Goat science covers quite a wide range and varieties of topics, from genetics and breeding, via nutrition, production systems, reproduction, milk and meat production, animal health and parasitism, etc., up to the effects of goat products on human health. In this book, several parts of them are presented within 18 different chapters. Molecular genetics and genetic improvement of goats are the new approaches of goat development. Several factors affect the passage rate of digesta in goats, but for diet properties, goats are similar to other ruminants. Iodine deficiency in goats could be dangerous. Assisted reproduction techniques have similar importance in goats like in other ruminants. Milk and meat production traits of goats are almost equally important and have significant positive impacts on human health. Many factors affect the health of goats, heat stress being of increasing importance. Production systems could modify all of the abovementioned characteristics of goats.

NEW! Coverage of cervids has been added to chapters throughout the book, reflecting the growing popularity of deer and elk. NEW! Thorough content updates are made throughout the book and reflect the latest research evidence. NEW! 170 new clinical photos have been added. NEW! Anesthesia and Pain Management chapter includes a new section on pain management strategies, reflecting the emphasis on controlling pain in small ruminants. NEW! Expert Consult website offers an online version of the book, making it easy to search the entire book electronically. NEW! Two new authors are respected and well-known veterinary medicine experts and educators: Dr. Misty Edmondson and Dr. Thomas Passler.

Sheep and goats are farmed worldwide for meat, milk, skins and wool. This diverse range of uses means that many people rely on these animals as a source of income, food and warm clothing, though they can also be kept as pets. With an accessible structure designed for use in the field, this book provides a general veterinary guide to treating common conditions in these animals. It addresses veterinary medicines and their uses, on-site surgery, equipment, normal values and vital signs, vaccination, nutrition, dental treatment, poisoning and dermatology. Worldwide disease conditions are also covered in detail, with a particular focus on the welfare of the animal and economic reality. A valuable field guide for the veterinary practitioner, this book is also essential reading for veterinary students.

Ecology and distribution; Breeding; Reproduction; Maintenance and growth; Pregnancy; Lactation of suckling ewes and does; Nutritional diseases; Infectious diseases of sheep and goats; Internal parasites of sheep and goats; External parasites of sheep and goats; Growth and characteristics of wool and hair; Wiik grading and marketing; Livestock and meat marketing and grading; Carcase and meat qualities; Milk production in sheep and goats; Systems, biological and economic efficiencies; Very extensive systems; Extensive grazing systems; Intensive grassland systems; Intensive arable systems; Very intensive systems; Government controlled systems; Migratory (Transhumance) systems; Nomadic systems; Village and smallholder systems; List of contributors.

Goat Science and Production presents comprehensive, state-of-the-art information on the science of goats and goat production for meat, dairy, and fiber. Chapters provide a fundamental understanding of the goat anatomy and physiology as well as production issues such as welfare, disease management, and feeding. Goat Science and Production is an essential introduction and reference to this increasingly important production animal.

Proper formulation of diets for small ruminants depends on adequate knowledge of their nutrient requirements.