Investigation on the Welfare of Angora Goats Using Animal and Resource-Based Indicators

This study aimed to assess the welfare levels of Angora goats in Ankara Province, Türkiye, using the Animal Needs Index (ANI) and Animal Welfare Indicators (AWIN) methods. The assessment was conducted on 28 farms, a total of 786 goats. By ANI score, the average was 46.8, with no significant difference based on farm size, as large (≥600), medium (300-599), and small (≤299) farms scored 45.6, 46.4, and 48.4 respectively. Using the AWIN Protocol, based on Body Condition Scores, 12.8% of goats were overweight and 11.1% underweight. Poor hair condition was observed in 14.1% of goats, while signs of thermal stress, abscesses, and fecal soiling were present in 1.5%, 1.1%, and 18.6% of goats, respectively; additionally, nasal discharge was detected in 21.2%, ocular discharge in 16.8%, overgrown claws in 18.2%, and udder asymmetry in 13.2% of the goats. The prevalence of dirty goats was observed in 43.6% and anemia (Famacha score 3-4-5) was found in 52.2% of goats. The study emphasizes the positive impact of smaller farm sizes on goat welfare, particularly in terms of locomotion and social interaction.