Fatty acids resulting from fermentation of the feed are absorbed into the blood stream from the rumen and reticulum. The remainder of the feed passes through the omasum and abomasum where further digestive action takes place. As feed ingesta enter the small intestine, enzymes further break it down and the released nutrients are absorbed into the blood stream for use by the goat. The ruminant animal is unique in that fibrous feeds can be utilized with the help of ruminal microorganisms. Generally, feed nutrients are divided into six groups.
Protein is the only nutrient that contains nitrogen.
Rumen microorganisms manufacture their own body protein, consisting of all the necessary amino acids, which are later digested by the host animal. 10 Protein makes up the basic animal tissue of the body and is vital for growth, milk production, disease resistance, reproduction, and general maintenance. The body has very little if any excess protein. Mostly, the nitrogen is eliminated by the kidneys and the rest is burned as energy. Since protein is generally the most expensive part of the ration, it is costly to feed more than what is needed.