Relationship Between Body Weights, Body Conformation Score (BCS), FAMACHA, Fecal Egg Count (FEC), and Packed Cell Volume (PCV) in Kiko Meat Goats in Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter.
Author(s)
Chukwuemeka C Okere , Kristen Lane , Nar Gurung ,
Download Full PDF Pages: 20-32 | Views: 223 | Downloads: 58 | DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.7109983
Abstract
In Alabama, the Kiko meat goat (developed and imported from New Zealand) is the most widespread and well-known breed constituting about 70% of the total goat population in the state. This study was carried out to evaluate the seasonal (winter, spring, summer and fall) relationships between body weight (BWT), body conformation scores (BCS), FAMACHA, fecal egg count (FEC) and packed cell volume (PCV) of Kiko-meat goats managed under semi-intensive production system in southeast Alabama. Mature Kiko meat goats (n = 15; age = 9-12 months) were utilized. BWT was recorded using a standard scale, while. BCS was assessed by subjective scores (ranging from 1= emaciated to 5= obese). FEC was obtained from fecal materials using the McMaster slide. The observation of the conjunctiva of the ventral eyelid for paleness, was as quantified as a FAMACHA score. FAMACHA scores showed moderate seasonal correlations with BCS (r = -0.53), low negative correlation with PCV (r = -0.20). Body weight showed a high strong relationship with BCS (r = 80). The present study provides evidence for the possible use of FAMACHA© as a tool to identify and select Kiko meat goats that need anthelmintic treatment against parasitic worms as has been shown in other small ruminants. Results also suggests that Kiko meat goats that scored 1, 2 or 3 with the FAMACHA© chart can be considered non-anemic and not in need of deworming, while those in categories 4 and 5 are in need of deworming
Keywords
FAMACHA, PCV, Fecal Egg Count, Kiko Meat Goats, Seasons
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