Anp 301

General Introduction 1
NATIONAL OPEN UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA
SCHOOL OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COURSE CODE: ANP 301
COURSE TITLE: INTRODUCTION TO NON-RUMINANT ANIMAL PRODUCTION

TABLE OF CONTENTS
MODULE 1: POULTRY MANAGEMENT
LIST OF UNITS………………………………………………………………………. 1
UNIT 1 General Introduction to Poultry Management………………………. 9
UNIT 2 Poultry Production Systems……………………………………………. 16
UNIT 3 Feeding Principles of poultry…………………………………………… 26
UNIT4 Incubation and Hatchery Practices……………………………………. 35
UNIT 5 Management of Day old, Growers, Layers and Broilers……………… 44
UNIT 6 Poultry Diseases and their Prevention…………………………………. 50
UNIT 7 Poultry products and Marketing……………………………………….. 58
MODULE 2: RABBIT MANAGEMENT
LIST OF UNITS…………………………………………………………………………. 64
UNIT 1 General Introduction to Rabbit Management…………………………. 71
UNIT 2 principles of feeding rabbits and feed resources………………………. 80
UNIT3 Rabbit Reproduction……………………………………………………. 89
UNIT4 Rabbit Housing and Equipment………………………………………… 97
UNIT5 Husbandry Skills of Rabbit Production……………………………… 106
UNIT6 Rabbit Health and Diseases……………………………………………. 114
UNIT7 Killing and Processing………………………………………………….. 119
MODULE 3: Pig Management
LIST OF UNITS………………………………………………………………………… 126
UNIT1 General Introduction to Pig Management…………………………….. 132
UNIT2 Pig Production Systems…………………………………………………. 142
UNIT3 Principles of feeding pigs and pig resources…………………………… 151
UNIT4 Management of breeding stock, piglets, weaners, Growing
and finishing pigs………………………………………………………. 161
UNIT5 Swine Diseases and their Prevention…………………………………… 171
UNIT6 Swine Processing and Marketing………………………………………. 180
CONTENTS
Page
Introduction ………………………………………………………………………… ii
What you will learn in this course…………………………………………………. ii
Course Aims…………………………………………………………………………. ii
Course Objectives…………………………………………………………………… iii

Working through this Course………………………………………………... iii
Course Material................................................................................................. iv
Study Units....................................................................................................... iv
Set Textbooks……………………………………………………………….. viii
Presentation Schedule...................................................................................... viii
Assessment………………………………………………………………………… viii
Tutor Marked Assignments (TMA)………………………………………… ix
Final Examination and Grading…………………………………………… ix
Course Marking Scheme…………………………………………………… ix
Course Overview………………………………………………………… x
How to get the most from this Course………………………………………… xi
Summary………………………………………………………………………… xi
INTRODUCTION
The course consist of 3 Modules, Module 1 is Poultry Management, Module 2 Rabbit
Management and Module 3 is Pig Management. The three Modules consist of 20 units.
7 units were dedicated to Poultry, 7units to Rabbits and 6 units to Pig Management.
The material in this course is based on practical approach to what is routinely practice on
Poultry, Rabbit and Pig farms. The course has been developed to suit students of Animal
Production, small and large scale Poultry, Rabbit and Pig keepers. In order to learn more about
this course you are expected to make reference to other sources of information like the Library
and Internet.
The course guide tells you all that you need to know about the course, what course material you
will be using and more importantly you are encouraged to frequent Poultry, Rabbit and pig farms
and offer to participate in the management aspect. This will be organized by your tutor as
specified at the end of some units. This will go along way in enriching your knowledge and
developing your skills in handling animals.
You will also find self assessment exercises embedded within each unit of the course for you to
answer. At the end of each unit you will have standard tutor marked assignment
questions(TMAQ) for you to answer and give your teacher for assessment.
What you will learn in the course

The course consists of three Parts which covers basic concept in non- ruminant animal
management of Poultry, Rabbits and pigs.
In this course you are going to study the management of breeding stocks, growing and young
animals of Poultry, Rabbits and Pigs. You will also study their housing, equipment and feeding
principles. Production and management practices, livestock economics as well as health
management of stock, processing and marketing of poultry, pigs and rabbits were discussed.
Course Aims
The course aim is to develop and strengthen your understanding of Non-Ruminant Animal
Production and to be actively involve in animal management with a view to minimize the protein
intake in-balance in Nigeria. The following is the summary of the course aims in which you are
expected to be able to:
• Explain the term non-ruminants, their brief history, distribution and development.
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of keeping Poultry, Pigs and Rabbits.
• Recognize the problems or constraints of Poultry, Pigs and Rabbits production in Nigeria.
• Know the guide lines on how to improve Poultry, Pigs and Rabbits production in Nigeria.
• Distinguish the different commercial breeds of Chickens, Rabbits and Pigs and their
Characteristics
• Understand the production systems and methods used in Poultry, Rabbit and Pigs.
• Know their nutrition, selection, common diseases, parasites, and their preventive and
control measures.
• Be familiar with the processing and marketing of Poultry, Rabbits and pig products.
Course Objectives
To achieve the aims stated above, each unit has stated objectives at the beginning of the unit.
You should Endeavour to read them before working through the course.
At the end of each unit, find out from the objectives if you have done what is required of the unit.
On successful completion of the course you should be able to

1. Explain with suitable examples, the term non-ruminants their historical background and
distribution around the world.
2. Identify based on their physical appearance the different breeds of Poultry, Rabbits and Pigs.
3. Explain the procedure of processing and system of marketing poultry, Rabbit, Pigs and their
products.
4. Take part in the management of Poultry, Rabbits and Pigs from day old to point of disposal
or slaughter.
5. Identify the signs, of common diseases and parasites of non- ruminants and the measures
necessary for their prevention.
6. Understand the Nutrition of non-ruminants, their requirements, sources and types.
7. Explain the adjustments needed in housing, system of production, with a view to improve
the productivity of these animals in Nigeria.
Working through This Course

This course is very interesting, and requires you to spend some time to read and understand each
unit, I would advice frequent visits to nearby Poultry, Rabbit and Pig Farms will help you to
understand and better appreciate the course. Where possible try as much as you can to be
involved in the management aspects (feeding, cleaning, disinfection, beak trimming, e.t.c.)
Course Materials
Major components of the course are;
1. Course guide
2. Study units
3. Textbooks
4. Visits to Poultry, Rabbit and Pig Farms
In addition to the above, there are some recommended textbooks for the course which are not
compulsory for you to have or read. They are necessary as supplements to the course material.
Study units
The course consists of 20 units and divided into 3 Modules as follows:
Module 1 Poultry Management - 7 Units
Module 2 Rabbit Management -7 Units
Module 3 Pig Management -6 Units
The details of the 3 modules and their content are as follows:

Module 1: Poultry Management

Unit 1: General Introduction of poultry Management
Unit 2: Poultry Production Systems
Unit 3: Feeding principles of Poultry
Unit 4: Incubation and Hatchery practices
Unit 5: Management of day-old growers, layers and broilers
Unit 6: Poultry diseases and their prevention
Unit 7 : Poultry Products and Marketing
Module 2 Rabbit Management

Unit 1: General introduction of Rabbit Management
Unit 2: Principles of Feeding Rabbit and Feed Resources
Unit 3: Rabbit Reproduction
Unit 4: Rabbit Housing and Equipment
Unit 5: Husbandry Skills of Rabbit Production
Unit 6: Rabbit Health and Diseases
Unit 7: Killing and Processing
Module 3 Pig Management

Unit 1: General introduction of Pig Management
Unit 2: Pig Production Systems
unit 3: Principles of Feeding Pigs and Feed resources
Unit 4: Management of Breeding stock, Piglets, Weaners,
Growing and Finishing pigs
Unit 5: Swine Diseases and their prevention
Unit 6: Swine Processing and Marketing
Module 1 Poultry Management (7 units)
The first unit in the material discusses the general introduction in Poultry Management
including the meaning of poultry ,Taxonomy of the domestic fowl, the advantages and
disadvantages of keeping poultry. Problems or constraint of poultry production in Nigeria as well
as guidelines to improve poultry production were discussed finally breeds of chicken and their
characteristics were explored.
The second unit introduces you to the different systems of Poultry production their advantages
and disadvantages. you will also study Breeds of chickens and their characteristic. Poultry
Housing, general principles of poultry housing in the tropics were discussed. You will also study
poultry equipment and their Maintenance.
The third unit discusses the digestive system of poultry and their nutrient requirement.
You will study the nutrient allowance for poultry under tropical conditions, Feed requirement
and body weight of Broilers, their growth rate, feed intake and floor space requirement of pullets.
In the fourth unit you will study the Reproductive system of the hen, avian egg and its
composition. You will be exposed to the idea of Incubation its Essential requirements
The Operation of the incubator, hatchability and its Factors were also discussed.
In the fifth unit you will study the basic principles of managing day-old chicks, growers, broilers
and layers. Feeding and watering Equipment, Temperature requirement of chicks were also
discussed. You will be able to know the characteristics of a good layer and a good broiler.
The sixth unit deals with Poultry diseases and their prevention. Common diseases of parasitic,
bacterial, and viral origin were discussed.
The seventh unit is about Poultry Products and Marketing. Exterior and interior qualities used for
grading eggs, Egg processing and preservation were discussed.
Module 2 Rabbit Management ( 7 Units)
The first unit focused on the general introduction of rabbit management. The advantages and
disadvantages of keeping rabbits will be studied. Problems or Constrains of rabbits production in
Nigeria, guidelines on promoting rabbit production and Biological classification (taxonomy)
were also discussed. Different breeds, their comparison and pictures are shown for clarity.
In the second unit you will study the Principles of Feeding Rabbit and Feed Resources.
The digestive system and nutrient requirement of rabbits were discussed. You will study the
concept of Caecotrophy and Feeding systems of rabbits.
The third unit focused on Rabbit Reproduction. You will study the Male and female reproductive
system, methods of selecting rabbits for breeding, their Mating, Kindling, Sexing and weaning.
Pregnancy diagnosis in rabbits is also discussed.
Fourth unit is about Rabbit Housing and Equipment. In this unit you will study Housing
requirements, Types of housing, Indoor hutches, Outdoor rabbit hutch and Floor methods of
housing. You will also study Hutch equipment, their requirements and Maintenance.
In the fifth unit you will be exposed to Husbandry Skills of Rabbit Production like
Observation, Rabbit examination, Weighing, Nail trimming and Identification. You will also
study Record keeping and analysis which will enlighten you on Financial and Animal record
keeping.
In the sixth unit you will learn Rabbit Health and Diseases, Signs of a healthy rabbit
Conditions that make a rabbit susceptible to disease including Stress and how to minimize major
stresses were discussed. Preventive measures for common diseases like Coccidiosis, Ear mange
or skin mange, Snuffles and Myxomatosis are discussed.
In the seventh unit you will study Poultry Products and Marketing for example Egg marketing,
Egg grading, Exterior and interior qualities used for grading eggs as well as Egg and bird
processing of table birds.
Module 3 Pig Management (6 Units)
In the first unit you will be exposed to the general introduction to pig management, in this unit
World pig population their distribution and consumption will be studied. Taxonomy or
Biological Classification, Advantages and Disadvantages of pig farming and breeds of pigs will
also be studied.
The second unit deals with Pig Production Systems, their advantages and disadvantages will also
be studied. General consideration of designing pig house and Pig equipment will be explored.
In the third unit you will study Principles of Feeding pigs and Feed resources, Gastro intestinal
tract (G.I.T) and nutrient utilization and Nutrient requirement of pigs for example Water, Energy,
Protein, Minerals and Vitamins
Fourth unit deals with Management of Breeding stock, Piglets, Weaners, Growing and Finishing
pigs. Management considerations like Stockman ship, Handling and restraint, Hygiene,
Management of breeding stock selecting boar for service, Mating conditions, Frequency of use
and boar-to-sow ratio, Management of Gilts/ Sows, Pigs breeding cycle and Recommended
practices will be studied. You will also study the preparation needed before farrowing,
Management of piglets like Creep feeding, Provision of iron, and the Culling of sows.
In the fifth unit you will be exposed to the study of Swine Diseases and their prevention.
External parasite, Endo parasites and common Infectious diseases of pigs will be studied.
The sixth unit is concerning Swine Processing and Marketing and this include Transporting the
animals, the care of animals in the Lairage, Slaughter procedure
Bleeding, Scalding and de-hairing, Evisceration, Meat hygiene, Marketing and Uses of pig meat.
Text books
Where applicable the recent editions of these books are recommended for further readings.
• Adi, M. A. (1994) Sheep, Goat and Swine production in Nigeria

• Fielding, D., Smith, A. J. and Coste, R. (1991) (Rabbits) The Tropical Agriculturalist
(CTA) Macmillan
• Holness, D.H., Smith, A.J. and Coste, R. (1991) Pigs The Tropical Agriculturalist
(CTA) Macmillan.
• Lee, S. and Summers, J. D. (2000) Broiler breeder production.
• McDonald, P.,Edward, R.A., Greenhalgh, J.F.D. and Morgan,C.A. (1998) Animal

Nutrition 5th edition.
• McDonald, I. and Low, J. (1985) Livestock rearing in the tropics Macmillan education
Ltd.
• Sainsbury, D. (1992) Poultry Health and Management3rd edition Blackwell Scientific
publication.
• Williamson, G. and Paye, W. J. A. (1987) An introduction to Animal husbandry in the
tropics.
Presentation schedule
The Presentation schedule is included in your course materials and gives you the important dates
for the completion of tutor-marked assignments. You are required to submit to your tutor for
assessment by the stated dates
Assessment
There are two components of assessment for this course. The tutor marked Assignment (TMA),
and the end of course examination.
Tutor marked assignment
There are twenty Tutor Marked Assignments Questions (TMA) in this course; you need to
submit fifteen tutor marked assignments, (Five questions from each module) before you are
allowed to sit for the end of course examination. The work you submit to your tutor for
assessment will count for 30% of the total course mark.
You are expected to complete your assignments from the information and materials
contained in your set books, reading study units, interactions with farmers during your visits and
the Internet. You are also advised to read as wide as you can to broaden your knowledge.
After completing each assignment, sent it together with a TMA (tutor marked assignment) form,
to your tutor. Make sure each assignment reaches your tutor on or before the deadline given to
you. If for other reasons you cannot meet the deadline, contact your tutor for a possible extension
date. Be warned extensions will not be granted after the due date unless for few exceptional
cases.
Final examination and grading
This is the end of course examination, it is a three hours’ duration and concludes the assessment
for the course. It constitutes 70% of the whole course; you will be informed of the time for the
examination. It may or may not coincide with the university semester examination.
Table 1: Course marking scheme

Assessment Marks
Assignment 1-15 30% of course marks
Final examination 70% of course marks
Total 100% of course marks
Course overview
Table 2: course organization
Unit Title of work Weeks Assessment

activity (end of unit)
Course guide 1
Module 1 Poultry Management
1 General Introduction of poultry 2 Assignment 1
Management
2 Poultry Production Systems 2 Assignment 2
3 Feeding principles of Poultry 2 Assignment 3
4 Incubation and Hatchery practices 2 Assignment 4
5 Management of day-old growers, layers 2 Assignment 5

and broilers
6 Poultry diseases and their prevention 2 Assignment 6
7 Poultry Products and Marketing 2 Assignment 7
1 General introduction of Rabbit 2 Assignment 8
Management
2 Principles of Feeding Rabbit and Feed 2 Assignment 9
Resources
3 Rabbit Reproduction 2 Assignment 10
4 Rabbit Housing and Equipment 2 Assignment 11
5 Husbandry Skills of Rabbit Production 2 Assignment 12
6 Rabbit Health and Diseases 2 Assignment 13
7 Killing and Processing 2 Assignment 14
1 General introduction of Pig Management 2 Assignment 15
2 Pig Production Systems 2 Assignment 16
3 Principles of Feeding Pigs and Feed 2 Assignment 17
resources
4 Management of Breeding stock, Piglets, 2 Assignment 18
Weaners, Growing and Finishing pigs
5 Swine Diseases and their prevention 2 Assignment 19
6 Swine Processing and Marketing 2 Assignment 20
Revision 3
Total 44
How to get the most from this course

Most of what you will study in this course has practical application on the farm. If you run into
any problem, telephone your tutor (you will be provided with the telephone number, e-mail or
how to contact your tutor). It is your tutor’s responsibility to help you when you need help, don’t
hesitate to call and ask your tutor to provide it.
The course overview is your reference for the time needed for each unit and the assignment
related to the units.
Organize you study schedule and follow it strictly, refer to the course overview for the time you
are expected to spend on each unit and also the assignment related to the units.
Work through each unit at the time required, where you are instructed to visit a nearby farm, you
tutor will arrange for the visits and you are expected to observed the practical aspect of what you
are learning. Feel free to discuss with your tutor and the farm keeper all your problems regarding
what you have learnt.
Review the objectives for each study unit to make sure that you have achieved them. Incase of
any difficulty you may contact your tutor. You also have self assessment exercise which you are
required to answer on your own. Your ability to answer them is an indication of your
understanding of the unit concerned. Try as much as you can to answer the questions.
When you are sure that you have achieved a unit’s objectives, you can then start on the next unit.
When you submit an assignment to your tutor for marking, do not wait for its return before
starting on the next unit. Always keep to your schedule. Pay serious attention to comments,
corrections e.t.c from your tutor after collecting your assignments. Contact your tutor if you
have problems.
After completing your last unit, review the course and prepare yourself for the final examination.
Check to make sure you have achieved the unit objectives (listed at the beginning of each unit)
and the course objectives (listed to this course guide)
Summary
This course, Non-ruminant animal management intends to strengthen your knowledge on the
history, taxonomy, distribution, methods of production, selection, nutrition, marketing and
processing of poultry, rabbits and pigs.
By the end of this course you will be able to answer endless questions about the management of
non-ruminants. You will be able to:
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of keeping poultry, Rabbits and Pigs
• Compare and contrast the extensive/free range and the intensive system of poultry, rabbit and
pig production.
• Explain the reasons for providing suitable housing for poultry, rabbits and pigs.
• Explain the term ‘nutrition’ and comment on the requirement of Energy, Protein, Minerals,
Vitamins and water in non-ruminants.
• Describe management practices of day-old chicks, growers, layers and broilers in a poultry
farm. The same applies to pigs and rabbits as the case may be.
• Describe the precautions to be taken by poultry, rabbit and pig farmers to prevent the spread
of diseases.
• Discuss common diseases of poultry, rabbit and pigs and their control and prevention.
It is our sincere hope you find the course interesting and very useful. We wish you success in
your studies and your future.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
MODULE 1: POULTRY MANAGEMENT
LIST OF UNITS………………………………………………………………………. 1
UNIT 1 General Introduction to Poultry Management………………………. 9
UNIT 2 Poultry Production Systems……………………………………………. 16
UNIT 3 Feeding Principles of poultry…………………………………………… 26
UNIT4 Incubation and Hatchery Practices……………………………………. 35
UNIT 5 Management of Day old, Growers, Layers and Broilers……………… 44
UNIT 6 Poultry Diseases and their Prevention…………………………………. 50
UNIT 7 Poultry products and Marketing……………………………………….. 58
MODULE 2: RABBIT MANAGEMENT
LIST OF UNITS…………………………………………………………………………. 64
UNIT 1 General Introduction to Rabbit Management…………………………. 71
UNIT 2 principles of feeding rabbits and feed resources………………………. 80
UNIT3 Rabbit Reproduction……………………………………………………. 89
UNIT4 Rabbit Housing and Equipment………………………………………… 97
UNIT5 Husbandry Skills of Rabbit Production……………………………… 106
UNIT6 Rabbit Health and Diseases……………………………………………. 114
UNIT7 Killing and Processing………………………………………………….. 119
MODULE 3: Pig Management
LIST OF UNITS………………………………………………………………………… 126
UNIT1 General Introduction to Pig Management…………………………….. 132
UNIT2 Pig Production Systems…………………………………………………. 142
UNIT3 Principles of feeding pigs and pig resources…………………………… 151
UNIT4 Management of breeding stock, piglets, weaners, Growing
and finishing pigs………………………………………………………. 161
UNIT5 Swine Diseases and their Prevention…………………………………… 171
UNIT6 Swine Processing and Marketing………………………………………. 180
Introduction to Non-Ruminant Animal Management:

Unit 1: General Introduction
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
3.1 Taxonomy of the domestic fowl
3.2 Advantages of poultry keeping
3.3 Disadvantages of poultry keeping
3.4 Problems or constraint of poultry production in Nigeria
3.5 Guidelines to improve poultry production
3.6 Breeds of chickens and their characteristics
3.6.1 Egg type
3.6.2 Meat type
3.6.3 Dual purpose
3.6.4 Rhode Island Red
3.6.5 Leghorn
3.6.6 Light Sussex
3.6.7 Barred Plymouth Rock
3.6.8 Harco
3.6.9 Local breeds
3.6.10 Hybrids
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary
6.0 Tutor Marked Assignment
7.0 References and Further readings
Pig Processing and Making 180

