The Accidental Smallholder Forum
Livestock => Goats => Topic started by: ScotsGirl on September 10, 2012, 01:27:11 pm
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I have 3 Boer x boys destined for the freezer. When I got them about a month ago they were very skinny and you could play a tune on their ribs. I have been giving approx 400g per day between 4 of them (got an AN x female) split into two feeds. They are out at grass with constant hay and mineral licks.
Question is, everyone I speak to feeds different things, varying quantities and I don't know how much to give. Obviously with the cost I don't want to overfeed (plus don't want to fatten too quick) but also don't want to deprive them of nutrition.
I am using a gp cattle/sheep nut and calf grower for the copper. They now have a nice covering over their ribs and look happy enough.
Advice appreciated.
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I found that once they get to around 36 to 40 kilos, and have a fleshy feel to them, it's time to go. They will never feel as fit as a ready lamb.
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I have no idea about feeding meat goats but would like to say watch out for your nubie when the boys go as she will not like being on her own. Mine could out do a show jumper and gets her knickers in a twist when the others are in the milking shed ;)
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Thanks for that, yes I had thought about it and am trying to watch them to see if she has bonded more with one than the others. I will either keep one back or not let them go until my new Boer x girlies arrive.
She already screams the house down if they disappear out of site. They are all really cute and I don't know how to decide which to kill :'( :'(
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When it comes to the boys (lambs) I have to go for all or no-one as I can't pick :'(
This year it is no-one so I have two wethers to keep the ram when I find him company.
Next year it will be all.....
I find making the decision before they are even conceived is the easiest way for me.
Good luck!