Raise animals well — they will provide for you in return.
Keeping livestock is one of the most rewarding aspects of homesteading. Animals provide meat, eggs, milk, fiber, and labor — and they enrich the land through their manure. This module covers the most common homestead animals: chickens, goats, pigs, and cattle, with guidance on housing, feeding, health, and breeding.
Chickens are the gateway livestock. They provide eggs and meat, require minimal space, and are relatively forgiving of beginner mistakes. Start with 4–6 hens for a family of four.
Chickens need 4 sq ft per bird inside, 10 sq ft outside. Goats need 15–20 sq ft per animal in a dry, draft-free shelter. Pigs need 50–100 sq ft. All housing must be predator-proof.
Provide fresh, clean water daily — animals drink more than you expect. Feed quality directly impacts production. Layer hens need calcium (oyster shell). Goats need minerals. Pigs are omnivores and can eat kitchen scraps.
Learn what 'normal' looks like for each species. Healthy animals are alert, eating well, and have clear eyes and normal droppings. Establish a relationship with a large animal vet before you have an emergency.
Internal parasites (worms) are the number one health challenge for goats and sheep. Learn FAMACHA scoring for goats. Rotate pastures to break parasite cycles. Avoid overuse of dewormers to prevent resistance.
Understand the reproductive cycles of your animals. Chickens lay without a rooster. Goats cycle in fall for spring kids. Pigs can breed year-round. Plan breeding to align with your needs and resources.
Raising animals for meat means eventually processing them. See the Butchering module. Chickens at 8–12 weeks (meat breeds), pigs at 6–8 months, beef cattle at 18–24 months.
Predator Protection
Predators will find your animals. Hardware cloth (not chicken wire) on coops, electric fencing, and livestock guardian dogs are your best defenses.
Pasture Rotation
Never keep animals on the same pasture continuously. Rotate every 2–4 weeks to prevent overgrazing and parasite buildup.
Keep Records
Track births, deaths, health treatments, feed costs, and production. This data helps you make better management decisions and identify problems early.
Build Community
Connect with other livestock owners in your area. They are your best resource for local vet recommendations, breed advice, and emergency help.