Poultry Management
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main content
3.1 Extensive system/free range
3.2 Advantages
3.3 Disadvantages
3.4 Semi –intensive/restricted range
3.4.1 Advantages
3.4.2 Disadvantages
3.5 Intensive system
3.5.1 Deep litter system
3.5.2 Advantages
3.5.3 Disadvantages
3.6 Battery cage system
3.6.1 Advantages
3.6.2 Disadvantages
3.7 fold system
3.7.1 `Advantages
3.7.2 Disadvantages
3.8 Poultry Housing
3.8.1 General principles of poultry house in the tropics
3.8.2 General guidelines
3.9 Poultry equipment
3.9.1 Maintenance of poultry equipment
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary
6.0 Tutor Marked Assignment (TMA)

Poultry Management
1.0 Introduction`
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main content
3.1 Digestive system of poultry
3.2 Nutrients requirements of poultry
3.2.1 Nutrition
3.2.2 Energy
3.2.3 Proteins
3.2.4 Water
3.2.5 Minerals
3.2.6 Vitamins
3.2.7 Feed additives
3.2.8 Types of poultry feed
3.3 Recommend nutrient allowance for poultry under tropical climatic-
conditions
3.3.1 Feed requirement and body weight of Broilers
3.3.2 Growth rate, feed intake and floor space requirement of pullets
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary
6.0 Tutor Marked assignment

Poultry Management
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main content
3.1 Reproductive system of the hen
3.2 The avian egg
3.2.1 Composition of the egg
3.2.2 Incubation
3.2.3 Essential requirement of artificial incubation
3.3 Operation of the incubator
3.4 Hatching
3.4.1 Hatchability
3.4.2 Factors affecting hatchability
3.4.3 Fertility
3.4.4 Genetic factors
3.4.5 Nutrition
3.4.6 Disease
3.4.7 Egg selection
3.4.8 Management practices
3.5 Sex separation
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary

Poultry Management
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main content

3.1 Management of day old chicks
3.2 Feeding and watering Equipment
3.2.1 Temperature requirement of chicks
3.3 Broiler Management
3.3.1 Signs of a good Broiler
3.4 Management of growers
3.5 Management of layers
3.5.1 Characteristics of good layer
3.6 Calculating Productivity of laying flock
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary
6.0 Tutor Marked assignment

Poultry Management
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main content

3.1 Disease and Disease Prevention
3.2 Diseases of poultry
3.3 Disease Prevention
3.4 Common Diseases of Chicken
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary

Poultry Management
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main content
3.1 Poultry products and marketing
3.1.1 Egg marketing
3.1.2 Egg grading
3.1.3 Exterior qualities used for grading eggs
3.1.4 Interior qualities used for grading eggs
3.1.5 Egg processing and preservation
3.2 Marketing table birds

3.2.1 Processing of table birds
3.2.2 Killing
3.2.3 Scalding
3.2.4 Picking or plucking
3.2.5 Dry plucking
3.2.6 Dressing and Evisceration
3.2.7 Chilling
3.2.8 Storage
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary

Unit 1: General Introduction
1.0 Introduction …………………………………………………………………. 9

2.0 Objectives ………………………………………………………………….. 9
3.0 Main Content…………………………………………………………………. 9
3.1 Taxonomy of the domestic fowl …………………………………………… 9
3.2 Advantages of poultry keeping …………………………………………… 10
3.3 Disadvantages of poultry keeping…………………………………………... 10
3.4 Problems or constraint of poultry production in Nigeria………………… 11
3.5 Guidelines to improve poultry production………………………………… 11
3.6 Breeds of chickens and their characteristics………………………………. 11
3.6.1 Egg type………………………………………………………………………. 11
3.6.2 Meat type…………………………………………………………………….. 11
3.6.3 Dual purpose………………………………………………………………… 11
3.6.4 Rhode Island Red……………………………………………………………. 12
3.6.5 Leghorn………………………………………………………………………. 12
3.6.6 Light Sussex…………………………………………………………………. 12
3.6.7 Barred Plymouth Rock……………………………………………………… 13
3.6.8 Harco…………………………………………………………………………. 14
3.6.9 Local breeds…………………………………………………………………. 14
3.6.10 Hybrids……………………………………………………………………….. 14
4.0 Conclusion……………………………………………………………………. 14
5.0 Summary…………………………………………………………………....... 14
6.0 Tutor Marked Assignment………………………………………………….. 15
7.0 References and Further readings……………………………………………… 15
Introduction to Non - Ruminant Animal Management
1.0 Introduction
What are Non-Ruminants?
Non-ruminant animals are those animals that have simple stomach. They possess no rumen,
reticulum and omasum. They have abomasum as the only true stomach. Examples include
Poultry, Rabbits and pigs.
Meaning of poultry
Poultry generally refers to domesticated birds that are used mainly as food to man. These
include domestic fowl, ducks, turkeys, guinea fowl, pheasant, quails, ostrich, pigeons, doves
etc. many species, breeds and strains of poultry are used in the service of man. Some of these
species are of limited importance examples are guinea fowl, goose, ducks and the ostrich,
others and particularly Gallus domesticus (domestic fowl) have assume a world wide
importance.
Domestic fowl are believed to have been domesticated in Asia around 2500 BC,
Geese in Egypt 1500 BC, turkey in Mexico 2500 BC, ducks in China 2500 BC, Muscovey ducks
were found in Peru in the sixteenth century and were probably domesticated at about that
time. Most modern breeds of poultry were developed from 1850 onwards. Modern breeding
programmes to produce hybrids started in 1950s and 1960s.
2.0 Objectives
By the end of this unit you should be able to:
a) Explain the terms poultry and non-ruminants.
b) Know the advantages and disadvantages of keeping poultry.
c) Understand the problems or constraints of poultry production in Nigeria.
d) Know the guide lines on how to improve Poultry production in Nigeria.
e) Distinguish the different commercial breeds of Chickens and their Characteristics.
3.0 Main Content
3.1 Taxonomy of the domestic fowl

It is important to trace the taxonomy of the domestic chicken in the animal kingdom
considering its importance as a supplier of meat and eggs to ever growing population of the
world.
Below is the taxonomy of the domestic chicken:
Kingdom - Animalia
Phylum - Chordata
Class – Aves
Subclass - Neomithes
Order - Galliformes
Family - Phasinidae
Genus – Gallus
Specie – Gallus domesticus
3.2 Advantages of poultry keeping

1) They have comparatively small body size which makes it reasonably possible to be raised
in a confinement. The success of the extensive range of systems and methods that have
been developed to produce chickens in widely varying environments is an important step
to the success of poultry keepers.
2) There is a low cost of production and quick return from poultry compared to other farm
animals.
3) Poultry meat and egg are high quality animal protein sources. Eggs are the most nutritive
and have the best amino acid profile known to man.
4) Poultry are efficient feed converters to meat and egg (i.e. they have high feed efficiency)
5) Poultry production can be used to minimize the protein intake in-balance in Nigeria.
6) There is excellent product acceptance with respect to social and religious traditions, in
other words no strong taboo against the eating of poultry product, thereby ensuring ready
market for the products.
7) Curative and preventive drugs are available for most poultry diseases.
8) Poultry birds assist in scientific research.
9) Poultry also gives useful by-product like feathers and droppings (feaces).Their droppings
contain more nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium than other animal wastes.
10) From a genetic standpoint, the short inter-generation interval of this species (about 1
year) has favoured the rapid selection of breeds which meet more of the specific demands
of consumers.
3.3 Disadvantages of keeping poultry

1) The digestive tract of birds is relatively short compared to other farm animals and can
only utilize high quality concentrate feeds. These are also use as feed for human making
them to be in direct competition with man.
2) They are highly susceptible to extreme weather conditions and diseases.
Self assessment exercise 1.1

1a. Explain the term ‘non-ruminants’ using suitable examples.
b. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of poultry keeping.
3.4 Problems or constraint of poultry production in Nigeria

1) Because of the competition with man the cost of feed ingredient is high.
2) Housing, diseases and parasitic problems.
3) The nutrient composition of available feed ingredient not well understood.
4) The nutrient requirement of birds for maintenance and production is not well
known.
5) Unavailability of adaptable egg laying and broiler birds.
3.5 Guidelines to improve poultry production

1) Farmers should provide balance ration to improve the birds diet.

2) Farmers should follow sound management practices.
3) Farmers should adopt proper vaccination programmes and effective disease control
measures.
4) Farmers should renew their stock regularly.
5) Farmers should raise birds of imported breed that are more productive.
3.6 Breeds of chickens and their characteristics.

All breeds and varieties of chicken are due to natural selection. Many are
commercially exploited. These include:
3.6.1 Egg type

These are breeds raise for egg production. They have small body size and slow growth rate.
Examples are Harco, Ancona, Rhode island Red, black leghorn white leghorn.
3.6.2 Meat type:

They are breeds raised for meat production. They have large body size, they are also heavy
breed, and they have faster growth rate. Examples are light Sussex, white Sussex, white
Wyandotte, Plymouth rock and Anak.
3.6.3 Dual purpose:

These are birds that are raised for both meat and egg production. Examples are Light Sussex,
Rhode Island Red, Plymouth Rock, New Hampshire etc.
In today’s economic reality, in developed countries dual-purpose breeds are regarded as in
efficient, producing neither meat nor eggs very efficiently. However in Nigeria dual-purpose
birds can be very useful especially in less intensive systems of production.
For example the cocks are used for meat production and the hens for the production of both
eggs and meat. Both are considerably older when slaughtered than are broilers and there fore,
have more flavour.
3.6.4 Rhode Island Red

The Rhode Island red originate from America the feather is red with some black feather in
part of the wing. It has yellow skin and lays large brown eggs.
3.6.5 Leghorn
The white leghorn has white feather and is use mainly for egg production. It is small in size
and lays over 300 white shell eggs in a year.
The brown leghorn produces brown shells eggs and is not as productive as the white leghorn.
3.6.6 Light Sussex

It is an important English breed which grows rapidly. It is large with good fleshing property.
It is good as a broiler but poor as a layer. Some exotic breeds of chicken are shown below.
Fig 1.1 White leghorn

Fig 1.2 White Wyandotte
Source: Poultry - Tropical

Agriculturalist by A. J. Smith, page14 &15
Source: Poultry -
Tropical Agriculturalist by A. J. Smith, page 15
Fig 1.3 Light Sussex
White leghorn
Fig 1.4 Poultry breeds
Source: Livestock rearing in the tropics by I. McDonald and J. Low, page 90
3.6.7 Barred Plymouth Rock

The feather colour is grayish black with white underneath, while the sides are black with
prominent streaks of white spots. They are heavy breeds and are used for dual purpose. They
lay brown eggs.
3.6.8 Harco:
Harco is a heavy American breed and has been commonly used to develop the present day
breeders. It is a good egg laying bird.
Other breeds like the Ancona, Andalusian and Spanish white are all of the Mediterranean
origin and are early maturing between 150-160 days, producing 240-250 white shell eggs per
year.
3.6.9 Local breeds
These are breeds peculiar in the west African sub-region they are generally small with tough
flesh. They are poor layers but good brooders. Their feather varies in colour from white to
black including multi-colour mixtures.
3.6.10 Hybrids
They are commonly seen and use in commercial farms. They are generally high yielding in
both meat and egg production. They are fast replacing most standard birds.
4.0 Conclusion
There are many advantages of keeping poultry, the few problems associated with their
keeping can be corrected by following some few guidelines. Several breeds of chickens are
available and can be commercially exploited.
5.0 Summary
In this unit w have learnt that:

• Poultry generally refers to domesticated birds that are used mainly as food to man. These
include domestic fowl, ducks, turkeys, guinea fowl, pheasant, quails, ostrich, pigeons,
doves etc.
• Advantages of keeping poultry include-their small body size, low cost of production, high
quality protein, feed efficiency, not associated with taboos, useful by-products, short
generation interval and help to improve protein intake.
• Problems associated with poultry keeping includes, feed competition with man, housing,
diseases, parasites and lack of adequate knowledge in their nutrition.
• To improve poultry production we need to improve birds diet, sound management
practices, vaccination programs e.t.c.
• There are several breeds of chickens that are available and all can be exploited
commercially.
1a) List the problems and constraints of poultry production in Nigeria and suggest ways
of their improvement.
b) Name five improved breeds of chickens that are found in Nigeria.
c) Briefly explain the characteristics of any three breeds mentioned above.
Lee, S. and Summers, J. D. (2000) Broiler breeder production.

McDonald, I. and Low, J. (1985) Livestock rearing in the tropics Macmillan education Ltd.
Sainsbury, D. (1992) Poultry Health and Management
Smith, A. J., and Coste, R. (2001) (Poultry) The Tropical Agriculturalist (CTA) Macmillan
Williamson, G. and Paye, W. J. A. (1987) An introduction to Animal husbandry in the
tropics.

Poultry Management
1.0 Introduction……………………………………………………………………....17
2.0 Objectives………………………………………………………………………..17
3.0 Main content……………………………………………………………………..17
3.1 Extensive system/free range……………………………………………….........17
3.2 Advantages……………………………………………………………….............17
3.3 Disadvantages……………………………………………………………………18
3.4 Semi –intensive/restricted range…………………………………………………18
3.4.1 Advantages ………………………………………………………………………19
3.4.2 Disadvantages……………………………………………………………………19
3.5 Intensive system………………………………………………………………….19
3.5.1 Deep litter system………………………………………………………………..19
3.5.2 Advantages………………………………………………………………………20
3.5.3 Disadvantages……………………………………………………………………20
3.6 Battery cage system………………………………………………………...........20
3.6.1 Advantages ……………………………………………………………………...21
3.6.2 Disadvantages…………………………………………………………………….21
3.7 fold system……………………………………………………………………….21
3.7.1 `Advantages……………………………………………………………………...21
3.7.2 Disadvantages……………………………………………………………………21
3.8 Poultry Housing………………………………………………………………….22
3.8.1 General principles of poultry house in the tropics……………………………….22
3.8.2 General guidelines……………………………………………………………….22
3.9 Poultry equipment…………………………………………………………….….23
3.9.1 Maintenance of poultry equipment……………………………………………...24
4.0 Conclusion……………………………………………………………………….24
5.0 Summary…………………………………………………………………………25
6.0 Tutor Marked Assignment (TMA)……………………………………………….25
7.0 References and Further readings………………………………………………...25
1.0 Introduction
There are several production systems employed by poultry farmers in different parts of the
world. Examples include: Extensive or Free range system, Semi-intensive or Restricted
range system and Intensive system. Each of these systems has its merits and demerits.
Poultry of various classes are kept either for meat or egg production. For example white
leghorns are normally used for egg production while broiler strains are based on crosses
between Cornish white, New Hampshire and white Plymouth Rock.
Large poultry units are being increasingly developed in areas of high temperature that are not
traditional to advanced methods of husbandry and special techniques are needed for
satisfactory management of poultry under these conditions.
In a tropical environment the design and construction of poultry houses must take into
consideration the climatic and weather conditions of the environment. The guiding principle
is to keep poultry productive throughout their producing life. This involves the provision of
optimum conditions of temperature, humidity, ventilation and light.
Another important principle relates to design and durability. Poultry house should be
structurally strong, durable, and cheap.
2.0 Objectives
a) Know the different systems used in the production of poultry.
b) Understand the advantages and disadvantages of each production system of
keeping Poultry.
c) Understand the guide lines on how to improve on our Poultry production system
in Nigeria.
d) Distinguish the different commercial breeds of Chicken that are suitable for
each production system based on their Characteristics.
3.0 Main content
3.1 Extensive /free range system

This system involves the rearing of chickens in an open unrestricted environment with or
without artificial shelter. This is the most common system of poultry production in Nigeria. It
has the following advantages
3.2 Advantages
1) Reduce cost of feeding.
2) Nutritional deficiencies rarely occur because of access to green feed, grains, white ants
and other insects.
3) It involves low capital investment.
4) It eliminates cannibalism among the birds.
3.3 Disadvantages
1) Difficulties in controlling birds, especially during disease outbreak, breeding and proper
feeding.
2) Loss of eggs and birds through accidents, theft and predators.
3) Requires large area of land.
3.4 Semi –
intensive/restricted range
system
This system involves the use of
poultry rum which is an area of land
enclosed by fence of wire netting.
The birds are allowed to wonder
about during the day and at night
they are kept in poultry house.
Fig 2.1 Suspended poultry house for about 10 birds

Source: Livestock rearing in the tropics by I. McDonald and J. Low page 92
a)
b)
Fig 2.2 a) Simple chicken house for hot areas for 10 birds.
b) Deep litter house for 200 layers, warm climate
3.4.1 Advantages
This system has the advantages that the birds are under strict control e.g. prevented from
crossing with inferior cocks. The birds are protected from predators and accidents.
3.4.2 Disadvantages
The disadvantages include high cost of production and large space or land requirement.
3.5 Intensive system

3.5.1 Deep litter system.
In the deep litter system, the birds are confined to a large permanent house. The floor is kept
covered with finely cut straw, rice hall or sawdust. Troughs of dry mash and water are always
made available for the birds.
An initial litter layer of 2-3 inches is recommended for young birds, this is build up to 9
inches for the adult birds. The litter is normally renewed ones every year or when it becomes
lumpy. Floor space per bird is 1 square feet or 30.5cm.2
This system can be use to raise broilers and layers. In addition to feeding and water troughs,
perches and nest boxes are provided for the layers.
3.5.2 Advantages
1) No risks of trouble from predators.
2) With proper condition, there is less risk of parasitic infection.
3.5.3. Disadvantages
1) Increase chances of nutrient deficiency especially when bird are not well fed, incidence of
cannibalism also increases.
2) Difficulties of keeping the floor clean especially during the rainy season when humidity is
very high.
3) It involves high capital investment.
4) It predisposes birds to social vices such as fighting, cannibalism, broodiness in laying
birds.
3.6 Battery cage system
The birds are housed or kept in cages within the house. The cages varies in size, type and
form but they are all designed with facilities to provide water and feed as well as egg and
droppings collection. The system is very efficient for raising layers. The cages are either
constructed entirely of wire or wire and wooden frames. Most cages are about 18 inches high
and 8 inches deep. The width of individual cages varies depending on whether they are
designed to hold one, two or more birds(14 inches for one layer or two light breeds).
The floor is of wire mesh to allow droppings drop through. The floor slopes from behind into
which eggs roll as they are laid. The cages are usually arranged in blocks of 3 or 4 tiers. See
fig 2.3a. Modern cages incorporates some forms of mechanical feeding.
Fig. 2.3a
Intensive Battery house fig 2.3bHouse with
a slatted floor
Source: Tropical Agriculturalist by A. J. Smith page 132
3.6.1 Advantages
1) The birds are easy to manage.
2) It is also very easy to cull unproductive birds.

