By Umar Nsubuga
Raising goats can be a rewarding venture for farmers, but it comes with its share of challenges. One of the critical aspects of goat farming that often goes unnoticed is the flooring of the goat pens.
Jennifer Tumushabe, a seasoned goat farmer in Kitagwenda district, and Phoebe Kagambe, a successful goat farmer from Kyenjojo district, share insights on the importance of having the right type of floor for your goats.
According to both farmers, while concrete floors are a durable and practical choice, they must meet specific conditions to ensure the well-being of the goats.
Benefits of a concrete floor
Concrete floors offer several advantages in goat farming. They are sturdy, long-lasting, and easy to clean, making them ideal for farmers who want to maintain a hygienic environment.
Tumushabe explains, “Goats are prone to various infections, especially when kept in damp or dirty environments. Concrete is easier to clean than dirt or wooden floors, reducing the risk of parasitic infestations and diseases.”
Concrete floors can also help with pest control. Fleas, ticks, and other parasites that thrive in dirt or straw floors can be minimised with the use of concrete, says Tumushabe.
“Concrete doesn’t absorb moisture as dirt or wood might, making it more resistant to water damage and mould growth. This durability ensures that the floor can withstand the daily wear and tear of an active herd, saving the farmer from frequent repairs,” she explains.
Risk of slipperiness
However, both Tumushabe and Kagambe caution that concrete floors must not be slippery.
“Goats are active animals,” Tumushabe says.
“If the floor is too smooth or wet, it becomes a slipping hazard. A goat that slips can get seriously injured, affecting its ability to move and feed properly.”
To counter this, farmers are advised to ensure that the concrete floor is slightly textured or roughened.
Kagambe adds, “You can use materials like sand, small gravel, or straw bedding on top of the concrete. These materials help provide better grip for the goats and reduce the chances of slipping, especially when the floor gets wet.”
Kagambe also suggests designing the floor with a slight slope to aid drainage, which helps in keeping the floor dry.
“A flat surface can collect water and urine, creating a slippery and unhealthy environment. With a well-designed slope, water can easily drain away, ensuring the floor remains dry and safe,” she advises.
Hygiene is key
Another major factor both farmers agree on is maintaining cleanliness.
“A concrete floor that is not regularly cleaned can become just as
problematic as a dirt floor,” says Tumushabe.
“Goat droppings and urine should be cleared daily to prevent ammonia buildup, which can affect the respiratory health of the goats.”
Kagambe emphasises the importance of disinfecting the concrete floor periodically to avoid the spread of diseases.
“I use mild disinfectants that are safe for the goats but effective in killing germs and bacteria. This is especially important after the rainy season, when diseases like foot rot are more likely to occur due to the dampness,” she explains.
Ensuring comfort for the goats
Although concrete is practical, both Jennifer and Phoebe recommend that farmers add bedding to enhance comfort for the goats.
“Concrete can get too cold, especially in colder months,” says Tumushabe.
“Straw or sawdust bedding provides warmth and makes the floor more comfortable for the goats to lie on.”
Kagambe also points out that soft bedding helps protect the goats’ joints, particularly the knees, which can get sore if the goats lie directly on the hard surface.
“Goats spend a lot of time lying down, chewing cud, or resting. Providing bedding not only keeps them comfortable but also ensures they are stress-free, which is key to their productivity,” she adds.
