Farm Animals: A Veterinary Science Perspective

Farm animals or livestock are animals that are raised in an agricultural setting for the production of meat, milk, eggs, fur, wool or leather. This includes animals such as sheep, cattle, swine, poultry, goats, etc. Traditionally, farm animals were not confined within enclosures, allowing them the freedom to forage for food. Such practices have now mostly been replaced by intensive animal farming. Poultry are kept in cages or barns under controlled conditions, while dairy cows and beef cattle are kept in high density feedlots or in zero-grazing conditions. This leads to an increased susceptibility to developing internal and external parasites, and other diseases. To avoid such circumstances from arising and for optimal production, proper feeding, hygiene, good husbandry and veterinary care are essential. Routine vaccinations and use of antibiotics when necessary can prevent many diseases from occurring. Such measures can prevent the spread of contagious diseases between animals, and between animals and humans. The topics included in this book on farm animals are of utmost significance and bound to provide incredible insights to readers. While understanding the long-term perspectives of the topics, the book makes an effort in highlighting their impacts as a modern tool in the sustenance of animal health and welfare in the farm. With state-of-the-art inputs by acclaimed experts of this field, this book targets students and professionals.