3) Better control of parasites and minimal incidence of diseases.
4) It also prevents cannibalism and broodiness in birds.
5) High production and low mortality rate.
3.6.2 Disadvantages
2) There is need for a well balance ration.
3.7 fold system
The fold system has a house made together with the run to form one unit. This unit can be
moved from one place to another. (see fig 2.4)
Fig 2.4 Fold unit, should be moved daily

Source: Livestock rearing in the tropics by I.
McDonald and J. Low page 92
3.7.1 Advantages
1) The birds can be examine and attended to individually when necessary.
2) The birds dropping improves the soil fertility.
3) Farmers can combine poultry keeping and crop rotation.
4) There is reduced build-up of parasite because the unit can be moved from one place to
another.
3.7.2 Disadvantages
1) The system is only suitable for small or backyard poultry business.
3.8 Poultry Housing

Reasons for providing suitable housing for poultry

1) To protect the birds from bad weather.
2) To protect the birds from thieves and predators.
3) To be able to control the birds.
4) To be able to keep the birds in age group
3.8.1 General principles of poultry housing in the tropics

In a tropical environment the design and construction of poultry houses must take into
consideration the climatic and weather conditions of the environment. The guiding principle
is to keep poultry productive throughout their producing life. This involves the provision of
optimum conditions of temperature, humidity, ventilation and light.
Another important principle relates to cost and durability. Poultry house should be
3.8.2 General guidelines:

The following guide lines will help a poultry farmer in providing simple and adequate
housing for poultry under tropical conditions.
1) External wall should be low(about 0.6m-1m) with a chicken wire mesh(1-2cm) extending
from the wall to height of 2m leaving some margin under the roof for un impeded or free
air flow.
2) The roof should be of corrugated material or thatched.
3) There should be enough roof overhangs to prevent rain from entering the pens.
4) Internal partitions when necessary should be made of wire mesh to aid unrestricted air
circulation.
5) The poultry house should be clear of other buildings or structures which may obstruct the
free flow of air.
6) The poultry house should not be too wide (more than 9m) as this tend to cut down fresh
air movement in and out of pen.
7) The house should be constructed in an east west direction, to protect the birds from the
direct rays of the sun.
8) Water reservoir should be located under shades to prevent excessive heat up of water
during hot days.
9) Stocking density for tropical areas should be 10-20% lighter than the temperate
environment.
10) Poultry houses should be located on a well-drained ground to prevent flood.
11) The poultry house should be accessible by road to facilitate evacuation of produce
or delivery of feed and other supplies.
3.9 Poultry equipment
It is very important that food troughs should not be overfilled and neither should the tube
feeders be too widely opened (fig.2.5 and fig. 2.6) the construction of the food trough is also
important and there exist types that reduce spillage and so reduce food wastage by up to 20
percent. Food wastage can turn a profitable enterprise into one making a considerable loss.
Fig 2.5 Growing birds in pens where the food s is provided in tube feeders
Fig 2.6 Feed trough and suspended feed tray for poultry
Source: Livestock rearing in the tropics by I. McDonald and

J. Low page 98
Table 2.1 Floor space and trough space requirement per 100 chicks
Age (weeks) Floor space (m2) Trough space (m)
0-4 4 1.5
5-8 9 3.0
9-20 12 6.0
For drinkers and food troughs the requirements are

1. It should be impossible to tilt over.
2. It should have adequate size and depth.
3. It should discourage scratching out of contents.
4. It must not cause injury to the bird.
5. It should be cheap and can be constructed locally.
6. It should allow the bird full access and not limit food intake.
3.9.1 Maintenance of poultry equipment
Proper maintenance includes the following:

• cleaning of feeders and drinkers and emptying them every day in case of deep litter
system;
• Complete cleaning using soap and water and if possible disinfectants. This should be
followed by complete drying and disinfection in direct sunlight;
a. Discuss the general principles of poultry housing under tropical conditions.

b. List the qualities of good feeders and drinkers on a poultry farm
4.0 Conclusion
There are several production systems employed by poultry farmers in different parts of the
world, these are Extensive or Free range system, Semi-intensive or Restricted range system
and Intensive system. Each of these systems has its merits and demerits.
However, In a tropical environment the design and construction of poultry houses must take
into consideration the climatic and weather conditions of the environment.
5.0 Summary
In this unit we have learnt that:

• Poultry has proved to be particularly versatile domestic bird that is adapted to almost all
environments and system of production.
• Poultry production makes it an open choice for the farmer to decide which system of
production he is interested based on his capital, skills, and needs.
• In a tropical environment the design and construction of poultry houses must take into
consideration the climatic and weather conditions of the environment.
• The guiding principle is to keep poultry productive throughout their producing life. This
involves the provision of optimum conditions of temperature, humidity, ventilation and
light.
• Another important principle relates to cost and durability. Poultry house should be
• It is very important that food troughs should not be overfilled and neither should the tube
feeders be too widely opened. The construction of the food trough is also important and
there exist types that reduce spillage and so reduce food wastage by up to 20 percent.
• Food wastage can turn a profitable enterprise into one making a considerable los.
6.0 Tutor Marked Assignment (TMA)
1a. Compare and contrast the extensive/free range system

and the intensive system of poultry production.
b. Explain the reasons for providing suitable housing for poultry.

tropics.
roduction to Non-Ruminant Animal Management:

Poultry Management
1.0 Introduction`………………………………………………………………..... 27
2.0 Objectives…………………………………………………………………… 27
3.0 Main content………………………………………………………………… 28
3.1 Digestive system of poultry………………………………………………….. 28
3.2 Nutrients requirements of poultry…………………………………………… 29
3.2.1 Nutrition……………………………………………………………………... 29
3.2.2 Energy……………………………………………………………………….. 29
3.2.3 Proteins………………………………………………………………………. 29
3.2.4 Water………………………………………………………………………… 30
3.2.5 Minerals……………………………………………………………………… 31
3.2.6 Vitamins …………………………………………………………………….. 31
3.2.7 Feed additives………………………………………………………………... 31
3.2.8 Types of poultry feed………………………………………………………... 32
3.3 Recommend nutrient allowance for poultry under tropical climatic
conditions……………………………………………………………………. 32
3.3.1 Feed requirement and body weight of Broilers……………………………… 33
3.3.2 Growth rate, feed intake and floor space requirement of pullets……………. 33
4.0 Conclusion…………………………………………………………………… 34
5.0 Summary…………………………………………………………………….. 34
6.0 Tutor Marked Assignment…………………………………………………. 34
7.0 References and Further readings…………………………………………… 34
1.0 Introduction
The digestive system of the fowl is simple but well-organized. Food is picked up by the beak
and selected on the basis of feel and appearance rather than tastes. However, birds do have a
functional olfactory system and the influence of taste and smell cannot be entirely
overlooked.
To understand the principles behind the feeding of the chicken it is useful to look at the way
the birds digest its food.
Poultry are monogastric they are unable to manufacture essential amino acids or the
B vitamins, and they cannot exist on high fibre diets. The diets of birds which are intensively
housed and which have access to neither soil, grass, nor sunshine must contain the materials
essential for the processes of maintenance, production and reproduction.
The essential nutrients can be conveniently grouped under the following:
• Water
• Carbohydrates sources of
• Fats and oils Energy
• Protein (amino acids)
• Vitamins
• Minerals
2.0 Objectives
a) Understand how digestion takes place in the poultry.

b) Learned the nutritional requirement of poultry in terms of their energy, protein
vitamin and mineral needs.
c) Know the plant and animal sources of proteins and other types of feed available to
poultry.
d) Appreciate the recommended nutrient allowance for poultry under tropical
conditions.
e) Be familiar with growth rate, feed intake and floor space required of pullets,
broilers etc.
3.0 Main Content

3.1 Digestive system of poultry
1. Beak 9. Large intestine

2. Tongue 10. Cloaca
3. Oesophagus 11. Caeca
4. Crop 12. Liver
5.Proventriculus 13. Gall-bladder
s6. Gizzard 14. Pancreas
7. Duodenum 15.Bursa of fabricus
8 Small intestine 16. Bronchus
intintestine 17. Lung
Fig : 3.1
Source: Poultry Health and Management by D. Sainsbury page 24
The fowl is a simple stomach animal. Digestion starts from the mouth. The beak is adapted
for picking of the feed. The tongue is an arrow shaped barbed like structure which forces feed
into the oesophagus. Salivary glands secrete saliva which lubricate the feed and facilitate the
downward movement into crop. The crop act as a storage pouch which retain feed for gradual
passage into the stomach (proventriculus). The feed acted upon by enzymes and amylase
which break down carbohydrate. In the stomach, feed mixed with gastric juice containing
enzyme pepsin and hydrochloric acid. The Pepsin breakdown protein into amino acid. The
feed particles then moves into the gizzard which is a bean shaped strong muscular organ,
which crushes or breakdown feed particles by its rhythmic contraction into pulp. This process
is assisted by the presence of insoluble grit, the feed then passes into the duodenum loop
which is the first part of the small intestine where most of the enzymatic digestions of feed
take place. The pan crease secret various amylotic, proteolitic and lipolitic enzyme into the
duodenum. The liver also produces bile which hydrolyses fats. Digestion is completed in the
small intestine and the nutrients are absorbed through its wall. At the junction of the large and
small intestine are two blind sacks known as caeca. Their main function is for fibre digestion
and water absorption.
Large intestine is also responsible for water absorption and storage of feacal matter or digesta
which passes into the cloaca where they are secreted.
3.2 Nutrients requirements of poultry

3.2.1 Nutrition:
Nutrition is the process which provides nourishment to a living organism. This implies the
provision of certain food elements (nutrients) which the body of the organism absorbs and
uses to perform its normal function associated with life as well as storing the excess in its
tissue. The nutrients required by poultry include:
1) Energy 4) Minerals
2) Protein 5) Water
3) Vitamins
3.2.2 Energy
Energy requirement by poultry are supplied from carbohydrate and lipids. In adverse
condition, protein can also be broken down to supply energy. The energy in poultry is
normally expressed in unit of metabolizable energy per unit weight e.g. kilo joule/gram
(KJ/G) or requirement in terms of metabolizable energy per day (KJ/day).
The metabolizable energy refers to that portion of the feed which is available to the bird for
the production of meat and egg and for the maintenance of vital function and body
temperature.
Birds are usually given free access to feed and they eat to satisfy their energy requirement.
The more increase in energy value of feed the less its intake and the reverse is true.
Sources of energy
Maize; Sorghum; Millet; Wheat; Barley; Maize bran; Wheat bran;
Brewers dried grain (BDG); Cassava; Yam; Vegetable oils (groundnut coconut, soybean
cotton seed e.t.c.)
3.2.3 Protein
Proteins are nitrogen containing compounds. They promote growth and flesh formation.
Proteins are made up of units of amino acids. The synthesis of proteins in the body requires
about twenty different amino acids. Ten of these amino acids can not be synthesis by the
birds and must be provided in the diet.These are termed essential amino acids. Examples
include:
Phenyl alanine; Valine; Threonine; Tryptophan; Isoleucine; Methionine; Histidine;
Arginine; Leucine; Lysine
The non essential amino acids are:
Alamine, Aspartic acid, Glycine, Proline, Hydroxyl praline, Tyrosine, Serine,
Cysteine, Cystine, Glutamine
Of all the essential amino acids. Lysine, methionine and tryptophan are called critical amino
acids because they are the most limiting amino acids in feed stuff.
In general deficiency of essential amino acids leads to poor growth, poor egg production and
low feed utilization.
Sources of proteins
Sources are of two types, plants and animal sources.
Plant sources
Sunflower meal, Palm kernel meal, Soya bean, Bambara nut, Cotton seed cake
Ben seed meal, Bambara nut meal, Locust bean meal, Shear butter meal
Groundnut cake, Soybean meal, Cowpea e.t.c.
Animal sources
Fish meal, Meat meal, Maggot meal, Termite meal, Chicken offal meal, Grasshopper meal,
Feather meal, Meat and bone meal, Blood meal e.t.c.
3.2.4 Water
Water is the most important nutrient of farm animals. The body of chicken is composed of
at least 70% of water so also the egg. It is usually made freely available to poultry.
The water intake of birds varies with age, temperature, size, diet and rate of egg production.
Table 3.1 Estimated water intake (at 21◦C) of chicken of various ages:
Age (week) water intake/100 birds (litre/day)
0 - 2 4 - 5
2 - 5 7 - 10
5 - 10 15
10 - 20 18 - 22
Adult layers 20 - 30
Lack of water can seriously retard growth rate and impaired egg production. In tropical
countries water deprivation can lead to death within a very short period of time
3.2.5 Minerals
Minerals are inorganic substances required by farm animals to build their skeleton and
perform various metabolic function in the body. Minerals are classified into two groups based
on their level of requirement.
1) Macro or major elements which are minerals required in relatively large quantity
which are calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium chlorine and sulphur.
2) Micro or minor elements which are required in small quantities. These are iron, zinc,
copper, molybdenum, selenium, iodine, manganese, cobalt and fluorine.
The major minerals in poultry feeding are calcium and phosphorus.
The common sources of minerals include:
Bone meal
Oyster shell
Limestone
Di calcium phosphate
Common salt
Wood ash
Green grass etc
The micro minerals are usually in corporated as pre-mix in which form they contains most of
the trace minerals in the right proportion required by the various classes of chicken.
3.2.6 Vitamins
Vitamins are organic compounds not synthesis by the body but essential for normal growth
and good health. They are required in small amount. There are thirteen vitamins required by
poultry. They are the fat soluble and water soluble vitamin.
Fat soluble vitamins include:
Vitamin A, D, E, K
Water soluble vitamins include:
Thiamine (B1)
Riboflavin (B2)
Pyridoxine (B6)
Pantothenic acid
Nicotinic acid
Biotin
Folic acid
Cobalamine (B12)
Ascorbic acid
Some of these vitamins are available in green feeds, grains and animal proteins.
All are available in synthetic form (vitamin premix).
3.2.7 Feed additives:

1) Anti oxidants: examples include ethoxyquine or butylated hydroxytoluene at the rate of
112g per tone of feed to prevent oxidation of vulnerable vitamins especially vitamin A.
2) Coccidiostats: This is usually introduced at prophylactic levels in broilers diet according
to the recommendation of the manufacturers. It is completely withdrawn towards the end
of the fattening period
3.2.8 Types of poultry feed

Table 3.2 Types of poultry feed
Classes of poultry Age (weeks) Ration
Broilers 0-6 Broiler starter

Broilers 7-10 Broiler finisher
Layers, Breeders & pullets 0-8 Chicken starter mash
9-16 Growers mash
17 and above layers mash.
3.3 Recommended nutrient allowance for poultry under tropical climatic

conditions.
Table 3.3 Nutrient allowance for poultry under tropical climatic conditions
Nutrients Chicken growers Layers Broiler Broiler
ration ration ration starter finisher
Crude protein 19.5 15.0 16.5 22.0 20.0
(%)
Crude fibre (%) 5.0 6.0 5.0 5.5 5.5
Metabolizable 2700 2650 2600 850 2900
energy(kcal/kg)
Calcium (%) 1.0 0.80 3.20 1.0 0.80
Phosphate (%) 0.45 0.50 0.50 0.70 0.50
Sodium (%) 0.15 0.10 0.15 0.15 0.12
Vitamin A (iu) 5000 3500 4000 5000 3500
Lysine (%) 100 0.65 0.70 1.30 1.10
Methionine 0.40 0.30 0.35 050 0.40
(%)
Tryptophan 0.20 0.15 0.18 0.25 0.20
(%)
3.3.1 Feed requirement and body weight of Broilers

Table 3.4 Feed requirement and body weight of Broilers
Age (weeks) Average Feed requirement/ Feed requirement
weight/bird (Kg) 100 birds (kg) cumulative/100
birds
1 0.036 10 10
2 0.080 18 28
3 0.140 21 49
4 0.200 26 75
5 0.350 39 140
6 0.510 52 166
7 0.90 58 224
8 1.5 67 286
9 2.1 67 358
10 2.5 71 424
3.3.2 Growth rate, feed intake and floor space requirement of pullets
Table 3 .5 Growth rate, feed intake and floor space requirement of pullets
Age week Body weight(g) Feed/bird/Day Floor space cm2/
(gm) bird
1 45 10 232
2 90 16 232
3 126 22 232
6 270 44 464
10 427 63 0.10
15 652 69 0.18
18 780 75 0.30
20 850 79 0.30
Note An average layer would consume 100gm of feed per day or up to 130gm for heavy breeds.
Self assessment exercise1.3
1a) With the aid of a diagram briefly explain the process of digestion and absorption in
poultry.
b) Explain the term ‘nutrition’ and comment on the requirement of Energy, Protein,
Minerals, Vitamins and water in poultry.
4.0 Conclusion.
Poultry nutrients is made up of Water, Carbohydrates, Fats and oils, Proteins (amino acids),
Vitamins and Minerals, when these nutrients are ingested by poultry is capable of
being digested, absorbed and utilized to supply us with eggs and poultry meat.
5.0 Summary.

• The fowl is a simple stomach animal and digestion starts in the mouth, ends in the small
intestine and nutrients are absorbed through its wall.
• Caecum is for digestion of fibre and water absorption, while the large intestine is for
absorption of water and storage of faecal matter.
• Energy required by poultry is supplied from carbohydrates, lipids and sometimes
proteins.
• Essential amino acids are those amino acids that cannot be synthesized by the bird and
must be provided in the diet. In poultry, lysine, methionine and tryptophan are the critical
amino acids because they are the most limiting amino acids in feed stuff.
• Minerals are classified into macro or major and minor or micro elements. Those minerals
required in large quantities are the major or macro minerals while those required in small
quantities are the micro or minor minerals
• 13 vitamins are required by poultry, they are either fat or water soluble.
6.0 Tutor marked assignment
1a) What are proteins, Minerals and Vitamins?
b) Discuss proteins, Minerals and Vitamins under the following:

i) classification
ii) examples of each class
iii) common sources
7.0 References and Further reading

Lee, S and Summers, J. D. (2000) Broiler breeder production.
McDonald, P., Edward, R.A., Greenhalgh, J. F. D. and Morgan, C.A. (1998) Animal
Nutrition 5th edition.
Smith, A. J. and Coste, R. (2001) (Poultry) The Tropical Agriculturalist (CTA) Macmillan
Williamson, G. and Paye, W. J. P. (1987) An introduction to Animal husbandry in the
tropics.

Poultry Management
1.0 Introduction…………………………………………………………… 36
2.0 Objectives……………………………………………………………... 36
3.0 Main content………………………………………………………….. 36
3.1 Reproductive system of the hen………………………………………. 36
3.2 The avian egg……………………………………………………………… 37
3.2.1 Composition of the egg………………………………………………… 37
3.2.2 Incubation……………………………………………………………... 38
3.2.3 Essential requirement of artificial incubation………………………… 38
3.3 Operation of the incubator……………………………………………… 38
3.4 Hatching…………………………………………………………………. 40
3.4.1 Hatchability……………………………………………………………… 40
3.4.2 Factors affecting hatchability…………………………………………… 40
3.4.3 Fertility…………………………………………………………………... 40
3.4.4 Genetic factors…………………………………………………………… 41
3.4.5 Nutrition………………………………………………………………. 41
3.4.6 Disease………………………………………………………………... 41
3.4.7 Egg selection………………………………………………………….. 41
3.4.8 Management practices………………………………………………… 41
3.5 Sex separation…………………………………………………………… 42
4.0 Conclusion……………………………………………………………. 42
5.0 Summary………………………………………………………………… 42
6.0 Tutor Marked Assignment……………………………………………… 42
7.0 References and Further readings ………………………………………… 43
1.0 Introduction
Incubation is the management of fertilized eggs to ensure normal development of embryo
into normal chick. Incubation can be achieved naturally (when the hen sits on the eggs for a
period of time and keeps the eggs warm until hatching) or artificially by using machines
known as incubators which provide the necessary heat until hatching. Some essential
requirements of incubation include temperature, humidity, turning of the eggs, candling e.t.c.
2.0 Objectives
By the end of this unit you should be able:
1. To be familiar with the anatomical features of the hen’s reproductive system.
2. To know the composition of the egg and factors affecting the egg size.
3. To understand the term ‘incubation’ its types, its essential elements as well as the basic
operations of the incubator.
4. To be exposed to the concept of hatchability and it’s application in calculating the overall
productive performance of the farm.
5. To recognized the techniques used in sex separation of young chicks.
3.0 Main Content

3.1 Reproductive system of the hen
infundibulum
magnum
isthmus
shell gland
Fig 4: 1Urogenital and reproductive systems of a laying hen.
The left ovary produces numerous ova. Mature ova are released into the infundibulum where
fertilization takes place. The ovum then migrates down to magnum where it receives its
albumen, then to the isthmus where the shell membranes, some albumen, water and mineral
salts are added. The shell is formed in the uterus for 18-21 hours.
From ovulation to laying takes 24-26 hours.
3.2 The avian egg shell
Chalazae inner shell

Fig 4:2 Diagrammatic representation of an egg
Source: Tropical Agriculturalist by A. J. Smith page159
The avian egg is described as irregular ovoid and it is divided into three main parts
Shell and shell membrane 12%
Albumen and Chalazae 56%
Yolk 32%
3.2.1 Composition of the egg
Nutrients Yolk Albumen Shell

Water 48 86 2
Protein 17 12 5
Fat 33 12 -
Ash 1 1 93
Carbohydrate 1 1 -
Factors affecting Egg size

1) Genetic factors
2) Age of the birds
3) Protein level of the diet
4) Environmental factors
5) Size of the birds
6) Ovum size
7) Intensity of egg laying
3.3 Incubation
Incubation is the process of aiding the
development of a fertilized egg into a life
chick by providing such factors as adequate
temperature, humidity, ventilation and
turning. There are two methods of
incubation.
1) Natural incubation
That is getting the hen to sit on fertilize egg to
incubate the egg.
2) Artificial incubation
Artificial incubation is carried out with incubator using fuels such as kerosene, gas, coal etc.
3.3.1 Essential requirement of artificial incubation
1) Adequate ventilation- there should be sufficient oxygen to supply the respiratory need of
the embryo. Also carbon dioxide resulting from embryonic metabolism should not be
allowed to accumulate.
2) Relative humidity of 60-65% should be provided to prevent excessive water loss by the
egg.
3) Adequate temperature should be provided to ensure that life within the egg is maintained
at the optimum level. The temperature of 37.5◦C is ideal.
4) Turner: There should be a turner to prevent the embryo getting stucked shell. This should
be done at least three times daily.
3.3.2 Operation of the incubator

