Commercial goat farming for meat production is an increasingly popular venture due to the high demand for goat meat, or “chevon,” which is highly valued for its taste and nutritional benefits. This guide provides detailed insights into setting up a profitable goat farm for meat production, including types of farms, costs, area requirements, best breeds, food requirements, vaccination schedules, disease treatments, probiotics, vitamins, and management advice for Bangladeshi farmers.
Table of Contents
Understanding Commercial Goat Farming
Commercial goat farming involves raising goats in a controlled environment to produce meat efficiently and profitably. With proper planning, investment, and management, goat farming can be a highly rewarding business.
Types of Goat Farming
1. Intensive Goat Farming: This method involves raising goats in a confined space with controlled feeding, lighting, and ventilation to maximize production efficiency and reduce costs.
2. Extensive Goat Farming: Goats graze freely on pastures, which can improve meat quality but requires more land and higher costs.
3. Semi-Intensive Farming: Combines aspects of both intensive and extensive farming, providing controlled feeding while allowing some grazing.
Cost and Area Requirements
Initial Investment
– Land: A minimum of 2-3 acres is needed for a small-scale farm with about 50-60 goats. Land costs vary by location.
– Housing: Constructing goat sheds with proper ventilation, feeding areas, and handling facilities can cost around BDT 500,000-800,000.
– Equipment: Feeders, waterers, handling equipment, and ventilation systems can cost around BDT 200,000-400,000.
– Goats: The cost of goats varies based on breed and age.
Total Initial Cost
For a small-scale farm with 50-60 goats, the initial investment can range from BDT 1,200,000 to BDT 1,800,000.
Best Meat Breeds for Profit
1. Boer: Known for high growth rate and meat quality. Cost: BDT 10,000-15,000 per kid.
2. Jamunapari: High meat yield and adaptability. Cost: BDT 8,000-12,000 per kid.
3. Black Bengal: Excellent meat quality and low maintenance. Cost: BDT 5,000-8,000 per kid.
4. Beetal: Good meat quality and growth rate. Cost: BDT 9,000-13,000 per kid.
Food Requirements for Goat Farming
Quality and Quantity
– Kids (0-3 months): High-quality milk replacer and starter feed. Quantity: 1-2 liters of milk replacer per day and 0.5-1 kg of starter feed. Cost: BDT 30 per liter of milk replacer and BDT 20 per kg of starter feed.
– Growing Goats (3-9 months): Balanced feed with adequate protein and energy. Quantity: 2-3 kg of feed per day. Cost: BDT 15 per kg.
– Finishing Goats (9 months to market weight): High-energy feed. Quantity: 3-4 kg of feed per day. Cost: BDT 20 per kg.
Total Feed Cost
For 50 goats, the total feed cost is approximately BDT 600,000 annually.
Vaccination Schedule and Costs
1. PPR (Peste des Petits Ruminants): At 3 months old and annually. Cost: BDT 20 per dose.
2. ET (Enterotoxemia): At 2 months old and every 6 months. Cost: BDT 25 per dose.
3. FMD (Foot-and-Mouth Disease): At 4 months old and every 6 months. Cost: BDT 15 per dose.
4. HS (Hemorrhagic Septicemia): At 6 months old and annually. Cost: BDT 10 per dose.
Total Vaccination Cost
For 50 goats, the total vaccination cost is approximately BDT 3,500 annually.
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Common Diseases and Treatments
1. Coccidiosis: Treatment with coccidiostats. Cost: BDT 300 per goat.
2. Worm Infestation: Treatment with anthelmintics. Cost: BDT 200 per goat.
3. Pneumonia: Treatment with antibiotics. Cost: BDT 400 per goat.
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Probiotics, Vitamins, and Their Costs
Probiotics
– For Kids: Enhance digestion and immunity. Cost: BDT 15 per day.
– For Growing Goats: Improve feed efficiency and growth. Cost: BDT 20 per day.
– For Finishing Goats: Enhance weight gain and meat quality. Cost: BDT 25 per day.
Vitamins
– Vitamin A: Essential for growth and reproduction. Cost: BDT 3 per dose.
– Vitamin D: Important for bone development. Cost: BDT 3 per dose.
– Vitamin E: Enhances immune function. Cost: BDT 5 per dose.
Care and Management for Baby Goats
– Colostrum: Ensure kids receive colostrum within the first 24 hours.
– Housing: Provide clean and warm housing.
– Feeding: Gradually transition from milk to solid feed.
Advice for Bangladeshi Farmers
1. Choose the Right Breed: Select breeds like Boer or Jamunapari for maximum meat production.
2. Invest in Quality Feed: Ensure goats receive balanced nutrition for optimal growth.
3. Follow Vaccination Schedules: Prevent diseases by adhering to recommended vaccination schedules.
4. Maintain Hygiene: Keep the farm clean to prevent diseases and ensure high-quality meat.
5. Seek Professional Advice: Consult with veterinarians and goat farming experts for guidance and support.
Special Advice for Raising Goats for Eid ul Adha
1. Early Preparation: Start raising goats at least 6-8 months before Eid ul Adha to ensure they reach the desired weight.
2. Special Diet: Provide a high-energy diet to promote weight gain and enhance meat quality.
3. Health Checks: Regularly monitor goat health and ensure they receive all necessary vaccinations and treatments.
4. Market Research: Understand market demand and price trends to maximize profits during Eid ul Adha.
Conclusion
Starting a goat farm for meat production in Bangladesh can be a profitable venture with proper planning, investment, and management. By choosing the right breeds, providing quality feed, adhering to vaccination schedules, and maintaining hygiene, you can ensure the success of your goat farming business.
For more detailed information and resources, visit the [Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute]and the [Food and Agriculture Organization].
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