Livestock

Definition of Livestock

Livestock refers to domesticated animals raised within agricultural systems for food, fibre, labour, breeding, or other economic purposes. These animals are managed by people as part of food production and rural livelihoods, and typically include cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, poultry, and other farmed species.

In agriculture, livestock systems integrate animal health, nutrition, genetics, welfare, land use, and environmental management to convert feed and natural resources into meat, milk, eggs, fibre, and by-products.

Why Livestock Matters

Livestock matters because it plays a central role in global food systems, economies, and landscapes. Its importance includes:

• Providing high-quality protein and essential nutrients

• Supporting farmer incomes and rural employment

• Contributing to food security and nutrition

• Recycling nutrients through manure and grazing systems

• Utilising land unsuitable for crop production

• Supporting cultural, social, and traditional livelihoods

When well managed, livestock systems can enhance resilience and productivity; when poorly managed, they can contribute to environmental and animal welfare challenges.

Key Aspects of Livestock Production

• Animal Health and Welfare – Disease prevention, veterinary care, and humane treatment

• Nutrition and Feeding – Balanced diets and efficient feed use

• Breeding and Genetics – Improving productivity and resilience

• Housing and Grazing Systems – Indoor, outdoor, and mixed systems

• Biosecurity – Preventing disease introduction and spread

• Environmental Management – Managing emissions, waste, and land impacts

Related Terms

• Livestock Management

• Animal Health

• Ruminant

• Monogastric

• Biosecurity

• Food Systems

Useful Resources on Livestock

Explore these authoritative resources to learn more about livestock production, animal health, and sustainable farming systems:

• FAO – Livestock and Animal Production – Global data, policy guidance, and sustainability frameworks.

• FAOSTAT – Livestock Data – Comprehensive statistics on livestock populations and production.

• World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) – International standards on animal health and welfare.

• DEFRA – Livestock Farming (UK) – Policy, statistics, and guidance for UK livestock producers.

• OECD – Livestock and Agricultural Policy – Economic and policy analysis of livestock systems.

• CABI – Livestock Health and Production – Research and practical guidance.

• USDA – Livestock and Poultry Programmes – Production, health, and trade resources.

• Our World in Data – Livestock and Meat Production – Data on global trends and impacts.

• AGRIS – Livestock Research Database – Peer-reviewed research and technical literature.

• RSPCA Assured – Farm Animal Welfare Standards – Guidance on responsible livestock management.