This is divided into two phases
1) Setting of the eggs 0-18 days.
2) Hatching of the eggs 19-21 days.
Some incubators combine the two operations while others are separate.
The selected eggs are set on trays with the large ends up and placed in the incubator.
Fig 4:3 Eggs in incubating compartments
The temperature requirement during the first week is 38oC, 39oC for the second week and
40oC for the third week.
The relative humidity requirement is 60-65%. There should also be free passage of air in the
incubator. The egg should be turn at least three times daily up to the 18th day. On the seventh
and sixteenth day of incubation the eggs are checked for infertile eggs and dead embryo by
candling. Candling is the process of testing incubated eggs for fertility and development of
the embryo. This is done by holding the egg before a strong shaded light see fig 4.4 or
placing a strong hand torch under the tray.
Fig 4 :4 A simple candling device (Chris Mc Kinnell)
3.4 Hatching
The eggs are moved from the incubator to the hatching compartment on the 18 day. The eggs
are layed (Placed) flat in preparation for hatching. The relative humidity should be higher
(70%) in hatching compartment.
3.4.1 Hatchability
Hatchability refers to percentage of eggs that were hatched, it should be about 80-90% from a
good flock
Hatch of fertile
This refers to percentage of fertile eggs that were hatched.
Hatch of total
This refers to percentage of total eggs that were hatched.
Example: supposing 500eggs were incubated, after 7 days. 450 were found to be fertile. If
400 of the fertile eggs hatched into chicks. Calculate hatch of fertile and hatch of total?
Solution: Total eggs = 500

Fertile eggs = 450
Hatched eggs = 400
%hatch of fertile = 400/450 x 100 = 88.89%
% hatch total = 400/500 x 100 =80.0%
Note:
1) Hatch of fertile is usually higher than hatch of total.
2) Hatch of fertile is more precise because fertility is considered.
3) Hatch of fertile is of practical importance as it refers to the performance of the breeder
stock.
3.4.2 Factors affecting hatchability
There are six factors affecting hatchability.
1) Fertility
2) Genetic
3) Nutrition
4) Diseases
5) Egg selection
6) Management practices
3.4.3 Fertility
Percentage fertility is the percentage of egg that are fertile and should be about 90-95% for a
good flock.
Fertility is affected by the following

a) Mating ratio: mating ratio of 10 : 1 is recommended. If the ratio is higher the fertility of
the egg will be lower.
b) Age of breeders: Fertility declines with age
c) Length of period between mating: A mated hen stores sperm and uses it up to 2 weeks.
Generally it requires 2 weeks after mating the flock before satisfactory fertility is achieved.
The removal of the male from the flock is followed by decline in fertility within 2 weeks and
few if any fertile eggs will be produced after 3 weeks.
3.4.4 Genetic factors

Hatchability is an inherited trait so strains (breeds) that possess high hatchability should be
selected.
i) In-breeding without selection for hatchability has been shown to lower
hatchability in poultry.
ii) Cross breeding usually result in increase hatchability.
iii) Lethal or semi- Lethal genes may affect either fertility, hatchability and
livability (life).
iv) Rate of egg production: Eggs layed by hen producing at a high rate are more fertile
than eggs layed by low producers.
v) Age: Hatchability is maximum half way into the second laying year for females.
While for male is one year after sexual maturity.
3.4.5 Nutrition
The egg must contain the entire nutrients needed by the embryo for development. Breeder
hen must be fed ration which supplies adequate quantities with the nutrients needed for the
embryo to develop.
3.4.6 Disease
Eggs for hatching should be collected from healthy flocks. Disease causing organisms like
Salmonella and Mycoplasma are transmitted from infected hen chiefly through the egg.
Breeding stocks should be tested regularly to prevent infection.
3.4.7 Egg selection

Certain physical characteristics of eggs are related to hatchability among these are size,
weight (50-60g), shape, shell quality and internal quality.
3.4.8 Management practices

Eggs for hatching should be collected immediately and stored below 20oC to arrest
embryonic development. Fertile eggs deteriorate in quality after 4 days.
Fertile eggs should be stored at a temperature around 10oC and humidity 80%. Eggs should
be stored with the broad end upward. Proper hygiene should be maintained in the hatchery.
Eggs should be collected at least 3 times daily. Soiled eggs should be rejected or fumigated
with formaline solution.

1a) What are the factors affecting the size of an egg?
b) In Lamido farm, 5,000 eggs were incubated, after 7 days 4,600 eggs were
Found to be fertile, if 4,200 of the fertile eggs hatched into chicks calculate hatch of
fertile and hatch of total and comment on your result.
c) Discuss in detailed the factors affecting hatchability of poultry eggs.
3.5 Sex separation

The early separation of the sex of young chicks is important economic factor. There are
several ways of sexing chicks
1) By manual vent inspection at day old. At the center of the vent of a male chick is located
a pin edge size structure called the process. This can be easily seen with aid of the
magnifying lens. A female vent shows no such structure.
2) Sexing can also be done when the chicks are five to eight weeks old. Such a separation is
based on larger size combs and wattles, longer tail feathers, stouter shanks, with
prominent scales and generally larger body size in cockerels than in pullets.
3) Sex-linked colour differentiations: for example at day old, golden comet breed have dark
gold coloured pullets while the cockerels look white.
4.0 Conclusion
The avian egg therefore, can be divided into three main parts as shell and shell membranes,
albumen and chalazae and the yolk. The egg can be incubated either naturally or artificially.
Hatchability as well as fertility is affected by genetic factors but again it is management
which go above genetics in its effect.
5.0 Summary
• Factors affecting egg size include; genetic factors, age of the birds, protein level of the
diet, environmental factors, size of the birds, ovum size and intensity of laying.
• The essential requirements of artificial incubation are adequate ventilation, relative
humidity of 60-65%, temperature of 37.5˚C and turning at least three times daily.
• Incubator operation is divided into setting and the hatching phase.
• Hatchability refers to percentage of eggs that were hatched; it should be about 80-90%
from a good flock.
• Factors affecting hatchability are fertility, genetic, nutrition, diseases, egg selection and
management practices.

1a) What do you understand by the term incubation?
b) Explain artificial incubation and its essential requirements.
c) Draw and label (i) the reproductive system of the hen
(ii) the avian egg

tropics.

Poultry Management
1.0 Introduction………………………………………………………………... 45
2.0 Objectives…………………………………………………………………. 45
3.0 Main content………………………………………………………………. 45
3.1 Management of day old chicks…………………………………………… 45
3.2 Feeding and watering Equipment………………………………………… 45
3.2.1 Temperature requirement of chicks……………………………………….. 46
3.3 Broiler Management………………………………………………………. 46
3.3.1 Signs of a good Broiler……………………………………………………. 47
3.4 Management of growers………………………………………………… 47
3.5 Management of layers …………………………………………………….. 47
3.5.1 Characteristics of good layer……………………………………………… 47
3.6 Calculating Productivity of laying flock…………………………………... 48
4.0 Conclusion……………………………………………………………........ 49
5.0 Summary………………………………………………………………….. 49
6.0 Tutor marked assignment………………………………………………… 49
7.0 References and Further readings………………………………………… 49
1.0 Introduction
The management of day old chicks is an important and delicate operation. Any
mismanagement at this stage will show up later as heavy financial loss to the farmer through
excessive mortality, disease outbreak and poor productivity. Growers refers to growing
pullets of 9-20 weeks of age. The birds may be kept in the same pen that was used for the
initial rearing of the chicken but there should be enough floor and feeding space. At this stage
the birds are changed from chick mash to growers mash. Layer is a matured female chicken
meant for egg production. Layers are normally moved to the laying quarters at 18 weeks of
age. They are either reared in battery cages or deep liter. The diet of the birds should be
changed to layer mash.
2.0 Objectives
a). Acquire knowledge and understanding of growth rate and development of birds
under confinement .
b) Recognize a good layer from a bad layer and also signs of a good broiler .
c). Raise birds from day old to table weight for broilers and or point of lay for layers
as the case may be.
d) To better understand the nutritional requirement and approximate daily feed
intake of different classes of birds(Day-old, Growers, Layers, Broilers etc)
3.0 Main Content
3.1 Management of day old chicks

The management of day old chicks is an important and delicate operation. Any
mismanagement at this stage will show up later as heavy financial loss to the farmer through
excessive mortality, disease outbreak and poor productivity. The management starts before
the arrival of the chicks. Two weeks to the arrival of the birds, the brooding pen should be
clean and disinfected. Litter material should be spread to about 6-8 cm. of height.
3.2 Feeding and watering Equipment

Feeding and watering equipment of small sizes should also be provided.
Twenty four hours before the arrival of the birds, brooder should be set to required
temperature(35oC).
Feed and water should be put in place before birds arrival. On arrival dead and weak chicks
should be removed. Chicks destined or meant to be layers should be fed chick starter mash
while broilers should be fed broiler starter mash.
3.3 Temperature requirement of chicks

Table 5.1 Temperature requirement of chicks
Age of chick Temperature
Day old - 1 week 35oC
1 - 2 weeks 30oC
2 - 3 weeks 26oC
3 - 4 weeks 23oC
Brooder space requirement is 40-60 cm2 per chick. Overcrowding of the bird should be
avoided as this can lead to slow growth rate, disease build up, feather and toe pecking, this
can be prevented by debeaking.
3.4 Broiler Management

The broiler is a young chicken of either sex, being intensively fed for meat production. With
good strain, diet and management, they reach market weight of 1.5- 2kg live weight in 8-12
weeks. At this stage their meat is tender, juicy and well flavoured.
The broiler pen should be prepared as above prior to arrival of the chicks. When the broilers
attend the age of 5-6 weeks, they should be transferred to the broiler finisher pen with free air
movement. They should also be changed from broiler starter ration to broiler finisher ration.
The broiler starter is a high protein moderate energy ration, while the broiler finisher is a high
energy moderate protein ration. At this age the birds should average 500-900g in weight and
consume about 58g of feed per day per bird. They should be allowed adequate floor space of
about 0.25cm2 per chick to prevent cannibalism.
Vaccination should be ensured at the right time. Good sanitary condition should be
maintained.
Coccidiostat should be included in their feed which should be withdrawn two weeks to
marketing time. This is to prevent the transfer of the drug to the tissues of the birds and then
further to the consumer. Broilers should have free access to water and feed at all times.
Note
Broilers make economic gains within 10 weeks, beyond 12 weeks, they tend to eat much
more than they gain resulting in lowered profitability. It is therefore essential to market them
at about 8-12 weeks of age.
3.5 Signs of a good Broiler

The sign of a good broiler chicken include
1) Constricted pelvic bone
2) Dry and constricted vent
3) Not very bright comb
3.6 Management of growers

Growers refers to growing pullets of 9-20 weeks of age. The birds may be kept in the same
pen that was used for the initial rearing of the chicken but their should be enough floor and
feeding space. At this stage the birds are changed from chick mash to growers mash. This diet
is lower in protein (15-16%) and energy compared to the chick and broilers mash. This is to
prevent excessive fat deposition by the pullets. The diet need not contain a coccidiostat. Feed
wastage during the growing phase can be a very serious problem. This can be reduced by
using feeds that reduce spillage. They should also be deworm from 16th week.
3.7 Management of layers

Layer is a matured female chicken meant for egg production. Layers are normally moved to
the laying quarters at 18 weeks of age. They are either reared in battery cages or deep liter.
The diet of the birds should be changed to layer mash. This diet is higher in calcium, energy
and protein compared to the growers mash. Two weeks to commencement of laying, level of
calcium in the diet should be increased to 3-4%. This is to enable adequate deposition of
calcium in their bones for use in shell formation when the birds start to lay. The laying birds
should be fed adlibitum because any form of rationing would result in reduced rate of egg
production. There should be adequate water supply. This is because lack of water will result
in decreased egg production and possibly death.
Perches and nests should be provided on deep liter. To stimulate egg production, the length of
artificial day should be increased to 16-18 hours. Eggs should be collected at least twice daily
and properly recorded. The most common management problems in laying flocks are
broodiness and moulting.
3.7.1 Characteristics of good layer

1) Comb is bright red
2) Bright eyes.
3) Pelvic bone- four fingers width
4) Vent – large, soft, moist and oval vent
5) Good layers are very active and alert.
6) They have prominent, soft, smooth wattles.
7) They have worm soiled and close plumage.
8) They have bright red face
Fig 5:1 A simple means of distinguishing laying birds from non laying birds (Courtesy of ATB)
Source: (Poultry) Tropical Agriculturalist by A. J. Smith page 139
3.7.2 Calculating Productivity of laying flock

1. Hen day egg production (HDEP)
This is the number of eggs laid expressed as percentage of the number of layers on hand.
HDEP = Total number of eggs laid / Total number of layers on hand x 100
2. Hen housed egg production:(HHEP)

This is the number of eggs laid expressed as percentage of the number of layers housed at the
initial stage.
HHEP = Total number of eggs laid / Total number of layers housed at beginning of lay x
100

Your tutor should organize a visit to near by poultry farm where can enrich your knowledge
with the practical aspect of poultry management. Have a free interaction with the poultry
farmer. You are expected to be able to answer the following questions.
2a) What are the precautionary measures to be taken in growers’ management?

c) List the signs of good layers and good broilers.
4.0 Conclusion
Chicks may therefore be reared on litter or on the floor from day-old until hey are ready to
enter the laying house. Similarly, broiler chickens are reared from day-old to about 46-70
days in controlled environment house on built-up litter of wood shavings or straw or mixture
of the two types.
5.0 Summary
• In this unit we have studied that:

The management of day old chicks starts two weeks before the arrival of the chicks.
Brooding pen should be clean, disinfected, liter material should be spread to about a
height of 6-8 cm, feeding and watering equipment to be set and temperature set at
35˚C.
• The broiler house should be set as above but the diet should be broiler starter diet and at
the age of 5-6 weeks the birds may be transferred to the broiler finisher pen with free air
movement. The ration should be change to broiler finisher ration.
• The signs of good broiler include constricted pelvic bone, dry constricted vent, an not
very bright comb.
• The growers are between 9-20 weeks of age and their ration should be changed from
chick mash to growers mash, this is to prevent excessive fat deposition.
• Layers are normally moved to laying quarters at the age of 18 weeks either in deep liter or
battery cage system and their diet changed to layers mash.
• The signs of a good layer are bright red comb, bright eyes, pelvic bone with four finger
width, large vent, soft, moist and oval vent, active and alert. Have soft smooth wattles and
bright red face.
•
1a) Describe the management Practices needed for successful management of day-
old chicks in a poultry farm.
b) Compare and contrast the management of a layer in a battery cage to that
of a Layer in a deep liter system.

tropics.

Poultry Management
1.0 Introduction………………………………………………………………… 51
2.0 Objectives…………………………………………………………………….. 51
3.0 Main content………………………………………………………………….. 51
3.1 Disease and Disease Prevention…………………………………………… 51
3.2 Diseases of poultry………………………………………………………… 51
3.3 Disease Prevention………………………………………………………… 52
3.4 Common Diseases of Chicken……………………………………………… 54
4.0 Conclusion……………………………………………………………………. 56
5.0 Summary………………………………………………………………............ 56
6.0 Tutor marked Assignment……………………………………………………. 56
7.0 References and Further readings……………………………………………… 57

1.0 Introduction
Good management built on the foundation of basically sound units and buildings, not only
will disease be far less likely to occur but, in addition, productivity can be enhanced at all
stages.
2.0 Objectives
1. Know how poultry diseases are broadly classified (pathogenic, management, deficiency,
and metabolic) and their examples.
2. Apply practical measures of preventing poultry diseases from spreading.
3. Recognized most important vaccines against some common diseases of poultry in the
tropics.
4. Appreciate the means of transmission, causative agents, signs, prophylaxis and treatment
of some bacterial, viral and parasitic diseases of poultry.
3.0 Main Content
3.1 Disease and Disease Prevention

Disease is any deviation from the normal physiological state of health. It is always better to
prevent a disease than to cure it. It is necessary to aimed at disease prevention by planning a
disease control programme with a veterinarian. Poultry birds should be vaccinated against
prevalent diseases. It is important to maintain strict sanitation practice by cleaning the
poultry house and surroundings regularly. Prevent birds, personnel, vehicles and stray birds
from entering the farm unless disinfection is properly carried out. Where there is an out
break of a disease immediately contact a veterinarian
3.2 Diseases of poultry

Diseases of poultry can be broadly classified into:
a.) Pathogenic diseases :
These are diseases brought about by the presence of one or more pathogenic or causative
organisms.
b.) Management diseases:

Bad management can be caused of pathogenic invasion and can also cause diseases directly
e.g. overcrowding can lead to rapid transfer of disease from sick animals to healthy ones. It
can also cause inadequate access to feed and water. Other examples of poor or bad
management that can lead directly to diseases are
i) Failure to vaccinate at the right time.
ii) Failure to remove dead birds promptly.
iii) Poor or old litter.
iv) Failure to remove droppings regularly
v) Overcrowding
vi) Poor ventilation
vii) Poor incubation hygiene
viii) Uncontrolled access to poultry farms and lack of foot baths
ix) Indiscriminate transfer and mixing of eggs, stock and poultry equipment.
c.) Deficiency diseases

These are diseases caused by lack of one or more essential nutrients needed for growth and
development in the body.
d.) Metabolic diseases

These are group of diseases which are caused by a faulty metabolic process in the body. This
is caused by the absence in the body of certain fat carrying substances resulting in the
accumulation of fat in the liver, intestines, gizzard, kidneys and heart.
3.3 Disease Prevention

The following precautions can be taken by poultry keepers to prevent the spread of diseases.
i) The setting and management of poultry houses: this is very important in any disease
control programme. It is necessary to ensure that birds of different ages are not kept in
close proximity, this is to prevent diseases spreading from older birds to younger
ones.
ii) The poultry house should be thoroughly clean and disinfected and a gap of at least 2
weeks allowed before bringing in a new batch of birds.
iii) Sick birds should also be removed promptly to prevent them becoming a source of
infection to other birds.
iv) Dead birds should be buried or incinerated.
v) Control by vaccination: Birds should be vaccinated against the common diseases in a
locality.
vi) Control by Chemotherapy or prophylaxis: Another way of preventing diseases is by
the use of good management associated with prophylactics such as Coccidiostats and
sulpha drugs.
Table 6.1 The most important vaccinations against common diseases in the tropics:
Disease Vaccination Age of bird
New castle Intra occular Day old
Lasota 3-4 weeks
Komorov 6 weeks
Mareks disease (infectious *MD-Vaccine Day old
bronchitis) *IB- Vaccine *7-10ddays
Via water **2-3 weeks
Or Intra occular again 24 weeks
Infectious bursal disease Gumboro vaccine 10-14 days
(Gumboro) (IBD) 5 weeks
Fowl pox Chicken N.P.X Day old
Fowl pox vaccine 3 weeks
poxine and poxinet
Re- Vaccinate 12-14 weeks
Fowl typhoid fowl typhoid vaccine 4 weeks
Fowl cholera Fowl cholera vaccine 12 weeks
Repeat again 17 weeks
* Broilers * MD Marek’s disease

** Pullets * IB Infectious Bronchitis
3.4 Common Diseases of Chicken

Table 6.2 Common diseases of Chickens
Name Means of causative Signs Prophylaxis Treatment
Transmission Organism
New castle Bird to bird Virus Paralysis Vaccination None
Disease by droplet in difficulty in either dead
air breathing or live
greenish vaccine
diarrhoea
Infectious Bird to bird Virus Respiratory Antibiotics

bronchitis problems Vaccination to control
large secondary
decrease in infections
egg
production.
Fowl cholera Through Bacterium Severe Annual Remove,
or water and . diarrhea vaccination slaughter
pasteurellosis food to nose Blue combs with live and destroy
and mouth and wattles vaccine infected
reduction in birds. Clean
food intake infected
premises
Names Means of Causative Sings Prophylaxis Treatment

Transmission organism.
Marek’s Bird to bird Virus Affected Vaccination None

disease and birds 12-24 Isolation
leukosis weeks old.
Causes
paralysis
and death
of 10-30%
of flock
Fowl pox Mosquitoes Virus Scabs on Vaccination Cull clinically

and other the comb, Isolation affected birds.
biting insects wattles, Vaccinate
and through eyelids uninfected
damaged skin Death ones.
Gumboro By direct Virus Prostration Isolation None

disease contact of birds vaccines are
(infectious especially in Diarrhoea available
bursitis) young birds
Pullorum From hen to Salmonella High death Adult Sulphur drugs

disease chick through bacterium rate in carriers or
egg chicks. should be furazolidone
White removed
diarrhea
Name of Means of Causative Signs Prophylaxis Treatment

Disease transmission organism
Coccidiosis From the Protozoa Watery and Feed Sulphanamide,

droppings of of infected bloody coccidiostat pyrimidine or
infected birds eimeria diarrhea Separate prolium in
spp High death young and water
rate adults

1a) List the poor management practices that can lead to disease in a poultry farm.
b) Describe the precautions to be taken by poultry keepers to prevent the spread of
diseases.
4.0 Conclusion
Diseases of poultry can be broadly classified into pathogenic, management, deficiency and
metabolic diseases, there control and prevention is of paramount importance to ensure both
maximum profitability and productivity.
5.0 Summary
In his unit we have studied that:

• It is always better to prevent a disease than to cure it, this is done through good
management practice, strict sanitation, adequate nutrition vaccination against prevalent
diseases, prompt removal of dead and sick birds,
• The common diseases of poultry in the tropics include: New castle disease, Infectious
bronchitis, Fowl cholera, Mareks disease, Fowl pox, Gumboro disease, pullorum disease
and coccidiosis.

