Effects of maternal dietary selenium (Se-enriched yeast) on growth performance, antioxidant status and haemato-biochemical parameters of their male kids in Taihang Black Goats

•Se-enriched yeast is safe for the pregnant goats and can be used to improve the growth performance of their offspring.•Appropriate maternal dietary Se can improve the birth weight of male kids and Se excess has a negative effect on the fetus.•The Se content in the diet of dams should be changed with the development of their offspring.•Maternal dietary Se can enhance the antioxidant status and the metabolism of major nutrients of the male kids in goats.