Productivity of Australian cashmere goats grazing Pangola grass pastures and supplemented with untreated and formaldehyde treated protein meals

In a 14-week study conducted in south-eastern Queensland, Australian cashmere goats grazing on nitro-fertilized Pangola grass pastures were supplemented with either untreated or formaldehyde-treated protein meals. Initially, all goats showed high growth rates, but control animals later experienced significant weight loss. Goats receiving protein supplements maintained their weight better, though there was no significant difference between the untreated and treated protein groups. The study found that protein supplementation significantly increased total fleece growth, except for sunflower meal, but did not significantly affect cashmere growth. The improved fleece weight was attributed to increased hair growth rather than cashmere. High stocking rates and possibly a seasonal decrease in appetite were linked to the poor growth observed.