1. Discuss Newcastle, Fowl cholera and Gumboro diseases under the following:
i) Vaccination programme
ii) Causative agents and signs
iii) Means of transmission
iv) Prophylaxis and treatment

Poultry Management
1.0 Introduction……………………………………………………………… 59
2.0 Objectives……………………………………………………………….. 59
3.0 Main content……………………………………………………………. 59
3.1 Poultry products and marketing ………………………………………… 59
3.1.1 Egg marketing …………………………………………………………… 59
3.1.2 Egg grading……………………………………………………………… 59
3.1.3 Exterior qualities used for grading eggs………………………………… 60
3.1.4 Interior qualities used for grading eggs…………………………………… 60
3.1.5 Egg processing and preservation………………………………………… 60
3.2 Marketing table bird………………………………………………………. 60
3.2.1 Processing of table birds……………………………………………… 60
3.2.2 Killing………………………………………………………………… 61
3.2.3 Scalding………………………………………………………………. 61
3.2.4 Picking or plucking……………………………………………………… 61
3.2.5 Dry plucking…………………………………………………………… 61
3.2.6 Dressing and Evisceration………………………………………………… 61
3.2.7 Chilling………………………………………………………………….. 61
3.2.8 Storage…………………………………………………………………... 61
4.0 Conclusion ……………………………………………………………… 63
5.0 Summary………………………………………………………………… 63
6.0 Tutor marked Assignment………………………………………………… 63
7.0 References and Further reading ……………………………………… 63
1.0 Introduction
Any farmer who’s production capacity is more than what he can eat with his family and
relatives, he must fine a market for the surplus otherwise it becomes a burden on him.
The need for poultry meat or egg varies from Country to country and from locality to locality.
The marketing of poultry meat is different from the marketing of poultry eggs.
In developing countries like Nigeria, where there is shortage of animal protein, marketing of
broilers depend on their market price. For farmers near a town or a city, setting the market
price at a level which the consumer will be prepared to pay , will be met with people eager to
buy and disposal of products will not be a problem. For farmers from rural areas that are
away from the main market, the cost of transporting his product to the market may make his
product more expensive with no profit.
2.0 Objectives
By the end of this unit you should be able:
• To understand how the poultry egg are processed preserved over time.
• To be familiar with external and internal egg quality characteristics that are used in
grading of an egg.
• Be aware of the procedure of processing table birds for marketing purposes.
3.0 Main Content

3.1 Poultry products and marketing
It is of no value to produce poultry commodities (egg and Meat) without serious effort to
secure a market for them.
3.2 Egg marketing

The egg is a highly perishable product and if not given proper care between the time it is laid
and time it is consumed, it may deteriorate markedly in several respects for example
• Gross changes in weight as a result of evaporation of moisture through the shell mostly
from the albumen.
• Flavour and odour changes also occur in storage either due to internal chemical changes
or to the absorption of extraneous odour by the egg.
• Relative changes in size and form of egg components such as yolk and albumen can
indicate age in storage.
• Other changes are inter conversion of minerals and organic contents, specific gravity,
permeability, viscosity, gaseous concentration and microbial changes.
3.3 Egg grading

The most important point considered in egg for consumption is quality. In general the interior
and exterior factors are considered.
3.3.1 Exterior qualities used for grading eggs

1. Soundness of shell
2. cleanliness
3. size
4. colour
5. shape and texture
3.3.2 Interior qualities used for grading eggs

1. Condition of the yolk
2. condition of the shell
3. condition of the air cell.
3.4 Egg processing and preservation

Eggs are processed to prolong their keeping or storage life. Methods of prolonging edible life
of an egg include:
i) Prevent contamination with faeces and other dirt
ii) Chilling at temperatures between -0.5oC and -2oC and relative humidity of 88% (can
store for 2-3 months)
iii) Chemical treatments aimed at sealing the shell pores and thus preserving the egg
contents from environmental changes and gaseous diffusion using example. Vegetable
oils, Vaseline, lard, gelatin, agar-agar and alum as coating agents.
iv) Heat treatment: egg can be momentarily (5 seconds) dipped in boiling water to
coagulate the thin film of albumen enclosing the egg membrane.
v) Dehydration: usually applied to the shelled eggs to produce powdered products or
flakes.
3.5 Marketing table birds

Table birds are broilers, old hens cockerels and cocks. They can be marketed live or dressed
and ready to cook. Consumers in the southern part of Nigeria buy very little live poultry but
in the northern part of the country, live birds are commonly sold in the markets.
3.5.1 Processing of table birds.

It involves the following stages:
i) Killing and bleeding.
ii) Scalding
iii) Plucking or picking
iv) Dressing and evisceration.
3.5.2 Killing
Birds are killed by any of the following methods.
i) By hatching off the head from the live chicken.
ii) By cutting the head off with a knife.
iii) By cutting the jugular vein.
After killing, the chicken is allowed to bleed.
3.5.3 Scalding
scalding is the used of hot water (50-55oC) to soften the skin and facilitate the removal of the
feathers.
3.5.4 Picking or plucking

the scalded bird is then de feathered by hand picking. However, in commercial processing
units, mechanical pluckers consisting of rotating drums with several stickers usually of
rubber or plastics are used.
3.5.5 Dry plucking:

Chickens can also be de feathered by plucking of the feathers by plucking of feathers without
scalding. Though laborious the method preserves a good colour of the skin and keeps longer
than scalded carcass.
The birds can also be de feathered by means of fire or Wax plucking.
3.5.6 Dressing and Evisceration

Dressing entails the removal of the head, neck, feet, gizzard, lungs, liver, intestine, crop, legs
and other intestinal tissues. The internal evisceration is done by slitting between the end of
the keel bone and the rectum and then plunging the hand to remove the contents of the body
cavity. The dressed chicken is sold whole or in parts.
3.5.7 Chilling:
Dressed chickens are usually chilled to prevent bacterial growth and enzymatic activities.
This is achieved by placing the carcass in a cold chamber with temperature of 1-5oC.
3.5.8 Storage:
The temperature depends on the length of time that the carcass are to be stored. For a day or
two temperature of 2oC is ideal. If for a long period of time, they should be frozen to
-5oC to -18oC.
In Nigeria the prices of poultry products is determine by the forces of demand and supply. A
typical market organization of poultry products in a developing economy is as follows:
super markets
a) Table Birds *Packaging
*Packing
Producer Abattoir *Cold stores
farms * Ware Consumer
house
Cooperative
b) Marketing eggs
Packaging
house Super markets
Producer Cold stores consumer
Farms
Ware house
Cooperative stores
Fig. 7.2 Diagrammatic representation of marketing table birds and eggs
In underdeveloped economy like Nigeria, the scheme represented above does not operate.
Consequently there are no accurate trends on production, supply and demand; price changes
are violent and difficult to control. Couple with this , the poor cold storage facilities makes
the handling of poultry products precarious and the prices unstable.
Your tutor should organize a visit to a poultry farm where you will have the opportunity to
enrich your knowledge on the practical aspect of poultry management.
1a) Briefly explain how table birds are processed and marketed.
4.0 Conclusion
In developing countries like Nigeria, where there is shortage of animal protein, marketing of
broilers depend on their market price. For farmers near a town or a city, setting the market
price at a level which the consumer will be prepared to pay , will be met with people eager to
buy and disposal of products will not be a problem. For farmers from rural areas that are
away from the main market, the cost of transporting his product to the market may make his
product more expensive with no profit.
It is therefore of no value to produce poultry commodities (egg and Meat) without serious
effort to secure a market for them.
5.0 Summary
In this unit we learnt that:

• Egg shelf life deteriorates over time causing gross changes in weight, flavour and odour
changes, relative changes in size and form also inter conversion of minerals and organic
contents.
• Methods of prolonging edible life of an egg are prevention of contamination with faeces
and dirt, chilling at -0.5˚C and -2˚C and relative humidity of 88%, sealing the hell pores
with vegetable oil or vaseline, heat treatment etc.
• Exterior qualities used for egg grading are soundness of shell, cleanliness, size, shape and
texture while interior qualities include conditions of yolk, shell and air cell.
• Table birds can be marketed live or dressed and they are processed by killing, bleeding,
scalding, plucking, dressing and evisceration.
6.0 Tutor marked Assignment
1a) Explain how the avian egg is processed and preserved over time.
b) List all the interior and exterior egg qualities used for grading eggs.
Lee, S. and Summers, J. D. (2000) Boiler breeder production.

McDonald, I. and Low, J.(1985) Livestock rearing in the tropics Macmillan education Ltd.
Smith, A. J. and Coste, R (2001) (Poultry) The Tropical Agriculturalist (CTA) Macmillan

Unit 1: General introduction to Rabbit Management
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
3.1 Advantages of keeping rabbits
3.2 Disadvantages of rabbit keeping
3.3 Problems or Constrains of rabbits production in Nigeria
3.4 Biological classification (taxonomy)
3.5 Commonly used terminologies
3.6 Breeds of rabbits
3.6.1 California breed
3.6.2 New Zealand white
3.6.3 American chin chilla
3.6.4 Dutch
3.6.5 Flemish giant
3.6.6 New Zealand red
3.6.7 Comparison between some popular breeds
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary
7.0 Reference and Further reading

Rabbit Management
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
3.1 The digestive system and nutrient utilization
3.2 Mouth and teeth
3.3 Stomach and small intestine
3.4 Caecum and large intestine
3.5 Nutrient requirement of rabbits
3.5.1 Water
3.5.2 Protein
3.5.3 Energy
3.5.4 Fats
3.5.5 Carbohydrates
3.5.6 Fibre
3.5.7 Minerals
3.5.8 Vitamins
3.6 Caecotrophy
3.7 Feeds and feeding
3.7.1 Feeding systems
3.8 Feeding skills
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary

Rabbit Management
0.1 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
3.1 Male and female reproductive system
3.2 The female reproductive system consists of the following parts
3.3 The male reproductive system
3.4 Selection for breeding
3.4.1 Mating
3.4.2 Pregnancy
3.4.3 Kindling
3.4.4 Sexing
3.4.5 Weaning
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary

Rabbit Management
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
3.1 Housing requirements
3.2 Types of housing
3.2.1 Indoor hutches
3.2.1 Out door rabbit hutch
3.3 Floor methods of housing
3.4 Hutch equipment
3.4.1 Equipment requirements
3.4.2 Maintenance of hutches and equipment
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary

Rabbit Management
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
3.1 Husbandry skills
3.1.1 Observation
3.1.2 Rabbit examination
3.1.3 Weighing
3.1.4 Nail trimming
3.1.5 Identification
3.1.6 Writing in the ear
3.1.7 Labels
3.1.8 Ear-notching
3.2 Record keeping and analysis
3.3 Financial records
3.4 Animal record
3.5 First aid
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary

Rabbit Management
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
3.1 Signs of a healthy rabbit

3.2 Conditions that make a rabbit susceptible to disease include
3.3 Stress
3.3.1 How to minimize major stresses
3.4 Preventive measures for common diseases
3.5 Internal parasites
3.5.1 Coccidiosis
3.6 External parasites
3.6.1 Ear mange or skin mange
3.7 Snuffles
3.8 Myxomatosis
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary

Rabbit Management
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
3.1 Requirement for slaughter and processing
3.2 Killing procedure
3.2.1 Neck breaking

3.2.2 Stunning method
3.2.3 Skinning
3.2.4 Cleaning
3.3 Rabbit meat
3.4 Cooking
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary

1.0 Introduction…………………………………………………………………... ….
72
2.0 Objectives………………………………………………………………………...
72
3.0 Main Content……………………………………………………………………..
72
3.1 Advantages of keeping rabbits……………………………………………………
72
3.2 Disadvantages of rabbit keeping………………………………………………….
73
3.3 Problems or Constrains of rabbits production in Nigeria……………………. …...
73
3.4 Biological classification (taxonomy)………………………………………………
73
3.5 Commonly used terminologies……………………………………………………...
74
3.6 Breeds of rabbits………………………………………………………….………...
74
3.6.1 California breed……………………………………………………………………...
74
3.6.2 New Zealand white……………………………………………………………………
75
3.6.3 American chin chilla…………………………………………………………………..
75
3.6.4 Dutch……………………………………………………………………………………
76
3.6.5 Flemish giant……………………………………………………………………………
76
3.6.6 New Zealand red………………………………………………………………………
77
3.6.7 Comparison between some popular breeds …………………………………………..
78
4.0 Conclusion……………………………………………………………………………
79
5.0 Summary……………………………………………………………………………..
79
6.0 Tutor marked assignment…………………………………………………………….
79
7.0 Reference and Further reading……………………………………………………….
79
1.0 Introduction
Rabbit are used for meat, for vocational projects, as laboratory animals, as teaching tool, as
animal research model and for pets. Because of their use in a wide range of enterprises, it is
necessary to have a good knowledge of the different aspect of their management and
nutrition. The domestic rabbit descended from wild rabbit found in the Mediterranean
countries and was introduced in to England in the late 11th and early 12th century. The
different breeds of modern domestic rabbit have evolved as far back as the 18th century. In
early 1960, united state department of Agriculture (USDA) was involve in introducing more
rabbit to western states of Nigeria. Rabbit can be quickly grown and are a cheap source of
protein. They can be reared for consumption or commercial undertaking.
2.0 Objectives
By the end of this unit you will be able:

• To understand the advantages and disadvantages of keeping rabbits.
• To be familiar with the problems or constraints of rabbit production in Nigeria.
• To know the guidelines of promoting rabbit production.
• To know the different breeds of rabbits, their physical characteristics and their
comparison.
3.0 Main Content
1) They have fairly small body size which makes it relatively possible to be
raised in a confinement. There is a low cost of production in other words starting
requires modest production compared to other farm animals.
2) Rabbit meat is of high quality animal protein which can be relied upon where other
protein sources are absent.
3) Rabbit are efficient feed converters to high quality protein, they uses local forages
and food wastes that are of no direct value to humans.
4) Rabbit production can be use to minimize the protein intake in-balance in Nigeria.
5) There is excellent product acceptance with respect to social and religious traditions in
other words it is not restricted by any strong taboos or particular beliefs that prevent
the eating of rabbit meat or its promotion as food.
6) Curative and preventive drugs are available for most rabbit diseases.
7) Rabbit is a small body size animal and convenient for ‘one meal size’ with no need
for storage.
8) Rabbit also gives useful by-product like the fur which is useful for making
cardigans.
9) It is an attractive animal for handicapped children who enjoy being involve in its care
and management.
10) Rabbit is a suitable animal for learning basic skills for animal husbandry ; it responds
to careful handling but can withstand the sometimes rough handling of the beginner. It
also lend itself to simple recordkeeping e.g. of weekly live weight gain and
reproduction and so can introduce the idea of management recording to new students
of animal production.

1) Rabbits are highly vulnerable to prey like how persistent a dog can be when trying to
break into a rabbit hutch. This constitutes a challenge to the farmer.
2) Rabbit production is not easy it takes a great deal of skill, a lot of hard work and
a lot of food.
3.3 Problems or Constrains of rabbit production in Nigeria
1. Most people are not ready for rabbit production that demand daily care and attention and
many don’t see the reasons for keeping the rabbits anyway.
2. Most people are not aware of the skills needed in rabbit production.
3. Unavailability of improved parent stock that are adaptable to our local conditions
Guidelines on promoting rabbit production

Two methods of promoting rabbits include formation of rabbit clubs or groups and
organizing competitions, some of the suggestions is to study the people and the situation; for
instance, are the people ready for rabbit that demand daily care and attention or they rather go
for another animal? consult with village leaders to get their approval and explain your plans
for a meeting with interested people. Encourage an open discussion and agree on the
objectives of the club and the reasons for keeping the rabbits. Don’t talk about rabbits all the
time, consider inviting extension officer or other suitable organization to act as an adviser.
Don’t be disappointed if a club fails; think why it didn’t succeed and in a few months try
again, perhaps with other people in a different village.
Competitions are a useful method of encouraging good rabbit husbandry. People always like
to be the best; the best hutch builder, the best rabbit keeper the best rabbit skinner and
cleaner, the owner of the best rabbit e.t.c.

Kingdom Animalia
Phylum Chordate
Sub-phylum Vertebrata
Class Mammalia
Order legomorpha
Family Leporidae
Genus Oryctolagus
Specie Oryctolagus cuniculus

Buck - mature male rabbit
Doe - mature female rabbit
Littler or kittens – young or new born
Caecotrophy- the practice of eating a type of faecal pellet produced in the caecum of
the large intestine
Common international
breeds of rabbit
This is the second most

popular breed for meat
production. The colour is all
white but with black tipping
on the nose, ears, feet and tail. The weight range for the mature Californian is 3-4.5 kg fig 1.1
Fig. 1.1California breed

Source (Rabbits) The Tropical Agriculturalist by D. Fielding, A. J. Smith, and R. Coste page 99
This breed is the one used most widely throughout the world for meat production. It is all
white in colour and usually weighs 3-5 kg when mature. Fig.1.2
fig1.2 New Zealand white breed

Source: (Rabbits) The Tropical Agriculturalist by D. Fielding, A. J. Smith, and R. Coste Page 99
This breed is blue-grey in colour with a white belly. It has a characteristic ruff or dewlap.
This is a thick fold of skin around the front of the chest which is very obvious when the rabit
is in good condition and sitting in a resting position. The weight range for the mature
Chinchilla is 3-4.5 kg. Fig 1.3
Fig. 1.3 American chin chilla

3.6.4 Dutch
The Dutch is a
small breed with a
mature live weight
of 2.5-3.5 kg. It has a
wide white band
of fur around its
body at the
shoulders as well as a white stripe down the middle of its face. Its front feet fall within the
white and the tips of its back feet are also white. See fig.1.4
Fig 1.4 Dutch
3.6.5 Flemish giant

This is a giant breed which at maturity can weigh well over 6 kg. It is usually light grey in
colour but may also be sandy blue or white. This is not a suitable breed for the beginner.
Fig 1.5Flemish giant

3.6.6
Ne
Zealand
red
This breed is essentially a red New Zealand white type which has not been as intensively
selected for growth rate. Mature live weight is lower than the white type, at 3-4.5 kg.
Fig 1.6New Zealand red

Other breeds
There are over 40 recognized breeds of domesticated rabbit in the world. Other common
breeds include Champagne d’ argent, English spot, Simon ire, Lop e.t.c.
3.6.7 Comparison between some popular breeds of medium and heavy

Weight of rabbits
Table 1: Comparison between some popular breeds of medium and heavy weight
rabbits
Breeds Weight at maturity Litters/doe/year Body colour
(kg)
California 3.5-5.0 48 The colour is all
white but with black
tipping on the nose,
ears, feet and tail.
New Zealand 4.1-5.4 50 It is all white in
White colour
American- 4.1-5.5 38 This breed is blue-
chinchilla grey in colour with
a white belly. It has
a characteristic ruff
or dewlap.
Dutch 2.5-3.5 45-48 It has a wide white
band of fur around
its body at the

shoulders, face, font
feet and tips of its
back.
Flemish giant 5.9-7.3 36 It is usually light

grey in colour but
may also be sandy
blue or white.

