An update on estrus synchronization in goats: a minor species

Estrus synchronization allows for parturition at suitable times to take advantage of niche markets, feed supplies, labor, and rising price trends. In the past, synchronization of estrus in goats has focused primarily on dairy goats to allow for optimal timing of milk production. However, recent interest in meat goat production has resulted in attempts to use dairy goat, sheep, and cattle synchronization regimens in meat goat management systems. Methods of synchronization have included techniques as simple as alteration of light patterns or manipulation of social inputs (i.e., the buck effect) and as complex as varying timed hormonal treatments combined with light alteration and the buck effect. The synchronization of estrus using timed hormonal treatments seems to be more convenient in many meat goat production situations. Examples of hormones used include melatonin, progestogens (administered orally, as an injection, or by using intravaginal releasing devices), gonadotropins/GnRH (or agonists), and PG alone or in combination. As is seen with sheep and cattle, breed and/or breed type, stage of production, and environmental effects can influence synchronization success in goats. The introduction of breeds developed in other countries for rapid growth, such as the Boer goat, and increased consumer and producer interest have added to the impetus for developing cost-efficient and highly effective estrus synchronization regimens. New research is being conducted and various synchronization methods are being attempted in goats, a minor species, and the objective of this paper is to review these efforts.