Saanen Goat

Capra aegagrus hircus

A white or cream Swiss dairy breed from the Saane Valley, regarded as the world's highest-yielding goat breed and nicknamed the "Holstein of goats," widely used in Kenya for crossbreeding and pure dairy herds.

Species: Caprine
Family: Bovidae
Climate requirements: Thrives across Kenyan highland zones above 1,800 m and medium-altitude zones of 1,500-1,800 m; in lower, hotter zones above 30C it requires shade and ample water to avoid heat stress.

Husbandry

Care & Economics

Husbandry guide: Managed mainly under zero-grazing or semi-intensive systems with quality napier grass, legumes and concentrate feeding to support high output; farmers should provide clean housing, ample drinking water, and shade in warmer areas. Under good management, does produce 3-5 litres of milk per day, with well-managed purebreds reaching 5-7 litres, at 3-4% butterfat. Routine vaccination (CCPP, PPR), deworming and hoof care are essential, and does generally kid annually, often with twins.
Economic importance: Prized by Kenyan highland dairy-goat farmers for its exceptional milk output, the Saanen supports both direct household consumption and sale of surplus milk, and its genetics are heavily used to upgrade local dairy goat herds.

Genetics

Breeds

No breeds recorded yet.

Animal health

Diseases

No diseases recorded yet.

Nutrition

Feeds

No feeds recorded yet.

Veterinary

Drugs & Medication

No drugs recorded yet.

Value chain

Products from this Animal

No derived products recorded yet.

Trade

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