1.) In a tabular form compare the medium and heavy weight breeds of rabbits based on
their weight, litters/doe/year, and body colour
4.0 Conclusion
Rabbits grow quickly and are cheap source of protein, they have many advantages, several
breeds of them are available and can be reared for consumption or commercial undertaking.
5.0 Summary
• Rabbit are used for meat, for vocational projects, as laboratory animals, as teaching tool,
as animal research model and for pets.
• Advantages of keeping rabbits include relatively small body size, meat is of high quality
animal protein, efficient feed converters to high quality protein, can be use to minimize
the protein intake in-balance in Nigeria, excellent product acceptance, useful by-product,
suitable animal for learning basic skills for animal husbandry e.t.c.
• The few disadvantages are vulnerability to prey, and Rabbit production is not easy it takes
a great deal of skill, a lot of hard work and a lot of food.
• Constrains of rabbits production in Nigeria include the needed demand of daily care and
attention, lack of awareness of the skills needed in rabbit production, Unavailability of
improved parent stock e.t.c.
• Guidelines on promoting rabbit production are formation of rabbit clubs or groups and
organizing competitions.
• Common international breeds of rabbit include California breed, New Zealand white and
red, American chin chilla, Dutch breed, Flemish giant, Champagne d’ argent, English
spot, Simon ire, and Lop.
•
1a) Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of keeping rabbits.

b) How do you promote rabbit production in Nigeria?
c) Mentioned six breeds of international origin found in Nigeria and explain the
characteristics of any three.
.
Fielding, D., Smith, A. J. and Coste, R. (1991) (Rabbits) The Tropical Agriculturalist (CTA)
Macmillan

1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
3.3 Problems or Constrains of rabbits production in Nigeria
3.6.4 Dutch
3.6.5 Flemish giant
3.6.6 New Zealand red
3.6.7 Comparison between some popular breeds
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary
7.0 Reference and Further reading

Rabbit Management
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
3.2 Mouth and teeth
3.5.1 Water
3.5.2 Protein
3.5.3 Energy
3.5.4 Fats
3.5.5 Carbohydrates
3.5.6 Fibre
3.5.7 Minerals
3.5.8 Vitamins
3.6 Caecotrophy
3.8 Feeding skills
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary

Rabbit Management
0.1 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
3.4.1 Mating
3.4.2 Pregnancy
3.4.3 Kindling
3.4.4 Sexing
3.4.5 Weaning
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary

Rabbit Management
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
3.4 Hutch equipment
3.4.1 Equipment requirements
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary

Rabbit Management
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
3.1.1 Observation
3.1.3 Weighing
3.1.4 Nail trimming
3.1.7 Labels
3.1.8 Ear-notching
3.4 Animal record
3.5 First aid
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary

Rabbit Management
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content

3.3 Stress
3.5.1 Coccidiosis
3.7 Snuffles
3.8 Myxomatosis
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary

Rabbit Management
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
3.2.1 Neck breaking

3.2.3 Skinning
3.2.4 Cleaning
3.3 Rabbit meat
3.4 Cooking
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary

1.0 Introduction…………………………………………………………………... ….
72
2.0 Objectives………………………………………………………………………...
72
3.0 Main Content……………………………………………………………………..
72
3.1 Advantages of keeping rabbits……………………………………………………
72
3.2 Disadvantages of rabbit keeping………………………………………………….
73
3.3 Problems or Constrains of rabbits production in Nigeria……………………. …...
73
3.4 Biological classification (taxonomy)………………………………………………
73
3.5 Commonly used terminologies……………………………………………………...
74
3.6 Breeds of rabbits………………………………………………………….………...
74
3.6.1 California breed……………………………………………………………………...
74
3.6.2 New Zealand white……………………………………………………………………
75
3.6.3 American chin chilla…………………………………………………………………..
75
3.6.4 Dutch……………………………………………………………………………………
76
3.6.5 Flemish giant……………………………………………………………………………
76
3.6.6 New Zealand red………………………………………………………………………
77
3.6.7 Comparison between some popular breeds …………………………………………..
78
4.0 Conclusion……………………………………………………………………………
79
5.0 Summary……………………………………………………………………………..
79
6.0 Tutor marked assignment…………………………………………………………….
79
7.0 Reference and Further reading……………………………………………………….
79
1.0 Introduction
Rabbit are used for meat, for vocational projects, as laboratory animals, as teaching tool, as
animal research model and for pets. Because of their use in a wide range of enterprises, it is
necessary to have a good knowledge of the different aspect of their management and
nutrition. The domestic rabbit descended from wild rabbit found in the Mediterranean
countries and was introduced in to England in the late 11th and early 12th century. The
different breeds of modern domestic rabbit have evolved as far back as the 18th century. In
early 1960, united state department of Agriculture (USDA) was involve in introducing more
rabbit to western states of Nigeria. Rabbit can be quickly grown and are a cheap source of
protein. They can be reared for consumption or commercial undertaking.
3.0 Objectives
By the end of this unit you will be able:

• To understand the advantages and disadvantages of keeping rabbits.
• To be familiar with the problems or constraints of rabbit production in Nigeria.
• To know the guidelines of promoting rabbit production.
• To know the different breeds of rabbits, their physical characteristics and their
comparison.
3.0 Main Content
1) They have fairly small body size which makes it relatively possible to be
raised in a confinement. There is a low cost of production in other words starting
requires modest production compared to other farm animals.
2) Rabbit meat is of high quality animal protein which can be relied upon where other
protein sources are absent.
3) Rabbit are efficient feed converters to high quality protein, they uses local forages
and food wastes that are of no direct value to humans.
4) Rabbit production can be use to minimize the protein intake in-balance in Nigeria.
5) There is excellent product acceptance with respect to social and religious traditions in
other words it is not restricted by any strong taboos or particular beliefs that prevent
the eating of rabbit meat or its promotion as food.
6) Curative and preventive drugs are available for most rabbit diseases.
7) Rabbit is a small body size animal and convenient for ‘one meal size’ with no need
for storage.
8) Rabbit also gives useful by-product like the fur which is useful for making
cardigans.
9) It is an attractive animal for handicapped children who enjoy being involve in its care
and management.
10) Rabbit is a suitable animal for learning basic skills for animal husbandry ; it responds
to careful handling but can withstand the sometimes rough handling of the beginner. It
also lend itself to simple recordkeeping e.g. of weekly live weight gain and
reproduction and so can introduce the idea of management recording to new students
of animal production.

1) Rabbits are highly vulnerable to prey like how persistent a dog can be when trying to
break into a rabbit hutch. This constitutes a challenge to the farmer.
2) Rabbit production is not easy it takes a great deal of skill, a lot of hard work and
a lot of food.
3.3 Problems or Constrains of rabbit production in Nigeria
4. Most people are not ready for rabbit production that demand daily care and attention and
many don’t see the reasons for keeping the rabbits anyway.
5. Most people are not aware of the skills needed in rabbit production.
6. Unavailability of improved parent stock that are adaptable to our local conditions
Guidelines on promoting rabbit production

Two methods of promoting rabbits include formation of rabbit clubs or groups and
organizing competitions, some of the suggestions is to study the people and the situation; for
instance, are the people ready for rabbit that demand daily care and attention or they rather go
for another animal? consult with village leaders to get their approval and explain your plans
for a meeting with interested people. Encourage an open discussion and agree on the
objectives of the club and the reasons for keeping the rabbits. Don’t talk about rabbits all the
time, consider inviting extension officer or other suitable organization to act as an adviser.
Don’t be disappointed if a club fails; think why it didn’t succeed and in a few months try
again, perhaps with other people in a different village.
Competitions are a useful method of encouraging good rabbit husbandry. People always like
to be the best; the best hutch builder, the best rabbit keeper the best rabbit skinner and
cleaner, the owner of the best rabbit e.t.c.

Kingdom Animalia
Phylum Chordate
Sub-phylum Vertebrata
Class Mammalia
Order legomorpha
Family Leporidae
Genus Oryctolagus
Specie Oryctolagus cuniculus

Buck - mature male rabbit
Doe - mature female rabbit
Littler or kittens – young or new born
Caecotrophy- the practice of eating a type of faecal pellet produced in the caecum of
the large intestine
Common international
breeds of rabbit
This is the second most

popular breed for meat
production. The colour is all
white but with black tipping
on the nose, ears, feet and tail. The weight range for the mature Californian is 3-4.5 kg fig 1.1
Fig. 1.1California breed

Source (Rabbits) The Tropical Agriculturalist by D. Fielding, A. J. Smith, and R. Coste page 99
This breed is the one used most widely throughout the world for meat production. It is all
white in colour and usually weighs 3-5 kg when mature. Fig.1.2
fig1.2 New Zealand white breed

This breed is blue-grey in colour with a white belly. It has a characteristic ruff or dewlap.
This is a thick fold of skin around the front of the chest which is very obvious when the rabit
is in good condition and sitting in a resting position. The weight range for the mature
Chinchilla is 3-4.5 kg. Fig 1.3
Fig. 1.3 American chin chilla

3.6.4 Dutch
The Dutch is a
small breed with a
mature live weight
of 2.5-3.5 kg. It has a
wide white band
of fur around its
body at the
shoulders as well as a white stripe down the middle of its face. Its front feet fall within the
white and the tips of its back feet are also white. See fig.1.4
Fig 1.4 Dutch
3.6.5 Flemish giant

This is a giant breed which at maturity can weigh well over 6 kg. It is usually light grey in
colour but may also be sandy blue or white. This is not a suitable breed for the beginner.
Fig 1.5Flemish giant

3.6.6
Ne
Zealand
red
This breed is essentially a red New Zealand white type which has not been as intensively
selected for growth rate. Mature live weight is lower than the white type, at 3-4.5 kg.
Fig 1.6New Zealand red

Other breeds
There are over 40 recognized breeds of domesticated rabbit in the world. Other common
breeds include Champagne d’ argent, English spot, Simon ire, Lop e.t.c.
3.6.8 Comparison between some popular breeds of medium and heavy

Weight of rabbits
Table 1: Comparison between some popular breeds of medium and heavy weight
rabbits
Breeds Weight at maturity Litters/doe/year Body colour
(kg)
California 3.5-5.0 48 The colour is all
white but with black
tipping on the nose,
ears, feet and tail.
New Zealand 4.1-5.4 50 It is all white in
White colour
American- 4.1-5.5 38 This breed is blue-
chinchilla grey in colour with
a white belly. It has
a characteristic ruff
or dewlap.
Dutch 2.5-3.5 45-48 It has a wide white
band of fur around
its body at the

shoulders, face, font
feet and tips of its
back.
Flemish giant 5.9-7.3 36 It is usually light

grey in colour but
may also be sandy
blue or white.

1.) In a tabular form compare the medium and heavy weight breeds of rabbits based on
their weight, litters/doe/year, and body colour
4.0 Conclusion
Rabbits grow quickly and are cheap source of protein, they have many advantages, several
breeds of them are available and can be reared for consumption or commercial undertaking.
5.0 Summary
• Rabbit are used for meat, for vocational projects, as laboratory animals, as teaching tool,
as animal research model and for pets.
• Advantages of keeping rabbits include relatively small body size, meat is of high quality
animal protein, efficient feed converters to high quality protein, can be use to minimize
the protein intake in-balance in Nigeria, excellent product acceptance, useful by-product,
suitable animal for learning basic skills for animal husbandry e.t.c.
• The few disadvantages are vulnerability to prey, and Rabbit production is not easy it takes
a great deal of skill, a lot of hard work and a lot of food.
• Constrains of rabbits production in Nigeria include the needed demand of daily care and
attention, lack of awareness of the skills needed in rabbit production, Unavailability of
improved parent stock e.t.c.
• Guidelines on promoting rabbit production are formation of rabbit clubs or groups and
organizing competitions.
• Common international breeds of rabbit include California breed, New Zealand white and
red, American chin chilla, Dutch breed, Flemish giant, Champagne d’ argent, English
spot, Simon ire, and Lop.
•
1a) Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of keeping rabbits.

d) How do you promote rabbit production in Nigeria?
e) Mentioned six breeds of international origin found in Nigeria and explain the
characteristics of any three.
.
Macmillan

Rabbit Management
1.0 Introduction…………………………………………………………………… 81
2.0 Objectives…………………………………………………………………….. 81
3.0 Main Content…………………………………………………………………. 81
3.1 The digestive system and nutrient utilization………………………………… 81
3.2 Mouth and teeth……………………………………………………………… 82
3.3 Stomach and small intestine…………………………………………………. 82
3.4 Caecum and large intestine…………………………………………………… 82
3.5 Nutrient requirement of rabbits………………………………………………. 83
3.5.1 Water ……………………………………………………………………….. 83
3.5.2 Protein ……………………………………………………………………… 83
3.5.3 Energy………………………………………………………………………. 84
3.5.4 Fats …………………………………………………………………………. 84
3.5.5 Carbohydrates ……………………………………………………………….. 84
3.5.6 Fibre………………………………………………………………………….. 84
3.5.7 Minerals…………………………………………………………………........ 84
3.5.8 Vitamins……………………………………………………………………… 84
3.6 Caecotrophy………………………………………………………………… 85
3.7 Feeds and feeding ……………………………………………………………. 85
3.7.1 Feeding systems………………………………………………………………. 86
3.8 Feeding skills…………………………………………………………………. 87
4.0 Conclusion……………………………………………………………………. 87
5.0 Summary……………………………………………………………………… 87
6.0 Tutor Marked Assignment…………………………………………………… 88
7.0 References and Further readings……………………………………………... 88
1.0 Introduction
Rabbit nutrition is the single most important aspect of production, well-nourished rabbits can
better resist diseases and recover from
environmental stresses and any shortcomings
by the producer.
2.0 Objectives
By the end of this unit you will be able

• To familiarized yourself with the anatomical features of the digestive system of the rabbit
and it’s role in nutrient utilization.
• To know the sources of rabbit nutrients like protein, energy, fats, carbohydrates, fibre,
minerals, vitamins and their requirements.
• To be familiar with the concept of ‘caecotophy’ and its significance in rabbit digestion.
• To understand the three feeding systems of the rabbit and their merits and de-merits
3.0 Main Content
liver
Fig 2.1The digestive system of the rabbit

Source: (Rabbits) The Tropical Agriculturalist by D. Fielding, A. J. Smith, and R. Coste page 13
Fig2.2 Mouth and teeth
3.2 Mouth and teeth
The rabbit’s teeth is shown on fig.2.2 the incisors are for cutting and the premolars and
molars are for grinding. The front surface of the incisors has a thick layer of enamel which
forms a sharp edge at the cutting point of the teeth. The incisors are said to be upon rooted,
meaning that they continue to grow throughout the rabbit’s life as they are worn down by
chewing. The food is mixed with saliva as it is ground by the molars to reduce its particle
size. After this first processing period the food is swallowed and passes down the oesophagus
to the stomach.
The stomach represents about 40% of the total volume of the digestive system. Food in the
stomach is exposed to acidity and some enzyme digestion begins. Weak muscular
contractions in the stomach push the food in to the first loop of the small intestine, the
duodenum. The food is first bathed in bile which enters via the bile duct. Bile is produced in
the liver and is stored in the gall bladder. The bile salts assist in the digestion of the fats in the
food. As the food passes further along the duodenum it is mixed with enzymes produced in
the pancreas and which enter via the pancreatic duct. Enzyme digestion is rapid and food
proteins are broken down to amino-acids which are absorbed through the intestinal wall into
the blood system. Fatty acids, glycerol, glucose and other simple sugars are the end products
of fat and carbohydrate digestion and these are also absorbed as the food passes along the
small intestine.

The rabbit is sometimes referred to as hind-gut fermentr, meaning that food is broken down
by bacteria at the end of the digestive system. The major site of this breakdown is the
caecum. The large caecum has absorbing and secretory cells throughout its large area. The
caecum contains many bacteria that grow and multiply on the partly- digested food. These
bacteria are very important because the synthesize B vitamins, particularly thiamin, and
because they breakdown plant fibre. The breakdown results in the production of acetic,
proprionic and butyric fatty acids, which are absorbed from the caecum and large intestines
and used as sources of energy by the rabbit.
The rabbit produces two types of faecal pellet, one soft type containing many bacteria which
is re-eaten, and one that is hard and passed out in the normal way.
Water is reabsorbed throughout the caecum and large intestine. This results in the relatively
hard, dry faecal pellets which are characteristic of rabbit faeces.
From the above it is clear that the function of the digestive system is to transform the digested
food to chemical, physical and biological processes in such away that the organism can use
the nutrient of the food for maintenance, growth and reproduction.
The digestive system of the rabbit is well adapted for the utilization of roughages and feed of
plant origin. The digestive system occupies the large portion of the body cavity. The
development of the digestive system is almost completed at 9 weeks of age, the caecum and
the colon start to develop around 3-5 weeks of age when feed ingestion other than milk start
to be significant and a micro floral population becomes important in those organs. The size of
different part of the digestive system varies with age, breed, physiological status and type of
feeds given to the rabbit. The amount of time the feed stays in the digestive system affects the
time of enzyme and micro-organism activity.
This time is 17-18 hrs. The longest retention time occur in the stomach and in the caecum.
Retention time in the small intestine is relatively low.
The domestic rabbit will eat most type of green vegetables, grain, tuber and root. Therefore,
the ration may consist almost entirely of ingredients from plant sources.
Kitchen wastes such as uncooked vegetables, cereals and remain of meals can be fed to
rabbits provided certain rules are followed:
1. The waste must be fed when fresh and unsoured.
2. It must be removed after a few hours if it is not eaten.
3. It should represent less than half of the rabbit’s daily ration.
3.5.1 Water
Water should be supplied ad.libitum. Rabbits have high requirements for water in relation to
their body. Water is necessary for maintenance, production and lactation because dry matter
intake is related to water intake. Any restriction in water intake causes a decline in dry matter
consumption. However, if feeding is restricted, water intake may increase water should be
clear, fresh and free from biological and chemical contaminants.
3.5.2 Protein
The quality and quantity of protein are not critical in rabbit as in poultry because rabbit can
adapt to poor and low protein situation but production will not be optimum.
With high and good protein quality, however, optimum production can be achieved. Crude
protein is an approximate measure of the total amount of amino-acids. For rabbits the
recommended crude protein level in the dry matter of the ration is
• over 18% for newly weaned rabbits;
• 16-18% for rabbits from12 to 24 weeks;
• 15-17% for a breeding doe.
• 12-14% for all other stocks.
3.5.3 Energy
The energy requirement of rabbit are made from fibrous components of the feeds. Energy
requirement is between 2390 and 2500kcal of digestive energy. This energy can be supplied
from fats grains, maize, cereal bran and fibrous feeds.
3.5.4 Fats
Rabbit can handle up to 20-25% fat in the diet depending on their age. Fat provide
energy as well as supplying essentially fatty acids. Fat also provide palatability and
reduce dustiness in feed.
3.5.5 Carbohydrates
Grains are the readily available carbohydrates.
3.5.6 Fibre
Rabbit eliminate fibre and digest non fibrous component of the feed. Anti peristalsis
wave on the proximal colon in conjunction with normal contraction in the caecum are
responsible for the separation and excretion of fibre. The digestion of cellulose is low.
3.2.7 Minerals
Calcium is the bone constituent which is involve in blood clothing controlling excitability of
nerve and muscles and in maintenance of acid base equilibrium. Phosphorus is a component
of cellular constituent such as adenosine tri phosphate (ATP) and deoxy ribonucleic acid
(DNA), ribonucleic acid (RNA) and phospholipids. Phosphorus is also a component of the
bone. Calcium absorption is experience by its level in the feed.
Dietary phosphorus and vitamin D factors have not been critically studied in rabbit. Calcium
level in the serum (sera) of rabbit is higher than what is obtained in other species, this is
because other species maintained a regulated constant level of calcium through a process
called homeostasis, since this homeostasis is absent in the rabbit dietary calcium level is
directly reflected in the blood unregulated.
3.2.8 Vitamins
Vitamins are chemicals that are required in very small amounts to speed up chemical
reactions within the rabbits body. The most important vitamins are the vitamins A and D, and
the B vitamins choline and thiamin.
3.6 Caecotrophy
One aspect of rabbit nutrition that is particularly interesting, it is sometimes called refection.
Caecotrophy is the eating of faecal –like pellets produced in the caecum.
Types of faeces produced

The rabbit produces two kinds of faeces viz:
1) hard faeces
2) soft faeces or caecotropus
The rabbit has a specialized mechanism that retain ingestion in the proximal colon and
caecum for microbial utilization of nutrient and also to allow the formation of the two types
of faeces. The faeces suitable for consumption are the soft faeces. It originates from the
caecum (cecotropus) while the other which the rabbit don’t eat is called the hard faeces.
Table 2.1 The composition of the two types of rabbit faeces:

Constituents (%) Hard faeces Soft faeces
Dry matter 52.7 38.6
Crude protein 15.4 25.7
Ether extract 3.0 5.3
Crude fibre 30.0 17.8

Ash 13.7 15.2
Nitrogen free 37.9 36.0
extract
Gross energy(unit) 4.34 4.53
Rabbits kept in hutches or colonies are totally dependant on the keeper for their food. They
can eat only what the keeper provides. Wild rabbits pick and choose their own food. They
have instinctive wisdom which helps them to select a good balanced diet. The rabbit keeper
does not have this instinctive wisdom and must therefore think carefully about what is the
best food for the rabbits.

