How to Livestock

Sheep need to be dipped to prevent the spread of lice, scab and other economically important ectoparasites.

Livestock auctions offer a relatively safe way for farmers to trade their animals, with a fairly low barrier to entry. Cornel Landman and Anton Vos spoke to Glenneis Kriel about factors that producers have to consider when participating in these events, and the administrative processes that need to be adhered to.

Many medications are available for treating diseases and other problems, such as worms, in livestock. But by far the most important treatment you can give your animals is vaccinations against the diseases that occur in your area. Shane Brody explains why vaccines are different to other medicines, and why they are so effective.

Feed accounts for 65% to 75% of a poultry or pig farmer’s total input costs. Feed expert Dr Leon Ekermans spoke to Glenneis Kriel about strategies to reduce these costs and prevent wastage.

Removing the horns from your cattle holds a number of advantages. Most importantly, it will prevent the problem of bruised meat.

Tuberculosis is an important zoonotic disease that spreads slowly in animal populations.

Livestock producers, particularly in arid climates, are struggling to remain profitable. Soil degradation and declining stocking rates have been identified as some of the main reasons for this decline. Colin Nott, a regenerative agricultural consultant from Namibia, spoke to Annelie Coleman.

Cashmere is one of the finest fibres in the world and is considerably warmer than wool. Products made from this fibre are in great demand, especially in Western countries.

The replacement heifer is the foundation of a productive cow herd. Its selection and development can greatly affect the profitability of the farm through its genetics, future performance and longevity.

Smallholder pig production in Southern Africa is constrained by feed shortages and the demand for grains to feed the ever-growing human population. This makes it important to identify alternative feedstuffs for pigs.

Diseases that spread from animals to humans are a serious health risk. One such disease, associated with pigs, is a particular problem in rural South Africa, says Dr Caryn Shacklock of Afrivet.

Faced with increasing financial and ecological pressure, livestock farmers have no other option but to become more sustainable and resilient. Fortunately, explains independent agricultural consultant Dr Louis du Pisani, the solution can be found in well-managed veld, which also contributes directly to the health of the earth.

Two factors are crucial to successful livestock production: choosing the right rams or bulls, and planning breeding so that offspring are born at the optimal time of the year.

Informal sales may be a convenient way to improve cash flow in the short term, but they make it difficult to budget, and you won’t be able to take advantage of high prices on the market.

Providing feed and water for game animals can be challenging, as some methods may cause injury. Here are some helpful tips for setting up feed and water troughs, as well as building a crush.

This composite breed, with its predominantly Damara genetics, is hardy and highly functional.

This long-legged breed has a smooth, white hair coat with a black or red head.

The following guidelines and recommendations for cattle breeding seasons are applicable to a summer rainfall region and should be adapted accordingly for a winter rainfall region.

As part of an animal’s stress response, its body releases cortisol, a hormone that provides energy to help the animal escape the stressor. If the stress persists, however, the animal’s health will suffer.

Logic seems to dictate that some livestock producers must suffer buyer’s remorse after purchasing an animal for an eye-watering price. Glenneis Kriel asked a few farmers whether their record-breaking acquisitions have paid off, and found the answer to be unanimous.