Livestock Production Advisor

Common livestock questions

Why is my cow not conceiving after several services?

Repeat breeding after three or more services usually comes down to poor heat detection, badly timed insemination, low body condition, or a uterine infection after the last calving. Record heats for two full cycles and have a vet examine the cow before paying for more straws.

Which dairy breed suits a cool highland farm?

Friesians give the highest volume but need the most feed and water, Ayrshires are hardier on moderate feeding, and Jerseys give richer milk on less bulk. Above roughly 2,000 m with reliable fodder, Friesian or Ayrshire crosses usually pay best.

My layers dropped from 90% to 60% lay in one week — what happened?

A sudden one-week drop points to a feed change, water shortage, heat stress, a parasite burden or a disease such as infectious bronchitis. Check feed intake and water supply first, since those explain most abrupt drops and cost nothing to correct.

How do I fatten goats cheaply before sale?

Combine free-range browse with a simple home mix of maize germ, wheat bran and a protein source such as sunflower or cottonseed cake, plus mineral salt and clean water. Deworm at the start — worms will eat your feed budget before the goat does.