There are three possible feeding system and each system has it’s own advantages and
disadvantages. These are:
• Extensive system: total dependence on forages and kitchen wastes.
• Intensive system: total dependence on prepared concentrate foods from the feed mill
• Semi-intensive system: the use of forages supplemented with prepared concentrate
foods.
Table 2.2 the advantages and disadvantages of intensive and extensive feeding systems
System Advantages Disadvantages
Extensive Cheap, easy to provide the Everything depends on the
quantity of food required keeper to choose the correct
foods. Supplies of forage
may vary throughout the

year. Quality is variable and
is often too low, for
reasonable production needs
a lot of labour and may
introduce diseases and
health problems.
Intensive Needs little time for Very costly. Depends on the
feeding. High levels of supplies from the feed mill
production can be obtained. which may not always be
Little risk of diseases being available or of good quality.
brought in with the food
Semi- intensive system Most suitable for the small- Falls between the extensive
scale producer. Make the and the intensive system
best use of forages and
prepared concentrated foods
at the critical times (during
last third of pregnancy,
lactation and post-weaning.
3.8 Feeding skills
This can be achieved by close observation and monitoring. Observation is the skill of seeing
and remembering the different sorts of plants and their location in the local area which are
useful for rabbit feeding. Observation also helps to see how rabbits react to the different
foods they are given, so that you can learn which foods they like and which they do not.
Arising out of this observation exercise it would be interesting to make a list of local plant
that prove to be useful in rabbit feeding and to discuss this list with other rabbit keepers.

b) One aspect of rabbit nutrition is caecotrophy, Discuss in detailed the concept of
caecotrophy and compare the advantages and disadvantages of the three feeding
systems in rabbits.
4.0 Conclusion
It is obvious that rabbit nutrition is most important aspect of their production without which
the rabbit will not resist any disease attack and environmental stress.
5.0 Summary
In this unit we have studied that:
• The domestic rabbit will eat most type of green vegetables, grains, tubers and roots.
Kitchen wastes such as uncooked vegetables, cereals and remain of meals can be fed to
rabbits provided certain rules are followed:
• Water should be supplied ad.libitum. For rabbits the recommended crude protein level in
the dry matter of the ration is over 18% for newly weaned rabbits;
16-18% for rabbits from12 to 24 weeks; 15-17% for breeding does; 12-14% for all other
stocks. Energy requirement is between 2390 and 2500 kcal of digestive energy. Rabbit
can handle up to 20-25% fat in the diet depending on their age. The digestion of cellulose
is low.
• Caecotrophy is the eating of faecal –like pellets produced in the caecum.
• There are three possible fedding systems in the rabbit these are Extensive system which is
total dependence on forages and kitchen wastes. Intensive system is total dependence on
prepared concentrate foods from the feed mill, while Semi-intensive system is the use of
forages supplemented with prepared concentrate foods.

1. With the aid of a diagram explain the process of digestion and absorption in rabbits.
Fielding, D., Smith, A. J. and Coste, R. (1991) (Rabbits) The Tropical Agriculturalist
(CTA) Macmillan.
McDonald, P., Edward, R. A., Greenhalgh, J. F. D. and Morgan, C. A. (1998) Animal
Nutrition 5th edition

Rabbit Management
0.1 Introduction…………………………………………………………………… 90
2.0 Objectives……………………………………………………………………... 90
3.0 Main Content………………………………………………………………… 90
3.1 Male and female reproductive system………………………………………… 90
3.2 The female reproductive system consists of the following parts……………... 91
3.3 The male reproductive system………………………………………………... 91
3.4 Selection for breeding ……………………………………………………… 92
3.4.1 Mating………………………………………………………………………… 92
3.4.2 Pregnancy ……………………………………………………………………. 93
3.4.3 Kindling……………………………………………………………………… 94
3.4.4 Sexing………………………………………………………………………. 94
3.4.5 Weaning………………………………………………………………………. 95
4.0 Conclusion……………………………………………………………………. 95
5.0 Summary…………………………………………………………………….. 95
6.0 Tutor marked assignment……………………………………………………... 96
7.0 References and Further readings……………………………………………. 96
1.0 Introduction.
Reproduction is a process of giving birth, is a complex process controlled by many

substances called hormones which are produced in endocrine glands in the body, and in other
parts of the body like the ovaries. Hormones are produced in very small amounts. They are
transported to the organ they controlled (target organ) by the blood circulation system.
Different hormones act on different parts of the reproductive system at different times to
ensure successful reproduction.
2.0 Objectives
By the end of this unit you will be able to:

• Know the anatomy and physiology of male and female reproductive organs of rabbits
• Select a doe for breeding purposes based on certain quality characteristics.
• Confirm pregnancy from certain characteristic behaviour of the doe.
• Differentiate the male from the female in young rabbits.
• To understand the need for special care during weaning the age of weaning
3.0 Main Content
fallopian
tube
uterus
vagaina
opening of the
bladder urino genital canal
vulva
Fig 3.1 Tthe female reproductive system

1. ovaries (2);
2. oviducts or fallopian tubes (2);
3. uteri (2);
4. cervix;
5. vagina;
6. vulva;
7. Mammary glands (8-10).
The relative position of the above organs is shown in fig 3.1

The ovaries produce the female eggs- ova- inside follicles which grow on the surface of the
ovaries. When released they are led by strands of tissue- the fibriae into the fallopian tubes.
Aided by muscle contractions and moving hairs in the tube walls, the ova travel down the
fallopian tubes and meet and fuse with the male sperm.
Within hours the fertilized eggs divide to become embryos, which move into the uteri. The
uteri have many convolutions and are well supplied with blood. The embryos attach to the
uterine walls and develop into fetuses. At the end of pregnancy, after 31 days, the young
rabbits pass out through the cervix, the urino-genital canal and the vulva.
The male reproductive system consist of the following parts; their relative positions are
shown in fig 3.2
bladder
Vas deferens
Fig.3.2 Male reproductive system
1. testicles (2);
2. vas deferens (2);
3. penis;
4. associated glands
The male reproductive cells- the sperm- are produced in the two testicles which normally lie
outside the body in the scrotum. They descend into the scrotum when the rabbit reaches about
10-12 weeks of age. The testicles need to be cooler than the normal body temperature if they
are to produce viable sperm. Each testicle has a tube- the vas deferens- for transport of the
sperm to the urino-genital canal and onwards to the penis.

Breeding stock should be selected from does who are good mothers and who have good body
size and shape. Also to be considered is the live weight of the rabbits, select the heaviest but
take account of any differences in age if selecting from more than one litter.
The size of the litter of which the rabbit is a member, give selection preference to rabbits
from the largest litters if there are enough liters to give a choice.
Select rabbits free of any signs of ill-health. Males should be checked to confirm that each
has two testicles in its scrotum.
3.4.1 Mating
On forage based systems, does are normally ready for mating at about 8-10 months. At this
age their growth will be slowing and they will be able to direct a larger portion of available
food to reproduction. The weight at mating varies according to breed. Effort should be mad to
determine the optimum weight for mating for any breed in question.
The same applies to bucks as to does, but bucks can usually be used for mating from 6-8
months, depending on the condition. The ratio of does to bucks should not exceed
10 : 1. However, for safety, it may be sensible to have two bucks for more than six does and
three for more than twelve.
Experience has shown that early morning or evening mating is best. It is advisable to avoid
the hottest periods of the day.
Fig3.4 Rabbit mating

Source: (Rabbits) The Tropical Agriculturalist by D.
Fielding, A. J. Smith, and R. Coste page 54
For mating , the doe should be taken to

the buck’s hutch if it is done the other way
round the doe may attack the buck and
cause injury. If the doe is ready to be mate she will stand still within a few seconds, stretch
out and slightly raise her hind quarters so as to allow the buck to mount and mate, as in
fig.3.4 successful mating is signaled by the buck thrusting forward and literally falling off the
doe. This is very easy to see. If the buck slides backwards off the doe and does not fall, then
mating has not taken place. Once mating has taken place the doe is removed from the buck’s
hutch. The doe may be returned after an hour or so for a second mating. This is good practice
for new keepers to follow.
3.4.2 Pregnancy
Pregnant does will often accept the buck during pregnancy, so refusal to mate cannot be used
to confirm pregnancy. The first real confirmation of pregnancy can be obtained at about 14
days after mating. The doe should be relax and sitting naturally. If fingers are then gently run
along the abdomen, between the back legs small bead-like lumps can be felt if the doe is
pregnant as shown above fig.3.3 these are developing foetues.
Inexperienced keepers should practice detecting pregnancy in does that are 20 days pregnant,
at5 which stage the fetuses are easy to identify.
Fig3.3 testing for pregnancy by palpation

Source: (Rabbits) The Tropical Agriculturalist by
D. Fielding, A. J. Smith, and R. Coste page55
By around 28 days the mammary

gland will have developed
significantly and this can be regarded
as final confirmation of
pregnancy. At around 29 days the
doe will begin to remove fur from her abdomen to make a nest.
Pregnancy or gestation is the time from fertilization to the time of kindling or parturition
which take 31 or 32 days. On the average, pregnancy period last 30 days in the common
commercial breed. During this period the doe should be well fed and protected from stresses
such as dogs and general noise.
Gestation period- this is the time from fertilization to the time of kindling or parturition
which take 31 or 32 days. On the average, pregnancy period last 30 days in the common
commercial breed.
About 4-5 days before kindling a nesting box should be brought in with some wood shaving
of fine straw placed on the floor of the box. It will soon be found that the doe begins to
remove hair from her abdomen and sides and place them in the box to prepare a
warm cushion for the young ones soon to be born. The young ones of rabbit are born naked
and blind. Their mother uses the hairs in the box to cover them to keep warm.
3.4.3 Kindling
The doe usually kindles or gives birth, at night. Once kindling has finished the doe will pluck
more fur from her abdomen and cover the young rabbits. It is best to leave her undisturbed
for 2-3 days after kindling unless there are obvious problems. It is a good practice to have
some cotton wool ready to cover the litter if the doe has not done this properly herself.
3.4.4 Sexing
Sexing of rabbit can be done any time as from the moment of weaning. Close to the anal
opening is another orifice (opening) which is the sexual aperture. In both sexes, there is no
difference of external look of this opening, but when the opening is pressed open with the aid
of thumb and forefinger, the difference become quite vivid. In the female, a longitudinal slit
will be seen, while in the male a round opening is observed and the penis can be seen
protruding out of this opening. If sexing is delayed longer, the testes of the
male would have developed fully and could be seen protruding out clearly from the body
between the two hind legs. This makes the identification of the male easy. Any rabbit not
having these testes protruding out is female.
Another method of identification of fully grown rabbit is the size of the animal. The doe is
usually smaller than the buck within the same breed and she is a lot more docile than her
opposite sex.
a b
fig 3.5a lift from scruff of neck and support

underneath, press gently where indicated
Fig 3.5b showing the male and female reproductive

organs of the young rabbit
Source: Livestock rearing in the tropics by I.

McDonald and J. Low page 112
1) Write short notes on the following:

i) Mating in rabbits.
ii) Rabbit pregnancy
iii) Kindling
iv) Sexing of young rabbits
3.4.5 Weaning
Weaning is the separation of the doe and the young. It should be done around 6-8 weeks after
kindling. The best method of weaning is to take the doe away from the litter. To do it the
other way round will put too much stress on the litter.
The period after weaning is another critical time for the young rabbits and it is a time for
feeding some concentrates if available. Small amounts of concentrate at this time will have a
big effect on growth rate. As the rabbit grow they may be gradually taken off concentrates
but their growth rate will slow as a result. The litter will soon require extra hutch space.
After weaning, the doe should be allowed time to recover her body condition before re-
mating. Weekly weighing is the only sure method of checking that she is regaining her body
reserves. Does can usually continue breeding until they are 3 to 4 years old.
4.0 Conclusion
Reproduction is a complex process controlled by substances called hormones. Breeding stock

should be selected from does who are good mothers and who have good body size and shape
to ensure healthy offspring’s.
5.0 Summary
• Reproduction is a complex process controlled by substances called hormones which are

produced in endocrine glands in the boy, and in other parts of the body like the ovaries.
Hormones are transported to the organ they controlled (target organ) by the blood
circulation system.
• The female reproductive system consists of the ovaries (2); oviducts or fallopian tubes
(2); uteri (2); cervix; vagina; vulva ad Mammary glands- (8-10). While The male
reproductive system consist of the testicles (2); vas deferens (2); Penis and associated
glands
• Breeding stock should be selected from does who are good mothers and who have good
body size and shape. The ratio of does to bucks should not exceed 10 : 1
• The first real confirmation of pregnancy can be obtained at about 14 days after mating.
The doe should be relax and sitting naturally. If fingers are then gently run along the
abdomen, between the back legs small bead-like lumps can be felt if the doe is pregnant,
these are developing foetues.
• The doe usually kindles or gives birth, at night. Sexing of rabbit can be done any time as
from the moment of weaning. Weaning is the separation of the doe and the young. it
should be done around 6-8 weeks after kindling.
1a) Draw and label the buck and the doe reproductive systems.
b) Explain the criteria used in selecting does for breeding

I. McDonald, J. Low (1985) Livestock rearing in the tropics Macmillan education Ltd.
D. Fielding, A. J. Smith, and R. Coste (1991) (Rabbits) The Tropical Agriculturalist (CTA)
Macmillan

Rabbit Management
1.0 Introduction…………………………………………………………………. 98
2.0 Objectives…………………………………………………………………… 98
3.0 Main Content……………………………………………………………….. 98
3.1 Housing requirements………………………………………………………. 98
3.2 Types of housing……………………………………………………………. 99
3.2.1 Indoor hutches………………………………………………………………. 99
3.2.1 Out door rabbit hutch……………………………………………………….. 101
3.3 Floor methods of housing…………………………………………………... 102
3.4 Hutch equipment…………………………………………………………… 102
3.4.1 Equipment requirements……………………………………………………. 103
3.4.2 Maintenance of hutches and equipment……………………………………. 104
4.0 Conclusion…………………………………………………………………. 104
5.0 Summary……………………………………………………………………. 104
6.0 References and Further readings ………………………………………….. 105
1.0 Introduction
Rabbit housing (hutches and cages) and equipment differ from country to country. Factors
governing their design include climate, availability and cost of raw materials, scale and
system of production and the expertise of the rabbit keeper. There are, however, some basic
requirements which all hutches an equipment should satisfy and any new or existing hutches
and equipment should be assessed against these requirements.
2.0 Objectives
• Know the basic requirements of a rabbit house in terms of, space needed, protection,
convenience and ease of management e.t.c.
• Understand indoor and outdoor hutches, their advantages and disadvantages.
• Exposed to the idea of floor system of keeping rabbits, it’s requirements and problems.
• To be familiar with hutch equipment, their requirements, types, uses and maintenance.
3.0 Main Content
Any rabbit hutch should provide adequate space and protection for the rabbit and also
convenience to the rabbit keeper.
Space
Since the rabbit is going to be in the hutch for life there is need to provide enough space to
minimize restriction of movement. For the rabbit to be able to stretch it self and carry out its
normal activities then horizontal and vertical space are all important. Space is also critical for
good ventilation and temperature regulation within the hutch. These are necessary to maintain
good health and prevent diseases.
Protection
For the farmer to be successful, it is necessary to provide adequate protection to his rabbits.
This protection is against injury within the hutch, from direct sunlight, rain, direct and
indirect wind, sudden noises, predators like dogs, cats, rats, snakes, safari ants and human
thieves.
Convenience to the rabbit keeper
For a successful operation on the farm, the house should be designed in such away to assist
the keeper to carry out routine practices like observation, examination, handling, feeding,
mating the rabbits, cleaning and disinfection. Also there should be room for expansion when
the number multiplies.

Basically there are two types of housing these are
1. outdoor hutches - this are kept outside all the time
2. indoor hutches - this are kept inside a house or open shed.
.
Outdoor hutches and indoor hutches

The requirements of space, protection and ease of management can be achieved through
appropriate design, construction and siting
Typical hutch dimensions for a general purpose hutch are as follows:
• 1 m above the ground approximately;
• height of hutch: 60 cm at the front, 50 cm at the back;
• width: 50-60 cm;
• length: 90-120 cm
The hutches within the house can be much simpler than outdoor hutches and simple boxes
made from wired frames can be used. These can be hung in a number of ways
Indoor hutches are appropriate for the established keeper with good markets to justify the
expenses in setting them up.
Fig 4.1A typical rabbit hutch

Source: (Rabbits) The Tropical
Agriculturalist by D.
Indoor hutches and their inside arrangements are shown below:

Fig 4.2 possible arrangements of indoor hutches

Fielding,
A. J. Smith, and R. Coste page 33

fig. 4.3 Outside rabbit hutch

Table 4.1 The advantages and disadvantages of outdoor and indoor hutches.
Type of hutches Advantages disadvantages

Outdoor Relatively cheap. Impossible to met all the
Appropriate when starting protection requirements all
production the time e.g. in storms
Hutches difficult to clean and
keep dry.
Not easy to increase the
number of hutches quickly.
Indoor Good conditions for the Requires a major initial
rabbits and the rabbit keeper. investment, too costly for the
Rabbits are more easily beginner
observed.
Individual hutches are easier
to keep clean and use
particularly useful where
many rabbits are kept.
It is easier to protect rabbits
from predators.
This method involves keeping the rabbits on the ground, in a fenced area provided with
simple boxes for shelter. In this system several does are kept in the same area. This method is
particularly suited to very dry areas and or where producers cannot obtain or afford the
materials to build proper hutches. In this method one of the most important requirement is to
keep the floor dry. An alternative method is to make a deep layer of dried straw, rice husks or
wood shavings. Mud or wooden shelters that can be secured at night can be constructed to
provide protection from predators. Rabbits may be allowed to burrow in floor system and
may rear their young in these burrows, but kindling boxes are preferable. Bucks should be
kept separate from the does and young rabbits unless there is plenty of space. To avoid
fighting between does provide enough space at least 1 m2 per doe. For floor methods to be
successful, observe strict hygiene and avoid overcrowding.
These methods of rabbit keeping are not widely practiced and need a lot of management
attention to be successful.
1) Discuss the floor method of housing rabbits and its limitations.

.
3.4 Hutch equipment
Hutch equipment consist of four items

Some home-made rabbit drinkers and food troughs are shown in fig. 4.4 below
1. water trough;
2. food trough;
3. roughage rack;
kindling box
Fig.3.4 Home made food troughs and drinkers

Source: (Rabbits) The Tropical Agriculturalist by D. Fielding,
A. J. Smith, and R. Coste page34
In addition there may be need for a transport box and a storage facility for food and other
items
3.4.1 Equipment
requirements
For water and food troughs the requirements are

7. It should be impossible to tilt over.
8. It should have adequate size and depth.
9. It should discourage scratching out of contents.
10. It must not cause injury to the rabbit.
11. It should be cheap and can be constructed locally.
Forage racks should be fitted inside the hutch and
12. it should allow the rabbit full access and not limit food intake.
Kindling boxes should:

13. provide a secure, draught proof dry container in which the doe can kindle;
14. prevent the young rabbits leaving until they are at least 2-3 weeks old
Fig4.4 open and closed
kindling boxes35
Source: (Rabbits) The Tropical

Agriculturalist by D.
Fielding,
A. J. Smith, and R. Coste page

Proper maintenance includes the following:
• cleaning of hutch and equipment every 2-3 days;
• complete cleaning between litters using soap and water and if possible disinfectants. This
should be followed by complete drying and disinfection in direct sunlight;
• checking and repairing loose boards, tins or wires which may allow the rabbits to escape
or drop through or predators to enter.
• checking for the development o sharp edges in hutches and on equipment which may
cause injury.
4.0 Conclusion
Regardless of the type of housing method and the equipment used the above mentioned
requirements on housing and equipment has to be fulfilled.
5.0 Summary
By the end of this unit you learnt that:
• Any rabbit hutch should provide adequate space and protection for the rabbit and also
convenience to the rabbit keeper. Basically there are two types of housing these are
outdoor hutches - this are kept outside all the time. Indoor hutches - this are kept inside a
house or open shed.
• Hutch equipment consist of four items, water trough; food trough; roughage rack;
kindling box .
• Equipment requirements For water and food troughs are it should be impossible to tilt
over. it should have adequate size and depth. it should discourage scratching out of
contents. it must not cause injury to the rabbit. it should be cheap and can be constructed
locally. Forage racks should be fitted inside the hutch andit should allow the rabbit full
access and not limit food intake. kindling boxes should: provide a secure, draught proof
dry container in which the doe can kindle; prevent the young rabbits leaving until they are
at least 2-3 weeks old
• Maintenance of hutches and equipment include cleaning of hutch and equipment every 2-
3 days; complete cleaning between litters using soap and water and if possible
disinfectants. This should be followed by complete drying and disinfection in direct
sunlight; checking and repairing loose boards, tins or wires which may allow the rabbits
to escape or drop through o predators to enter;
checking for the development of sharp edges in hutches and on equipment which
may cause injury.

