In recent years, many domestic farmers have begun to show increased interest in dwarf goats. These animals were domesticated by the inhabitants of the Middle East about nine millennia ago. They were brought to the territory of modern Europe and Russia from the African continent. After reading this article, you will find out why Cameroonian goat is valued.
Brief description of the exterior and nature of the breed
These animals are not large in size. The weight of adult females is about 15 kilograms, males - 17-25 kilograms. As a rule, dwarf goats do not grow above half a meter, and the length of their barrel-like squat body can reach 70 centimeters. The heads of animals are decorated with large erect ears, a small beard, and horns bent backwards, which are almost impossible to cause injury.
The compact body of the goat is covered with thick short hair. As for the color, it varies from caramel to dark brown and from ash to charcoal black.
The miniature unpretentious Cameroonian goat has a gentle meek disposition. It is valued not only for its peaceful nature, but also for the fact that it is practically not susceptible to diseases typical of cattle. In addition, animals are quite easy to train, so they can be kept as a pet.
A few words about productivity
Cameroon goat, whose price starts from 3000-5000 rubles, for one lamb brings at least two babies. Pregnancy of these animals usually lasts about five months. Farmers have repeatedly recorded cases when they hatched two offspring a year. The weight of newborn kids is no more than 350 grams. Moreover, the kids are so well developed that literally a few minutes after birth they are able to stand on their own. By the age of three months, they are already actively moving.
On average, one Cameroonian goat is able to produce 1-2 kilograms of milk per day, the fat content of which is 6%. This product, containing a large amount of potassium, iron, phosphorus and calcium, has no smell and is characterized by excellent taste. Goat milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The meat of this animal is considered an excellent alternative to diet chicken or rabbit meat. It has virtually no fat.
Features of care and maintenance
Despite the fact that these miniature goats perfectly adapt to any terrain, they are not recommended to be bred in marshy and subpolar regions. Their maintenance does not require significant costs.
Cameroon goat is not picky about food. It can be fed with fresh grass, grain, vegetables and apples. They will not refuse specialized feeds. If necessary, they can climb trees for leaves or twigs.
The room where the mini-goats are kept should be clean and dry. It is recommended to cover the floor with straw.
Advantages and disadvantages of the breed
These unpretentious compact animals are able to withstand both heat and cold. The maintenance of prolific mini-goats does not require significant financial costs. They are quite friendly, well trained and resistant to most infectious diseases.
Like any other breed, Cameroonian goats have several significant shortcomings that should be taken into account by those who seriously decided to start breeding them. First of all, you need to remember that these animals do not adapt well to a damp climate. In addition, they do not tolerate loneliness, therefore it is advisable that relatives be always close to mini-goats. A very frightened animal can show incredible stubbornness and can even butt.