Cashmere

Origin and History

Cashmere goats are not defined by a single standardized breed, but rather by their ability to produce cashmere fibre. They have been developed in various regions of the world where goats grow a fine insulating undercoat to withstand cold climates. Over time, selective breeding has focused on improving fibre quality, yield, and overall body conformation for dual-purpose production. In Canada, Cashmere goats are valued for both fibre and meat, making them well suited to diversified farm operations.

Breed Characteristics

Cashmere goats are hardy, horned animals known for their adaptability and resilience. Each spring, as they naturally shed their winter undercoat, the fine cashmere fibre is carefully combed from the animal. This soft underdown, often referred to as the "fiber of kings," is highly prized for its warmth, light weight, and luxurious feel. The fibre is processed into premium garments and specialty textile products.

As a meat goat, the ideal Cashmere animal has a solid, well-muscled build similar to that of a Boer goat. Through selective breeding, both fibre production and meatiness can be emphasized to meet producer goals. Cashmere goats are alert, intelligent, and easily trained. Even the bucks are typically calm and trusting in nature, making them manageable and well suited to hands-on farming systems.

Primary Uses

Cashmere goats are raised for fine cashmere fibre production and for meat. They are well suited to dual-purpose operations seeking to combine luxury fibre markets with practical meat production.

Notable Qualities

Cashmere goats are known for producing one of the world’s most valuable natural fibres. They are hardy, adaptable, intelligent, and easy to manage. Their dual-purpose potential makes them an attractive option for Canadian producers looking to diversify income streams while maintaining a resilient herd.

Cashmere Breeders Information

• Cachemire Farm, Jeanne & William Harper

  • 998963 Mulmur-Tosorontio Tnln Glencairn, ON L0M 1K0 

  • 705-466-6133 

• Élevage Cataraqui 

  • Pontiac, QC  

  • 819-455-2729  info@elevagecataraqui.com 

• La Chèvre D’oeuvre, Amélie Blanchard

  • 957 Route 321 Nord St-André-Avellin QC J0V 1W0 

  • 819-983-1792 

  • info@lachevredoeuvre.com  www.lachevredoeuvre.com

• Mickey Meadow Ranch, Ingrid Selke 

  • 27782 Clark Rd Burns Lake, BC V0J 1E4 

  • 778-766-2463  ingridselke@iCloud.com

• Roving Winds Farm 

  • RR 2 Coldwater, ON L0K 1E0 

  • 705-326-6993 

  • cashmere@rovingwindsfarm.ca  www.rovingwindsfarm.ca

If you wish to see your farm listed on this page, please contact us.