
KIDDING
The kidding period is the most important phase of any smallstock operation. Kid mortalities under extensive conditions is an important problem which can negatively impact on production levels. Losses of up to 50% can occur as a result of poor supervision and poor or overfeeding of ewes. Nutrition and care of the doe during pregnancy, particularly the last trimester, is thus of great importance. Good feeding and nutritional regimens during late pregnancy are important as the doe should gain 7 – 9kg during the last six weeks of pregnancy.