Cashmere Goat

Looks how to spot one

double coat

Cashmere goats have a double coat: a coarse, protective outer layer called guard hair and a soft, fine, downy undercoat that grows in winter and is shed in spring. The undercoat is the valuable cashmere fibre. Guard hair may be long or short, and the undercoat should be dense and fine.51

Personality what they are like

Cashmere goats are alert, curious and independent, often a little more reserved than dairy breeds. With gentle handling from a young age they become easy to catch and handle. They are generally calm and manageable, not prone to fence jumping, and do well in a herd setting.342

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Moderate activity level. They enjoy walking, climbing, browsing and exploring. A dry lot with enrichment or safe pasture with browse, rocks and low climbing structures keeps them happy and healthy.3

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Seasonal grooming is needed during shedding to protect fleece quality and reduce matting. Hoof trimming and parasite control are important; frequency depends on climate and pasture rotation. Horns are traditionally not removed as they help with heat dissipation and handling.14

Home where they are happiest

Secure fencing is essential: woven wire with small openings or electric fencing works well. They need shelter from wind and wet weather, such as a three-sided shed or field shelter, to prevent hoof problems and internal parasites. They are adaptable to most climates but must have a dry place to escape rain.14

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Forage is the foundation: good-quality hay, pasture and browse (shrubs, weeds, mixed plants). In winter they eat hay, roughly one square bale per goat per week. Grain may be supplemented during extreme cold, stress, rutting, late pregnancy or lactation. Fresh water and mineral supplements should always be available.13

Company who they like around

Goats are herd animals and must never be kept alone. A pair or small herd is essential for their mental well-being. They can also bond with a horse as a companion.13

The story where it all began

The Cashmere goat is not a distinct breed but a type of goat selectively bred for its soft, fine undercoat, known as cashmere fibre. Any goat except the Angora can produce cashmere, but Cashmere goats have been chosen over generations for high-quality fibre in commercial quantity. In North America, the foundation stock came from feral goats in Australia and Spanish meat goats from the American Southwest. The North American Cashmere Goat Association registers individual goats that meet its standard. Cashmere goats are dual-purpose animals, valued for both fibre and meat (chevon). Their alert, wary temperament reflects their feral ancestry, which is only a few generations back.165

Recognised by the official bits

North American Cashmere Goat Association

Individual goats meeting the standard can be registered as NACG goats.1