Space allowance modulates behavioural patterns and coccidial burden in Sirohi goat kids

This study evaluated the effects of different space allowances on the behaviour and coccidial load in intensively reared Sirohi goat kids. Seventy-two healthy Sirohi goat kids (approximately three months of age) with similar initial body weights were randomly allocated to four space allowance treatments: 0.8 m²/kid (T1), 0.9 m²/kid (T2), 0.7 m²/kid (T3), and 0.6 m²/kid (T4), with three replicate pens of six kids each. Daily behavioural observations were conducted over 90 days using scan sampling, and faecal samples were collected on Days 0, 30, 60, and 90 to measure coccidial oocyst counts (OPG). Results showed that space allowance significantly affected behavioural responses and coccidial burden (p < 0.05). Kids in lower space allowances (0.6 and 0.7 m²/kid) exhibited more feeding, standing, drinking, and agonistic behaviours, while resting, locomotor activity, self-grooming, and affiliative interactions decreased compared to those in higher allowances (0.8 and 0.9 m²/kid). Stereotypic and eliminative behaviours were not significantly affected (p > 0.05). Coccidial burden increased over the experimental period, being highest in kids at 0.6 m²/kid (T4) and lowest in those at 0.9 m²/kid (T2). These findings suggest that providing adequate space allowance can improve behavioural welfare and reduce coccidial burden in intensively reared Sirohi goat kids, highlighting the importance of appropriate housing management in intensive production systems.