Meta-analysis: Transport stress in goats alters body weight patterns across breeds and genders

Abstract

Goat farming relies on sustainable reliable production systems to ensure an economically favourable supply of products. One of the major challenges to goat farming systems is the stress induced by transportation that leads to loss of considerable body weight. This meta-analysis study aims to explore the gender-specific and breed-specific responses to transportation stress in goats. The analysis relies on 25 study observations with various breeds and conditions. By use of Standardized Mean Differences (SMDs), and effect sizes, the study explores the breed and gender-specific responses. The overall SMD for body weight is observed to be (–1.158; 95% CI: –1.645 to –0.671; p < 0.001). The Sub-group analysis for breed-specific response showed the breed Boerka (SMD = –3.401) and Anpera (SMD = –1.491) experienced the most weight loss, while Osmanabadi goats were largely unaffected. Gender differences were also evident, with females (SMD = –2.692) showing more pronounced weight loss than males (SMD = –0.855). These findings can help to improve the transportation strategy and overall animals welfare.