Raising Cashmere Goats

What is a 'good' Cashmere goat?  Very simply, it is a Cashmere Goat that has been bred to produce as much Cashmere of as good quality as possible.   This depends on Genetics, and is influenced by management and climate

GENETICS  The quality of  Cashmere fiber is determined only by examination by electron microscope.  The results of this evaluation give us the diameter and length of the fiber in exam, as well as a number of other paramenters necessary for selecting the best animals in the herd to use on subsequent generations.

A given Cashmere goat which produces acceptable quality fiber  should also transmit this quality to its offspring.  The first step is to document a goat's production and the second step is then to document his ability to transmit these attributes to his offspring.  'Pretty'  'Handsome' or 'Cute'  have nothing to do with genetic selection! 

There are few secrets to raising, top-quality Cashmere goats, but it is necessary to select carefully, cull consistently, keep good records,  and be aware of what is happening in the immediate geographic area to prevent the immission of infectious disease into your herd.

MANAGEMENT is almost as important as an animal's parentage in determining Cashmere production.  A diet too high in protein can increase the diameter of the Cashmere fiber significantly, and animals kept out of doors, free-range are more apt to produce more and better-quality fiber than over-fed goats kept  confined in pens or a barn

CLIMATE is the third most important part of this equation:  Cashmere is produced in those areas and altitudes where there is a distinct photoperiod and preferably extreme temperatures.  Low-lands or areas where there is considerable annual rainfall are to be avoided;  the closer to the equator the shorter the growing period; the higher the elevation, the better

None of the above is of any importance if your goats are not disease-free.  Healthy animals (and here we mean official documentation of the entire herd, and not just a breeder's assurances or the test results of any single animal in that herd)  are essential to a farm's success.  Not only do healthy animals produce better, they transform their feed more efficiently, produce more fiber, reproduce more easily and live longer.  At whatever price, a bargain!

Buying certified, healthy animals from reputable breeders is the most cost-effective way to create a successful herd

                    For more information see www.CapCashIt.it, the site of the Italian Cashmere Coat Association

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