Abstract
Sheep and goats are essential in many parts of the world, providing meat, milk, and fiber while also aiding rural and low-income communities. The cost of feeding is a major factor in the overall expenses of animal production. Therefore, it is crucial to improve nutrient utilization and accurately assess nutrient needs. Sheep and goats in different parts of the world are raised under different systems influenced by variations in environmental conditions. In tropical areas, sheep and goats often consume low-quality diets that do not meet their production requirements. These substandard diets, which include high-fiber feeds like straw or hay, are commonly provided to small ruminants and can adversely impact their feed intake, digestion, and nutrient absorption. To address these shortcomings, these feeds are usually supplemented with high-energy and protein-rich ingredients. This is achieved by enhancing low-quality feeds and employing strategies such as enriched feed blocks. However, the feeding practices and utilization of sheep and goats are influenced by various factors, including climate, breed, and production system, all of which are critical to consider when assessing their feeding needs. For example, animals that are mobile, such as those in nomadic or grazing systems, expend considerable energy on movement, which requires supplementation. Additionally, an animal's body size, shaped by genetics, affects chewing rate, rumen pH, and bacterial composition. Meat production factors may be improved with proper use of NFs in small ruminants. This review explores the dietary needs of sheep and goats in relation to different production factors.