Chapter 1 - Routine Livestock Farm Management

Objectives:
After studying this chapter, students will be able to:

Understand routine management practices followed on livestock farms.
Know the importance of animal identification and modern technologies used for it.
Learn methods to determine the weight and age of cattle.
Understand the importance of disbudding and dehorning in cattle management.
Learn safe handling, restraining, and casting of animals.
Explain body condition scoring (BCS) in cattle.
Understand the importance of clean milk production and different milking methods.
Identify methods of vaccination and control of ectoparasites and endoparasites.
Become familiar with record-keeping and modern livestock management software.
Learn different carcass disposal methods.
Summary:
Routine Management of Livestock

Proper identification of animals is crucial for farm management.
Methods of identification include ear tagging, branding, tattooing, and RFID technology.
Determining Weight and Age of Cattle

Weight can be estimated using Shaeffer’s and Agarwal’s formulas.
Age determination is done through dentition (teeth examination).
Disbudding and Dehorning

Disbudding (removal of horn buds in young calves) is less painful than dehorning (removal of fully developed horns).
Chemical, hot iron, and physical methods are used for these procedures.
Livestock Handling and Restraining

Proper techniques are needed to ensure animal safety and prevent injuries.
Casting methods are used for medical treatments or surgeries.
Body Condition Score (BCS) in Cattle

BCS helps evaluate the nutritional status of cattle and optimize feeding strategies.
Milking and Clean Milk Production

Methods: Hand milking and machine milking.
Cleanliness and proper handling of milk are essential to prevent contamination.
Health and Disease Control

Regular vaccination is necessary to prevent contagious diseases.
Ectoparasite and endoparasite control measures are crucial for animal health.
Record Keeping and Software Management

Farms maintain records of feeding, breeding, and health management using modern software.
Carcass Disposal Methods

Proper disposal techniques include burial, incineration, and composting to prevent disease spread.
This chapter provides essential knowledge for students to manage livestock efficiently and apply scientific practices in animal husbandry