Raising small livestock:
Nurturing resilience and security

The homesteading revival: a quest for self-sustainability

Homesteading has gained traction as a way to reclaim self-sufficiency. Small livestock play an integral role in this pursuit. By raising these animals, you can cultivate your own food supply, reducing your reliance on external sources.

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What animals are considered small livestock?

Small livestock typically refers to animals that are relatively compact in size and can be raised on a smaller scale, making them well-suited for homesteads or small farms. Some common examples of small livestock include:

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• Chickens. Chickens are a staple of small-scale farming, providing eggs and meat. They’re relatively easy to raise and can adapt to various environments.
   

• Ducks. Ducks are efficient foragers and can provide eggs and meat. They also help control pests in gardens and ponds.
   

• Rabbits. Rabbits are efficient converters of feed into meat, offering a lean protein source. They require less space compared to larger livestock.
   

• Quail. Quail are becoming popular for their eggs and meat. They require less space and are relatively low-maintenance.
   

• Guinea pigs. Guinea pigs are primarily raised for meat in some cultures. They’re quiet, easy to care for, and require minimal space.
   

• Goats. Certain small goat breeds like Pygmy or Nigerian Dwarf goats can provide milk, meat, and even fiber on a smaller scale.
   

• Miniature sheep. Miniature sheep breeds are manageable in size and can provide wool, meat, and milk for those with limited space.
   

• Miniature pigs. Miniature pigs, like potbellied pigs, are raised for meat but require special care and attention.
   

• Bees. While not traditional livestock, bees are essential pollinators and can provide honey, wax, and other hive products.

 

It's important to research each animal's care requirements, space needs, and the legal regulations in your area before bringing them onto your homestead. 

 

 

The self-reliance advantage

Small livestock provide a tangible avenue for achieving self reliance. These animals offer a renewable source of eggs, meat, milk, and fiber, which significantly reduces the need to purchase these items elsewhere. As homesteaders become less dependent on external supply chains, they gain a sense of empowerment and self-reliance, knowing they have the means to provide for themselves and their families.

 

Emergency preparedness and small livestock

One of the often-overlooked aspects of raising small livestock is its relevance to emergency preparedness. In times of crisis, whether due to natural disasters or other unforeseen events, a homesteader with a diverse and well-managed array of small livestock is better equipped to weather the storm. A flock of chickens can provide a consistent source of protein-rich eggs even when store shelves are bare. Similarly, a goat can offer milk for nourishment, while rabbits can yield a lean and consistent meat source.

 

Choose the best livestock for your small farm 

Different animals have distinct characteristics and benefits, so choosing the right small livestock for your homestead depends on your goals, available space, and level of commitment.

 

Here are seven essential tips to help guide your decision:

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1. Assess your space. Evaluate the available space on your homestead. Different animals have varying space requirements for housing, grazing, and exercise. Make sure the animals you choose can thrive in the space you have.
    

2. Define your goals. Determine your primary goals for raising small livestock. Are you aiming for a steady supply of eggs, meat, milk, or fiber? Each animal offers unique benefits, so align your choice with your homesteading objectives.
    

3. Research breeds. Within each species, there are different breeds with distinct characteristics. Research breeds that match your goals and local conditions. Some breeds are more suitable for small-scale or backyard settings.
    

4. Consider local regulations. Check local regulations and zoning laws regarding livestock ownership. Some areas have restrictions on certain animals or limit the number of animals you can keep.
    

5. Evaluate maintenance requirements. Consider the time and effort required to care for each type of livestock. Some animals may need daily attention, while others are more low-maintenance.
    

6. Consider the climate. Assess whether the animal's natural habitat and needs align with your local climate. Some animals are more resilient to cold, heat, or humidity, while others require special care in extreme conditions.
    

7. Learn from others. Seek advice from experienced homesteaders or farmers who raise similar livestock. Their insights can provide valuable information about the challenges and rewards associated with each type of animal.

 

Remember that each type of small livestock comes with its own set of responsibilities, benefits, and challenges. It's important to match your choice to your resources, goals, and the level of commitment you're willing to invest. 

