Monday, June 26, 2023
Body Condition Score
Body condition score is a simple and easy method for goat buyers and goat breeders to help determine the overall condition of a goat.
Body condition scoring is a 5-point system, 1 through 5, that uses 1/2 point increments which provide a numeric value as to the condition of a goat. The body condition indicates the animal's energy reserves which can impact the animal's health, reproduction, and management decisions of each animal. The nutritional needs of goats can be determined by evaluating the animal's body condition regularly. The body condition score is determined by providing a visual and hands-on inspection of the animal. Like most herds, there is typically a "pecking order" which can lead to some animals not receiving the same amount of nutritional intake even though the same feed, minerals, water, and environmental conditions may be identical to each animal.
An ideal score for a goat is between 2.0 and 4.0. Scores less than 2.0, i.e. 1.0 and 1.5, represent an extremely thin or starved appearance. Scores greater than 4.0, i.e. 4.5 and 5.0, represent an obese appearance where the rib cage is covered with extra fat and fleshiness is visible in the brisket area and the area in front of the shoulder.
At Iron Quail Ranch, we base our BCS values following the 2020 Purina Animal Nutrition guide. These values are listed as follows:
BCS 1: is an extremely thin or starved appearance. Rib bones are visible. Vertebrae and hip bones are prominent and sharp. No fat cover is visible.
BCS 2: Thin appearance with only a few back ribs visible. Vertebrae and hip bones are less prominent . Minimal fat cover is visible.
BCS 3: Fairly smooth appearance with minimal visible ribbing. Vertebrae and hip bones are covered with little prominence.
BCS 4: Smooth and completely covered appearance with ribs and vertebrae completely covered.
BCS 5: Obese appearance. Rib cage covered with extra fat. Fleshiness is visible in the brisket area and in front of the shoulders.
When we do our BCS evaluations of our animals, we also do maintenance items like hoof trimming (if needed), FAMACHA exams, and vitamin or mineral drenching. We also brush our does to help with coat sheen during feedings and milkings. If our BCS score is not in the ideal range of 2.0-4.0 then we adjust feed accordingly. Each animal's score can be impacted by conditions such as pre-kidding, kidding, post kidding, rutting for bucks, and other stresses such as predators. It is not uncommon and should be expected for a goat's BCS to fluctuate throughout its life based on the cycle of life that the goat is in. Good herd management will adjust inputs or eliminate stressors to correct deficiencies. Do not forget to document the completed evaluation of each goat in your herd's record book.