Constraints in Intensive Commercial Goat Production - A Review

Intensive commercial goat farming has emerged as a promising approach to enhance productivity and meet the growing demand for animal-derived protein in developing countries. Factors such as shrinking grazing resources, increasing land-use pressure, urbanization, and the need for efficient resource utilization have accelerated the adoption of intensive production systems. However, the growth and sustainability of intensive goat enterprises are constrained by several biological, managerial, financial, and environmental challenges. This review critically examines the major constraints affecting intensive commercial goat farming, including breeding and reproductive limitations, disease prevalence, inadequate veterinary services, high capital investment, feed and fodder shortages, managerial inefficiencies, labor scarcity, animal welfare concerns, marketing bottlenecks, and environmental issues. Available evidence indicates that these constraints adversely affect productivity, profitability, animal health, and overall farm sustainability. The review further highlights scientifically validated management practices, technological interventions, policy support mechanisms, and welfare-oriented approaches that can mitigate these challenges. Addressing these multifaceted constraints through integrated and sustainable strategies is essential for improving the efficiency, resilience, and long-term viability of intensive goat production systems.