These resources are brought to you by the Cooperative Extension System and your Local Institution

Goats Home

Have a question? Try asking one of our Experts

What is flushing?

Last Updated: August 28, 2010

View as web page


Flushing is the process of providing the doe with a high-energy feed prior to breeding in order to produce twins or triplets at kidding. If good management practices such as flushing are followed, kid crops can be increased substantially. Providing supplemental feed 45 days prior to breeding and continued for 45 days after breeding provides the doe with the extra energy necessary to increase ovulation and conception rates as well as provide maximum kidding potential. A goat that has a body condition score (BCS) of 5 (1-9 scale) or greater prior to breeding does not require flushing. Overconditioned/obese goats are more prone to issues at kidding including pregnancy toxemia and dystocia (kidding difficulties).

Browse related Faqs by tag: goats, goat, meatgoat, dairygoats, dairygoat, goatnutrition, goatsnutrition, kidding, flushing


Have a specific question? Try asking one of our Experts

Unlike most other resources on the web, we have experts from Universities around the country ready to answer your questions.