If a buck is present, return to estrus determination is simple. 10 Recto-abdominal palpation with the aid of a rectal probe can be done with great caution and experience from 70 to 110 days but many veterinarians find it too dangerous to recommend. After 110 days the fetuses can be palpated through the abdominal wall. Ultra sound and radiography pregnosticators are available but the initial expense is a limiting factor. 11 Milk tests, e.g. available from DHIA labs, can be used at 21 to 23 days post-breeding to detect levels of the pregnancy hormone, progesterone.
Low levels indicate a non-pregnant status.
However, goat owners should keep in mind that an animal detected as pregnant may later lose the fetus, because goats may be more susceptible to abortion than cows, particularly during the periods of poor nutrition. 12 Contagious reproductive diseases are not a common problem in goats. Brucellosis caused by B. melitensis is not found in the United States although it is a problem in other parts of the world. Goats are resistant to Brucella abortus, the brucellosis of cows and it is not a problem. Enzootic abortion, a chlamydial infection, occurs in California and causes abortions.