Surplus male kids in dairy goat farming face significant welfare challenges. Humane management of these animals from birth is an important but often neglected welfare issue.
Surplus male kids in dairy goat systems face welfare risks from the moment of birth. On-farm killing must be carried out humanely with appropriate methods and training. Where kids are reared for meat, high-quality care including colostrum provision, social housing and good nutrition is required. Consumer interest in goat meat creates market opportunities to convert welfare challenges into viable production.