | 1.81 | 2.03 | 7.73 | 54.69 | 0.244 | 0.171 | 660 | 133 |
| 112 | 2.13 | 1.90 | 7.98 | 54.93 | 0.310 | 0.217 | 660 | 133 |
| 134 | 2.44 | 1.82 | 7.77 | 54.92 | 0.270 | 0.189 | 660 | 133 |
| 157 | 2.76 | 1.80 | 7.61 | 54.35 | 0.319 | 0.223 | 660 | 133 |
| 179 | 3.05 | 1.70 | 7.54 | 54.43 | 0.289 | 0.187 | 660 | 133 |
| 202 | 3.32 | 1.64 | 7.83 | 54.52 | 0.265 | 0.186 | 660 | 133 |
| 224 | 3.58 | 1.60 | 7.82 | 54.5 | 0.307 | 0.215 | 670 | 134 |
| Additional Requirements for Late Pregnancy (All Goats)c | ||||||||
| 1.56 | 0.12 | 0.55 | 0.003 | 0.002 | 900 | 136 | ||
| Additional Requirements for Growth: Weight Gain at 0.11 Lb Per Day (All Goatsc) | ||||||||
| 0.40 | 0.08 | 0.006 | 0.004 | 750 | 136 | |||
| Additional Requirements for Growth: Weight Gain at 0.22 Lb Per Day (All Goatsc) | ||||||||
| 0.79 | 0.08 | 0.003 | 0.002 | 630 | 136 | |||
| Additional Requirements for Growth: Weight Gain at 0.33 Lb Per Day (All Goatsc) | ||||||||
| 1.19 | 0.08 | 0.004 | 0.003 | 670 | 136 | |||
| Additional Requirements for Milk Production Per Pound at Different Fat Percentages (% Fat) | ||||||||
| 3 | 0.13 | 0.73 | 0.004 | 0.003 | 3800 | 760 | ||
| 3 | 0.14 | 0.74 | 0.004 | 0.003 | 3800 | 760 | ||
| 4 | 0.15 | 0.75 | 0.004 | 0.003 | 3800 | 760 | ||
| 4 | 0.16 | 0.76 | 0.007 | 0.005 | 3800 | 760 | ||
| 5 | 0.17 | 0.77 | 0.007 | 0.005 | 3800 | 760 | ||
| 5 | 0.18 | 0.78 | 0.007 | 0.005 | 3800 | 760 | ||
| Additional Requirements for Mohair Production by Angora at Different Production Levels (Lb) | ||||||||
| 4d | 0.02 | 0.04 | ||||||
| 9d | 0.04 | 0.07 | ||||||
| 13d | 0.06 | 0.11 | ||||||
| 18d | 0.07 | 0.15 |
Robert Spencer, Extension Area Specialist, Animal Science and Forages, Alabama A&M University
Reviewed July 2021, Nutrient Requirements of Sheep and Goats, ANR-0812