 

Before you make a decision on the livestock you’re going to raise, consider some common questions.

 

What’s the most low-maintenance farm animal?

When it comes to small livestock, the common consensus is quail. They’re small animals so they require very little space. Quail shelters are simple and easy to build. They have efficient feed-to-meat conversions and require less feed compared to larger animals. They’re quick to maturity, quiet, and easy to care for. They also produce eggs. 

 

Prepper tip: While quail are low maintenance, they still require proper care, attention, and adequate living conditions.

 

What’s the cheapest farm animal to raise?

Chickens are among the cheapest farm animals to raise. They have a relatively low start-up cost, they’re efficient feeders and convert their feed into eggs. As omnivores they consume a variety of food including kitchen scraps, they naturally control pests, and their manure is an excellent fertilizer — helping to cut costs associated with your home garden.

 

Prepper tip: A lot of factors contribute to the cost of raising chickens. This includes feed prices, coop design, and maintenance.

 

What livestock is easy to raise?

Rabbits are often considered to be one of the easiest small livestock to raise, especially for beginners. They have simple care requirements and don’t demand much attention. Rabbits don’t require a lot of space either. They’re gentle, reproduce quickly, can live indoors or outdoors, and they produce a high-quality fertilizer.

 

Prepper tip: While rabbits are relatively easy to raise, proper housing, nutrition, and clean water are essential to their health. 

 

Caring for small livestock

Raising small livestock requires a commitment of time, effort, and resources. Proper shelter, nutrition, and healthcare are essential for the well-being of your animals. However, this commitment offers a unique opportunity to produce your own high-quality food. Daily interactions with your livestock foster a profound appreciation for the cycles of life, the seasons, and the interconnectedness of all living beings.

 

Get a head start on your small livestock journey by stocking up on a few books. Here are some of our top recommendations:

• The Chicken Health Handbook

• The Rabbit Raising Problem Solver

• The Beginner's Guide to Raising Goats

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Construct the right shelter

Providing appropriate small livestock shelter is crucial for their well-being and overall success on your homestead. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind:
 

• Protection from weather. Your shelter should shield animals from harsh weather conditions such as extreme temperatures, rain, snow, and wind. Adequate insulation and ventilation are essential for maintaining a comfortable environment.
   

• Space requirements. Calculate the space needed per animal based on their size and species. Proper spacing prevents overcrowding, stress, and the spread of diseases.
   

• Ease of cleaning. Choose designs that are easy to clean and sanitize. Regular cleaning helps prevent disease and ensures a healthy living environment.
   

• Natural light. Incorporate windows or transparent roofing materials to allow natural light into the shelter. This promotes animal well-being and reduces the need for artificial lighting.
   

• Ventilation. Good airflow prevents moisture buildup and ammonia odors, ensuring a healthier and more comfortable living space for your animals.
   

• Predator protection. Design the shelter with security measures to protect animals from predators. This may include sturdy doors, locks, and reinforced walls or fences.
   

• Durability. Use durable, weather-resistant materials that can withstand the elements and the wear and tear of animal interactions.
   

• Accessibility. Ensure easy access for feeding, watering, and routine care. Design elements like feeding troughs and waterers should be well-placed for convenient management.
   

• Separate areas. Depending on the type of livestock, consider dividing the shelter into distinct areas for sleeping, feeding, and waste disposal. This helps maintain cleanliness and prevents stress-related issues.
   

• Cost and budget. Factor in the cost of materials, construction, and any necessary permits when planning your shelter. Balancing your budget with the needs of your livestock is essential.
   

• Local regulations. Check local zoning laws and regulations related to livestock shelter construction. Compliance with these rules ensures a smooth and legal setup.
   

• Future expansion. Anticipate potential growth in your livestock numbers. Design your shelter with expansion in mind to accommodate future needs.
   

• Compatibility with species. Different animals have specific shelter requirements. For example, poultry may need nesting boxes, while goats might require climbing structures.

