Artificial rearing of goat kids has been the subject of intensive research in the Animal Production Unit of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria University since 1991. To minimize or even annul the mother-kid link, which is established in the first hour after birth (Ramírez et al., 1996
), kids must be removed immediately after parturition. This management practice facilitates the acceptance of artificial teats by the kid, thus improving the adoption of artificial lactation. Kids separated from their dams following birth must, however, be fed colostrum in an artificial manner. Colostrum is a nutrient-rich fluid produced by female mammals immediately after giving birth. Because of its high immunoglobulin content, mainly in the form of IgG, colostrum provides antimicrobial protection and confers passive immunity, preventing diseases caused by microbial infections in the ruminant newborn (Foley and Otterby, 1978
). Thus, it is generally recommended that newborns be fed with fresh high-quality colostrum as soon as possible after birth.