Goats are farmed globally for meat, milk and fibre in highly varied systems. Extensive systems present distinctive welfare challenges from parasite burden to predation and difficult terrain management.
Extensive goat farming welfare challenges are dominated by parasites and predation in most production regions. Haemonchus contortus causes anaemia, protein loss and death in susceptible animals and is becoming resistant to multiple anthelmintic drug classes — a crisis for both welfare and farm economics. FAMACHA-based targeted treatment, selecting for genetic resistance and management of grazing contamination are welfare-positive approaches that also reduce resistance development. Goat kids born in harsh conditions are highly vulnerable to hypothermia, particularly in high-altitude and cold-climate systems. Kidding management protocols including shelter provision, colostrum supplementation and monitoring of newborns substantially reduce early mortality. Predator-prey conflict affects both goat welfare and predator conservation, requiring integrated management approaches.