Effect of Melatonin Administration to Lactating Cashmere Goats on Milk Production of Dams and Hair Follicle Development in Their Offspring

The study, conducted on 24 lactating Inner Mongolian Cashmere goat dams and their offspring, examined the effects of melatonin treatment on milk production and hair follicle development. The dams were divided into two groups: one received melatonin implants (MEL; n = 12) and the other did not (CON; n = 12). The treatment increased cashmere yield by 18%, improved fibre quality, and resulted in higher serum melatonin and lower prolactin concentrations in the MEL group. However, it also led to a 25% decrease in milk yield and lower protein and lactose yields. Despite the reduced milk production, there was no difference in hair follicle development or cashmere production in the offspring. The study concluded that melatonin treatment enhances cashmere yield and quality in dams without affecting the offspring's hair follicle development or cashmere production, although it does decrease milk production.