Assessment of Behavior and Health of Farm Goat in District Rahim Yar Khan

Abstract

This study presents an integrated assessment of the behavior and health status of farm goats. In order to assess a prototype protocol's viability in farms, ten dairy goat farms participated in testing. All other limitations were considered and the time allotted for implementing the proto- type was noted. There were twenty-one animal-based indications in the prototype; eleven at indi- vidual level and ten at group level. A comprehensive ethogram was utilized to catalog a wide range of behaviors, including aggressive, agitated, alert, bored, frustrated, lively, relaxed, suffering and sociable. Concurrently, health parameters such as body condition score, fecal soiling, vulvar dis- charge, overgrown claws, ocular discharge and nasal discharge were measured. The findings indi- cate a strong connection between behavior and health among farm goats. Positive behaviors, such as active social interactions and engaged feeding, linked to goats with optimal health indicators. Conversely, negative behaviors, including lethargy, isolation, and abnormal repetitive movements, were associated with goats displaying signs of suboptimal health. A notable aspect of the study was the identification of potential stressors within the farming environment, such as overcrowding and inadequate shelter, which seemed to impact both behavior and health. The results emphasize the need for holistic animal management practices that consider both behavior and health.