Birth Type Influences Secondary Hair Follicle Population and Cashmere Production in Cashmere Goats Despite Full Somatic Catch-Up Growth

This study on 74 cashmere goats examined the effects of birth type (single vs. twin) on growth and cashmere production. Single-born goats were heavier at birth and weaning, producing 10.1% more cashmere with finer fibers than twin-born goats, despite similar body weights by one year. Single-born goats had a higher density of secondary hair follicles, crucial for cashmere production, while primary follicles were unaffected. The study suggests that nutritional management during gestation and early lactation could improve cashmere production in twin-born goats, though further research is needed.