Effect of fibre reinforced plastic (FRP) roof on performance of lactating Jakhrana does

Abstract

Present study investigated the use of fibre reinforced plastic (FRP) sheet roof as alternate roofing material in goat shelters. Twenty lactating goats, 10 each, housed under pen having cemented sheet roof (CR) and FRP sheet roof (PR) were managed uniformly during winter. Analysis of data revealed that microclimate and physiological responses of does were similar and does were equally comfortable. The milk yield was significantly lower up to 30 days, recorded lower trend up to 60 and 90 days of lactation in does housed under PR than does under CR. The overall mean weekly test day milk yield and body weight of does recorded under PR was significantly lower than does under CR. Results indicated that the provision of FRP roof as alternate roofing material in goat shelters in semi-arid areas may not be beneficial in increasing production of lactating goats during winter.

Keywords

• Jakhrana goats
• Milk yield
• Physiological responses
• Plastic roof
• Winter