HOUSING SYSTEM

1.   Deep litter system



>     A small shed with good cross ventilation is enough to keep a small herd.
>     Litter height should be at least 6cms.
>     Litter material maybe of sawdust, paddy husk and groundnut shell.
>     The litter material has to be turned periodically to remove the foul odour in the pen.
>     Litter material should be replaced once in every 2 weeks.
>     Each goat requires about 15 sq ft area.
>     Care should be taken to reduce the external parasitic infestation.
>     An adult goat produces about a tonne of manure in a year.


2.  Raised platform system



>     wooden plank or wire mesh is placed about 3-4 ft from the ground level
>     External parasitic infestation is usually less in this method


3.  'Lean-to' Type Shed



>     The cheapest form of building is the 'lean-to' type shed located against the side of an existing building.
>     Such a shed for a family of two goats should be 1•5 m wide and 3•0 m long. This length provides 0.3 m for the manger and 1•2 m for the goats; An open-framed window of good size on the lower side and an open-¬framed door should be provided.
>     Arrangements for storing hay or dried feed can be made overhead.
>     The plan for a house varies with the climatic conditions and the type of flock to be sheltered. In dry climates with a rainfall of 50 to 75 cm a long shed open on the sides, little exposed to weather and built on well ¬drained ground makes an excellent shelter.
>     In the tropics because of high temperature, heavy rainfall and the susceptibility of goats-to parasitism, the most practical goat houses are those which are raised above the ground level, are well ventilated, and have long eaves to prevent heavy rain showers to splash in from the sides.
>     The floor must be strong (wooden strips with small slits in between) and the roof material should provide effective insulation from the solar radiation.
>     The roofing material would be made of bamboo or tree leaves or earthen tiles which are cheap and practical. Provision must be made for collection of dung and urine periodically.