 

The goal of a small livestock shelter is to provide a safe, comfortable, and healthy environment. Tailor your design to meet the specific needs of your chosen animals and your homestead's conditions. We live in an area where predators include everything from snakes to bears so our coop is built like a fortress. You may or may not need to go to those extremes. 

 

Select the right feed

​​Selecting the right feed for your small livestock is essential for their health, productivity, and overall well-being. Here are several important considerations to keep in mind:
 

• Species-specific nutrition. Different animals have distinct nutritional requirements. Research the specific dietary needs of the livestock you're raising to ensure you're providing the right balance of nutrients.
   

• Age and life stage. The nutritional needs of animals vary based on their age and life stage. Ensure you're providing appropriate feed for growing young animals, lactating mothers, laying hens, and mature animals.
   

• Protein content. Protein is essential for growth, reproduction, and overall health. Check the protein content on feed labels and select feeds with appropriate protein levels for your animals.
   

• Energy content. Consider the energy requirements of your livestock. Animals with high energy needs, like lactating animals, may require feeds with higher energy content.
   

• Fiber content. For herbivorous animals like rabbits and goats, fiber is crucial for proper digestion. Choose feeds with adequate fiber to support their gastrointestinal health — or include supplemental fiber in the form of specific hay or other grasses.
   

• Vitamins and minerals. Ensure the feed you choose provides essential vitamins and minerals that may be lacking in your animals' natural diets.
   

• Feed form. Feeds come in various forms such as bales, pellets, crumbles, or mash. Choose a form that is suitable for your animals' size, age, and feeding behavior.
   

• Additives and supplements. Some feeds may contain additives like probiotics, prebiotics, or enzymes that support digestive health. Determine if these additives are appropriate for your livestock.
   

• Avoid contaminated or moldy feed. Inspect feed for signs of mold, spoilage, or contamination. Feeding contaminated feed can lead to health issues.
   

• Local availability. Consider the availability of different feeds in your area. Choose feeds that are easily accessible to ensure a consistent supply.
   

• Budget. While quality feed is essential, it's important to balance nutrition with your budget. Compare prices and nutritional content to find a suitable option.
   

• Storage. Proper storage is vital to maintain feed quality. Store feed in a cool, dry place in airtight containers to prevent spoilage and infestations.
   

• Supplementary feeding. In addition to commercial feeds, provide access to fresh water, as well as forage or pasture, where applicable, to support your animals' natural behaviors.

 

Taking the time to research and select appropriate feed ensures that your small livestock receive the nutrition they need to thrive. Regular monitoring of your animals' health and well-being will help you gauge the effectiveness of your chosen feed and make any necessary adjustments.

 

Small livestock and permaculture

Permaculture is a design philosophy that integrates natural systems with human habitation, and it aligns beautifully with small livestock husbandry. Animals contribute to the permaculture ethos by cycling nutrients, controlling pests, and enriching the soil. For instance, chickens can be rotated through garden beds, helping to aerate soil, consume insects, and leave behind nutrient-rich droppings. This symbiotic relationship between plants, animals, and the environment enhances self-sustainability.

 

Learn more about permaculture, the food industry, and more in The Omnivore’s Dilemma by Michael Pollen.

 

Learning and adaptation: a homesteader's journey

Raising small livestock is a journey of continuous learning and adaptation. Mistakes will be made and challenges will arise. Yet, these experiences serve to enrich your understanding of the animals, the land, and the delicate balance that sustains a homestead. The sense of accomplishment when you successfully nurse a sick animal or witness the birth of a new generation is immeasurable.

 

A legacy of self-sufficiency

Raising small livestock on your homestead is more than just a practical endeavor. It's a lifestyle that aligns with the values of self-sustainability, self-reliance, and preparedness. As you tend to your animals, you're creating a legacy of resilience and harmony with the land. Your journey into small livestock husbandry may start with a few animals, but it has the potential to blossom into a life rich with meaning, connection, and the satisfaction of knowing that you're capable of providing for yourself and those you care for.

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