How to Livestock

The challenges facing small-scale farmers during winter are significant, and there seems to be very little government support for these farmers. Cattle farming plays an important role in South Africa’s agricultural economy and even more so in the emerging and small-scale farmer sector, which accounts for 5,7 million head of cattle.

Louis Steyl, CEO of Bonsmara SA, offers some advice to prospective farmers about how to go about setting up a cattle farm for future success, and stresses the importance of establishing a solid foundation.

Competing with ‘the big guys’ as a small-scale broiler farmer is possible if you keep the importance of fiscal discipline, cash flow, infrastructure, and biosecurity – among other factors – in mind, writes Shane Brody.

Limousin breeder Manjo Stiglingh and biomedical scientist Ilinde du Plessis explain the role of the F94L variant of the myostatin protein when crossbreeding with Limousin bulls, as well as the advantages it holds.

With rising global temperatures due to climate change, heat stress in livestock is a growing concern. Ranier van Heerden, Evonik’s business manager for ruminant solutions in sub-Saharan Africa, shared insights with Octavia Avesca Spandiel on early signs of heat stress in cattle, its physiological effects, and practical management strategies, offering valuable advice to help farmers mitigate this issue.

There are numerous outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease still active in South Africa. This article takes a look at signs and symptoms of the disease, as well as the vaccine that is available.

Brucellosis poses threats to animal and human health and has severe economic implications. Dr Didi Claassen, general manager of Afrivet Technical and Training Services, spoke to Octavia Avesca Spandiel about the transmission, clinical signs, and control strategies of brucellosis in cattle, sheep and goats.

Preventing mite infestation is a constant struggle for poultry farmers, with the poultry red mite and scaly leg mite posing the greatest threats in South Africa. Octavia Avesca Spandiel reports on how farmers can identify, manage, and control these pests effectively.

Accurate monitoring of cattle’s body temperatures is crucial for ensuring optimal herd health and productivity. Octavia Avesca Spandiel spoke to animal health experts for tips on precise temperature readings, early disease detection, and maintaining biosecurity in a herd.

Feedlots do not purposefully discriminate against certain breeders, but the animals may not always produce the carcasses that their market segment want.

Many of the larger manufacturers of livestock feed and supplements offer helpful advice booklets, which can sometimes be found at farmer supply stores and co-operatives. Take advantage of them, says Shane Brody.

Livestock health management has evolved over the decades to include disease prevention and growing farm revenue. The most effective health management strategies are those that include dipping, deworming, and vaccinating animals. Prof Cheryl McCrindle takes a closer look at these practices.