For anyone intending to take up livestock keeping as an economic activity it is important to think of ways to maintain the animals and birds in good health so as to get the best results.

Like human beings livestock are attacked by diseases which may kill them or reduce their production and economic value. Many animal diseases are caused by germs, viruses, bacteria, and parasites.

To avoid such diseases, the farmer must regularly clean the animal shed and the equipment used to feed the animals. All livestock should be vaccinated against the commonly known contagious diseases in the area.

Sick animals and birds should be isolated. As much as possible visitors to the farm should be discouraged from getting too close to farmed animals. Visitors could carry infections. Fencing and paddocking help to reduce the spread of infectious diseases.
Regular deworming, spraying or dipping will kill most internal and external parasites. If an animal or a bird suddenly dies, invite a vet doctor to help you establish the cause of the death.

Ensure good waste disposal on your farm and strictly observe quarantine regulations that are imposed by the government from time to time. Avoid buying livestock from suspicious people. They could introduce dangerous infections into your farm.

Other animal health issues are the result of consuming poisonous substances which may be in form of food or drink. Be sure of what your animals eat and drink. Some diseases may be caused by food deficiency.

They too need to regularly eat food comprising of vitamins, minerals, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. It is not enough to just feed an animal for the sake of filling its tummy. Find out how good farmers feed their livestock and also seek guidance from agriculturists.

Being unfriendly to animals by beating them or constantly exposing them to physical injuries like wounds and bruises can reduce their body size and yields. Some animals have genetic health issues.
It is important for the farmer to make some investigation about the history of the animals he or she intends to purchase as breeding stock for the farm.