Extra Info on Animal Production

Housing requirement of Housing requirement of animalsanimalsAnimals need to have enough spaceWell ventilated and draught freeWell insulated to retain the heatHave a proper waste disposal

systemClean water needs to be availableProper bedding Hygienic conditionsAnimals need to be doses and

vaccinated at housing

The advantages of housing The advantages of housing animals over the winteranimals over the winterPrevents a fall in body

temperatureMakes feeding easierProtects animals from weather

extremes Prevents poachingAids in the prevention and

identification of diseases

Why are animals fed Why are animals fed concentrates?concentrates?Concentrates supplement poor

quality fodder cropsFarmers can control an animals dietFarmers can ensure animals have a

balanced dietConcentrates provide fibreThey ensure production targets are

metThey are high in DMDThey are a high energy food

Factors to consider when Factors to consider when selecting an animal for selecting an animal for breedingbreedingFull set of teethHealthy feetProperly formed teethSuitable breedGood pedigreeAge

Factors to consider when Factors to consider when selecting an animal for selecting an animal for breedingbreedingProperly formed udderHealthy animalCondition scoreSuitable conformation

Points to consider when Points to consider when purchasing animalspurchasing animalsKnow the producerConformation of the animalCheck eyes, ears, nose, mouth,

navel and Anus for any dischargeGood legs and feetHealthy well formed udderHealthy teeth

SummarySummaryCalf/Cow Lamb/

SheepBonham/Pig

Weight at birth

40-45 Kg 2-5 Kg 1-1.5 Kg

Weight at puberty

250 Kg 40 Kg 75 Kg

Weight at slaughter

450-800 Kg 30-40 Kg 80-82 Kg

Gestation period

9.5 months 5 months 3 months, 3 weeks, 3 days

Time they reach slaughter

1-3 Yrs 4-6 months 6 months

Length of oestrus cycle

21 days 17 days 21 days