Sheep and Goats

Feed is the single largest cost associated with raising small ruminants. Nutrition plays a very large influence on flock reproduction, milk production, and lamb and kid growth.

"Late-gestation and lactation are the most critical periods for ewe and doe nutrition, with lactation placing the highest nutritional demands on ewes/does. Nutrition level largely determines growth rate in lambs and kids. Lambs and kids with higher growth potential have higher nutritional needs, especially with regards to protein. Animals receiving inadequate diets are more prone to disease and will fail to reach their genetic potential."

Source: University of Maryland...see website for a variety of articles