ZINC Deficiency in Angora Goats
By Mackie Hobson

1. Nutrition

Angora goats are the most efficient fibre producing animal. Keratin being a major component of the fibre requires certain critical minerals, Zinc (Zn) being one of them.

What causes a reduction in Zn ?

• Excess Calcium (lucerne) which suppresses Zn uptake – antagonist
• Periods of drought conditions
• High parasite burdens
• Periods of physiological stress such as pregnancy, kidding

What are the clinical signs of Zn deficiency?

• Hair loss
• The hair can come out in patches and goats may become bald.
• Thinning of coat, dull light fleece that can be easily pulled out at skin.
• Hair becomes brittle and straight
• Hair loss often more around head, neck, flanks, lower abdomen ,legs and perineal areas
• Goats may want to eat, bite at hair of other goats.
• Parakeratosis, where the skin becomes dry, scaly and thick.
• Abnormal hoof growth, stiff joints and lameness.
• Abnormal stance, arched back
• Can get excessive salivation.
• Reduced libido in rams, small testes and low sperm counts.
• Poor appetite

Treatment

Supplementation: Minerals list

See https://www.angoras.co.za/article/list-of-mineral-and-vitamin-supplements#171