1a) In a tabular form compare the outdoor and indoor type of hutches.
b) Discuss the housing requirements of Rabbits.
Macmillan

Rabbit Management
1.0 Introduction…………………………………………………………………. 107

2.0 Objectives…………………………………………………………………… 107
3.0 Main Content………………………………………………………………. 107
3.1 Husbandry skills…………………………………………………………….. 107
3.1.1 Observation…………………………………………………………………. 107
3.1.2 Rabbit examination…………………………………………………………. 107
3.1.3 Weighing…………………………………………………………………… 108
3.1.4 Nail trimming………………………………………………………………. 108
3.1.5 Identification………………………………………………………………... 109
3.1.6 Writing in the ear…………………………………………………………… 109
3.1.7 Labels ………………………………………………………………………. 109
3.1.8 Ear-notching………………………………………………………………… 110
3.2 Record keeping and analysis ……………………………………………….. 110
3.3 Financial records……………………………………………………………. 110
3.4 Animal record………………………………………………………………. 111
3.5 First aid……………………………………………………………………. 112
4.0 Conclusion…………………………………………………………………. 112
5.0 Summary…………………………………………………………………… 112
6.0 Tutor marked Assignment…………………………………………………. 113
7.0 References and Further reading ……………………………………………. 113
1.0 Introduction
Many skills are needed if rabbit unit is to succeed. Observation, examination, record keeping,
hutch design, building and siting, food identification, selection, production and storage, good
management e.t.c. are all part of the skills needed for a successful operation.
2.0 Objectives
After this unit you should be able to:

• Observe critically with interest any changes in behaviour or activity
of your rabbits
• Examine systematically your rabbits for any abnormality by asking
some relevant questions.
• Practice periodic weighing of your rabbits to check their growth and
general condition.
• Appreciate the significance of routine management practices e.g.
nail trimming to avoid injuries.
• Know the different methods of rabbit identification.
• Recognized the importance of record keeping in rabbit farming.
3.0 Main Content
3.1.1 Observation
This means not only looking but bearing in mind. It is an important ability for all animal
keepers. It depends on the rabbit keeper having real curiosity and compassion for the rabbits.
It is a talent that comes with practice but can be developed with the help of questions to be
used each time you visit the rabbit unit. Questions like is everything the same as the last time
I came? Are the hutches as normal? Is there any food left? Are there any signs of blood? Is
the fence wire coming loose? Is there lots of hair in the hutch, suggesting moulting? This
questions are only a guide you may ask yourself as many questions as you can with the aim
of identifying any anomaly or problems.
Rabbit examination is required after a new rabbit is being bought or rabbits are being checked
prior to selection for breeding. Examine for the following:
Does it look healthy? Is its head on one side? Is it isolating itself from the other rabbits? Are
there scabs on the skin? Are the nostrils clear or running with other fluid? Are the hard faeces
normal? Are there any sores in the ears? Is the gait normal? How is the weight compared with
the age?
3.1.3 Weighing
This is done to check on their growth and their general condition. Rabbits can be weight by
two methods: either by the use of a pan-scale or a spring balance as shown in fig. 5.1
Fig 5.1 pan-scale and a spring balance weighing

Source: (Rabbits) the Tropical Agriculturalist by D. Fielding, A. J. Smith, and R. Coste page 65
3.1.4 Nail trimming
Rabbit’s nails need to b trim from time to time because rabbits in hutches do not wear down
the nails on their feet by burrowing or running about. The nails can scratch the keeper, and
can injure the rabbit too. A pair of sharp scissors or human nail clipper ca be used to trim the
nails as shown in fig.5.2
fig 5.2 holding a rabbit for nail-trimming

This is a way and means of recognizing ones animals (rabbits) and differentiating between
one’s animals (rabbits) from another farmer’s own and differentiating between individual
animals (rabbits). There are several methods employed to achieve this.
• Writing in the ear

• Labels
• Ear-notching

For rabbits that has light-coloured skin in its ear, a coloured or indelible pen can be used to
write a number inside the ear. This will last a week and will have to be renewed regularly.
3.1.7 Labels
With care labels or leg bands can be fitted around the back leg of a rabbit for identification.
This labels are hand made from in or plastic. Care should be taken to avoid injury or cutting
the leg. see fig 5.3
Fig 5.3 Identification using a leg band

3.1.8 Ear-notching
This means clipping little pieces out of the rabbit’s ears at different places, to indicate
different numbers. One such code is shown on fig.5.4 ear –notching is a permanent and
effective method but requires a special notching instrument a livestock officer will assist the
rabbit keeper.
fig5.4 A key for identifying rabbits by ear-notching.

Fielding, A. J. Smith, and R. Coste page66
A rabbit keeper with one or two rabbits recording

may seem unnecessary, but it is necessary to keep records as the number increases. Two
types of records are required.
1. Financial records
2. Animal records
Financial records can be kept in a small notebook. With label on one page ‘Expenditure’ and
another page ‘Income’. All the money spent on the rabbit is to be entered under expenditure
and all the money earn from them under income. If you eat a rabbit then enter the equivalent
of its cost in the market under income but be honest.
3.4 Animal record
Table 5.1 an example of a doe record card
Doe name--------------------------------------- date of birth----------------------------------

Date Buck Date No. born Date Number Notes
mated used kindled alive/dead weaned weaned
The column for ‘notes’ is for recoding any health and husbandry details e.g. total litter weight
at weaning. Other animal record can be constructed for growing litters to monitor their live
weight gain, or how often they have been used for mating e.t.c.

In order to appreciate the husbandry skills needed in rabbit production your tutor need to
organize a visit to a rabbit farm (where available)
Try to enrich your knowledge by observing, and asking the rabbit keeper on the daily
management practices. You will be able to:
1a) Describe hutch equipment, their requirements and maintenance in a rabbit farm.
b) Describe the different systems of managing rabbits.
3.5 First aid
Occasionally rabbits may suffer from injuries caused by fighting or by sharp edges on wire
floors or on feeders. It is important to treat these injuries as soon as possible, to prevent them
from becoming more serious.
First aid involves several steps as follows:
1. cleaning the injury with antiseptic solution;
2. dying;
3. treating with antiseptic cream;
4. protecting from further injury and infection.
It can be helpful to have a first aid box. This could include the following items:
• a bowl for holding antiseptic solution;
• a clean cloth;
• antiseptic concentrate;
• antiseptic cream;
• cotton wool;
• scissor or razor blade;
• bandage
• a syringe for dosing medicine
4.0 Conclusion
Skills needed for a successful rabbit operation therefore include Observation, examination,
record keeping, hutch design, building and siting, food identification, selection, production
and storage, and good management.
5.0 Summary
• Observation is a skill that comes with practice but can be developed with the help of
questions to be used each time you visit the rabbit unit.
• Rabbit examination is required after a new rabbit is being bought or rabbits are being
checked prior to selection for breeding.
• Weighing is done to check on their growth and their general condition.
• Nail trimming, rabbits nails need to be trim from time to time.
• Identification: This is a way and means of recognizing ones animals (rabbits) and
differentiating between one’s animals (rabbits) from another farmer’s own and
differentiating between individual animals(rabbits). There are several methods employed
to achieve this. Writing in the ear, Labels, Ear-notching
• Record keeping and analysis: It is necessary to keep records as the number increases.
Two types of records are required. Financial records and Animal records.
1a) Discuss in detailed the skills needed for a successful rabbit production.
b) Give an account of the types of records available in a rabbit farm.
c) List all the components of a first aid box and explain why it is needed in a rabbit farm.
Macmillan

Rabbit Management
1.0 Introduction………………………………………………………………… 115
2.0 Objectives……………………………………………………………………. 115
3.0 Main Content …………………………………………………………… 115
3.1 Signs of a healthy rabbit…………………………………………………….. 115
3.2 Conditions that make a rabbit susceptible to disease include………………. 115
3.3 Stress……………………………………………………………………… 116
3.3.1 How to minimize major stresses………………………………………… 116
3.4 Preventive measures for common diseases……………………………… 116
3.5 Internal parasites……………………………………………………… 116
3.5.1 Coccidiosis….…………………………………………………………… 116
3.6 External parasites……………………………………………………… 117
3.6.1 Ear mange or skin mange……………………………………………… 117
3.7 Snuffles ……………………………………………………………… 117
3.8 Myxomatosis………………………………………………………… 117
4.0 Conclusion……………………………………………………………. 118
5.0 Summary……………………………………………………………… 118
7.0 References and Further readings………………………………………… 118
1.0 Introduction
The healthy rabbit may become unhealthy and diseased if exposed to stress and disease
organism. It is the responsibility of the rabbit keeper to maintain a healthy rabbit that is not
stressed and in whose environment there are as few disease organisms as possible.
2.0 Objectives
• Know the signs of a healthy rabbit with a view to understand the diseased ones.
• Be familiar with conditions that favour disease development in rabbits
• Learned how to reduce stress in rabbit farming.
• Know some common diseases of rabbits for example internal and external parasites,
bacterial and viral infections.
• Advice in prevention and control measures of the above mentioned diseases.
3.0 Main Content
To understand the diseased rabbit you should know a healthy one very well through the signs
of a healthy rabbit and this include:
1. Normal eating and drinking.
2. Self –grooming.
3. Alertness, interest and curiosity.
4. Shiny, smooth, lean fur, specially on the front paws and around the anus.
5. A normal temperature of 37ºC-39.5ºC.
6. Normal silent breathing; 40-65 breath per minute.
7. Clear bright eyes without discharge.
8. Clear nostrils without discharge.
9. Normal caecotrophy, no soft faeces on the hutch floor.
10. Gaining weight or, if an adult maintaining its weight.

1. Insufficient water.
2. Insufficient food.
3. Toxic or poisonous food.
4. An unbalanced diet deficient in energy, protein, minerals or vitamins.
5. High fibre-only foods that can cause the rabbit to ‘blow-up’ like a ball;
6. Sour dirty foods that cause diarrhoea.
7. Dirty hutches and badly ventilated hutches that promote an increase in the number of
disease organisms.
3.3 Stress
Stress is any challenge to any system of the rabbit system for example its temperature control
system, its digestive system, its normal behaviour pattern. Pregnancy, giving birth, lactation,
weaning and mating are all periods of natural and unavoidable stress.

• Correct hutch design-windproof and waterproof;
• Correct placement of the hutch;
• Routine management steps to avoid heat stress;
• Avoidance of overcrowding in hutches;
• Exclusion of dogs, snakes and noisy visitors;
• An adequate well balanced diet;
• Overall good management, particularly ensuring clean dry floors and sufficient bedding.

Cleanness is very important in rabbit keeping. Waterers, feeders
Should be washed and dry in the sun every few days. Wash and disinfect cages when they
become empty, separate any sick animal from the healthy ones.
3.5.1 Coccidiosis
Caused by a protozoan called coccidia. Affects both liver and intestine. Occur in
overcrowded and dirty condition. Rabbit have swollen stomach and diarrhea leading to
dehydration, lack of appetite and dullness. Coccidia are commonly found in the intestine
without causing any obvious effects, but a period of stress, such as weaning or bad weather
may result in them multiplying rapidly. The ensuing diarrhea dirties all the fur around and
below the anus. If action is not taken flies may lay ther eggs in the matted fur and the
resulting maggots can eat away at the flesh of the abbit leaddig invariably to death.
Young rabbits are most frequently affected with coccidiosis just after weaning. The disease
can develop very quickly and high mortalities are common. In older rabbits there may be
chronic coccidiosis resulting in dullness and poor growth.
Control: Coccidioststs may be added to the drinking water to prevent coccidiosis occurring
or to cure it as required. Hutch cleanliness is an important preventive measure. Avoid
contamination of feed and water.

This is caused by external parasites such as mites. This cause a variety of skin and ear
conditions. With ear mange the entire ear may become filled with crusty scabs, without
proper attention it can spread onto and over the face. Rabbits with ear mange may shake their
heads a great deal.
Control: by use of acaricide drops and creams. This are usually expensive. In many cases we
used flowers of sulphur lightly powdered into the ear on a daily basis. Body mange can be
cured by dipping the rabbit in an appropriate acaricide solution as recommended by a
veterinarian.
3.7 Snuffles
Is a bacterial infection of the respiratory system, similar to a cold in humans. Out breaks are
more common where there is lack of ventilation, over-crowding and a build up of ammonia
from accumulated urine. The signs are sneezing, noisy breathing, a runny nose and wet and
mated fur on the face and inside of the front legs, as a result of the rabbit using its font legs to
wipe its nose and face. Affected rabbits should be isolated from other rabbits. Treatment with
antibiotics may appear to be effective but mortality is usually high and those rabbits that
recover are often affected again if exposed to some new stress.
3.8 Myxomatosis
This is a viral infection and the signs include swelling of the eyes and convulsions. The
disease spreads rapidly and is usually carried from rabbit to rabbit by fleas. There is no
treatment and mortality is very high. It is possible to vaccinate rabbits against myxomatosis if
the disease is reported in the area.

1a) How do you identify a healthy rabbit?
b) What are the various conditions that makes a rabbit susceptible to diseases?
4.0 Conclusion
There are several bacterial, viral and parasitic diseases that can affect rabbits. It is the
responsibility of the rabbit keeper to maintain a healthy rabbit that is not stressed and in
whose environment there are as few disease organisms as possible.
5.0 Summary
• signs of a healthy rabbi are normal eating and drinking, self –grooming,
alertness, interest and curiosity, shiny, smooth, lean fur, specially on the front
paws and around the anus, a normal temperature of 37ºC-39.5ºC, normal silent
breathing; 40-65 breath per minute, clear bright eyes without discharge, clear
nostrils without discharge, normal caecotrophy, no soft faeces on the hutch
floor, gaining weight or, if an adult maintaining its weight.
• Conditions that make a rabbit susceptible to disease are Insufficient water, insufficient
food, toxic or poisonous food, an unbalanced diet deficient in energy, protein, minerals or
vitamins, high fibre-only foods that can cause the rabbit to ‘blow-up’ like a ball, sour
dirty foods that cause diarrhea, dirty hutches and badly ventilated hutches that promote an
increase in the number of disease organisms.
• Stress is any challenge to any system of the rabbit system for example its temperature
control system, its digestive system, its normal behaviour pattern. Pregnancy, giving
birth, lactation, weaning and mating are all periods of natural and unavoidable stress.
• Preventive measures for common diseases include sanitation of Waterers, feeders every
few days. Wash and disinfect cages when they become empty, separate any sick animal
from the healthy ones.
• There are several bacterial, viral and parasitic diseases that can affect rabbits. It is the
responsibility of the rabbit keeper to maintain a healthy rabbit that is not stressed and in
whose environment there are as few disease organisms as possible.
1a) Stress is a challenge in rabbit production, how do you minimize it?

b) Give one example of the following diseases that affect rabbits and explain any two:
i) External parasite
ii) Internal parasite,
iii) Bacterial disease
iv) Viral disease
Macmillan

Rabbit Management
1.0 Introduction……………………………………….………………………. 120
2.0 Objectives…………………………………………………………………. 120
3.0 Main Content……………………………………………………………… 120
3.1 Requirement for slaughter and processing………………………………… 120
3.2 Killing procedure………………………………………………………….. 120
3.2.1 Neck breaking…………………………………………………………….. 121
3.2.2 Stunning method………………………………………………………….. 121
3.2.3 Skinning…………………………………………………………………… 123
3.2.4 Cleaning…………………………………………………………………….. 123
3.3 Rabbit meat………………………………………………………………… 124
3.4 Cooking…………………………………………………………………… 124
4.0 Conclusion………………………………………………………………… 124
5.0 Summary………………………………………………………………….. 125
6.0 Tutor marked assignment………………………………………………… 125
7.0 References and Further reading…………………………………………… 125
1.0 Introduction
Rabbits are to be slaughtered regardless of the circumstances that are involve (party, family
reunion, other celebrations e.t.c.). Rabbits that are on forage feeding reach table weight
around 6-7 months of age. Regular weighing is the best way to determine when this point has
been reached.
2.0 Objectives
By the end o this unit you should be able to:
• Know the necessary preparation and requirement for slaughtering and processing rabbits.
• Be familiar with the killing methods and their procedure.
• Apply the modern way of skinning and cleaning of rabbits after slaughter.
• Compare the chemical composition of rabbit meat with that of other livestock
3.0 Main Content
1. A generally clean place away from any obvious source of flies or dogs.
2. Something from which to hang the rabbit whilst cleaning it e.g. a branch or a specially
placed pole or set of hooks.
3. A sharp knife
4. A bowl or source of clean water.
5. A container for the blood and guts and any thing that is being kept separate from the
meat.
6. A clean container with cover for the rabbit carcass.
7. Some string or thin wire
8. A skin drying frame as in fig vv
9. A stick the thickness of a pencil smoothly rounded at on end.
Rabbit should receive water but no food in the 12-hour period before killing. This will help in
partly emptying the digestive system and will reduce the risk of it breaking during cleaning of
the carcass. If it breaks there is the possibility that the meat will be dirtied by the contents of
the digestive tract. This in turn may lead to food poisoning in the people that consume the
meat.
Killing should be carried out as quickly as possible and as efficiently as possible, with the
minimum pain to the rabbit. There are two methods of killing rabbits. Both involve making
the rabbit unconscious and then removing the head to allow bleeding.
3.2.1 Neck breaking
In this method the rabbit’s neck is broken in the same way as that used for killing hens in
some areas. For a right-handed person, both the rabbit’s back legs are held in the right hand.
The rabbit’s neck is then held from above between the first and second fingers- or the thumb
and first finger – of the left hand. The

rabbit is stretched over the upper part to
the left leg an the rabbit’s neck is pushed
down, whilst at the same time its head is bent
back as in fig 7.1
Fig7.1 Breaking a rabbit’s neck

Source: (Rabbits) The Tropical Agriculturalist by
D. Fielding, A. J. Smith, and R. Coste page87
With moderate force the neck will suddenly give way indicating that the neck has bee broken
by dislocation. The rabbit should be immediately hung upside-down by its back legs as in
fig.7.2 the head is then removed to allow the blood to drain out of the body.
This method requires more skill, alternatively, the fist step is to make an incision into the side
of the neck and the followed by cutting the jugular vein and allow blood to drain away.
The neck-breaking method requires a little strength. Those without the necessary strength
may prefer to use the stunning method. For a right-handed person, the rabbit should be held
upside-down by its back legs with the left hand. It should be held so that the ears fall forward
exposing the back of the head. The point at the base of the ears should then be hit sharply
with a good-sized piece of wood o metal, as in fig 7.3 this will stun th rabbit and make it
unconscious.
Fig7.3 stunning a rabbit

The rabbit should then be immediately hug p and its head should be cut of to allow bleeding.
It should be noted that this methods of killings has a limitation for the fact that they are not
acceptable by some believes, example Islam advocate the use of a sharp knife in cutting the
throat and the jugular veins as swiftly as possible with minimum pain inflicted to the animal.
Fig. 7.2 A rabbit hung f or dressing

3.2.3 Skinning
Skinning is done easily when the rabbit is hanging y its back legs at shoulder height. Cut off
the front legs at their midpoint, and then the tail. Next, cut the skin around each hook below
where the string is tied. Cut from the inside of one hock down, around the anus and tail area
and similarly down the inside of the other leg from the hock. No, using the round stick and
with care gently work the skin downwards and off the body. The stick is used to separate the
skin from the body without cutting it as would occur if a knife were used. Place the skin over
the skin drying frame. It can be cleaned later.
Fig7.4 Drying a skin on a wooden drying frame

Source: (Rabbits) The Tropical Agriculturalist by D. Fielding, A. J. Smith,
and R. Coste page
3.2.4 Cleaning
The body is cut open and care is taken not to

cut the intestines. The rabbit gut can now
be pulled out. The heart, kidneys and liver can
be separated together with other parts required for eating. It can then be taken down from the
hanging position and tidied up, ready for passing to the cook. Once this is done the skin on
the drying frame can be scraped clean, taking care not to cut it in the process.
3.3 Rabbit meat
Table 7.1 Comparison between the chemical composition of rabbit and some other
meats
Meat Dry matter % Protein % Fat % Energy MJ/kg
Rabbit 20-23 20-22 10-12 7-8
Chicken 20-23 19-21 11-13 7-8
Turkey 38-42 19-21 20-22 10-12

Beef 40-50 15-17 27-29 11-14
Lamb 40-50 14-18 26-30 11-14
Pork 50-55 10-12 42-48 17-20
Source: (Rabbits) The Tropical Agriculturalist by D. Fielding, A. J. Smith, and R. Coste page
As shown in table 7.1 rabbit meat is especially high in protein and low in fat. Also, the fat in
rabbit meat is mainly unsaturated, which is believed to be a more healthy type of fat than
saturated fat which is common in other meats. Rabbit meat has a lower cholesterol content
than most other meats, which is also believed to b a health promoting characteristic.
1a) Compare the chemical composition of rabbit meat and other meats of domestic
animals.
b) Explain the advantages of rabbit meat over other meats.
3.4 Cooking
Rabbit meat is relatively soft meat which needs little cooking. It is ideal for cooking in a dry
heat or frying. It can be used in stews but it should not be overcooked as it may disintegrate.
It is ideal for people who have digestive upsets and for those with few teeth. Smoking can be
used to preserve rabbit meat in the same way that it is used to preserve other meats.
4.0 Conclusion
Rabbits are to be slaughtered regardless of the circumstances that are involve (party, family
reunion, other celebrations e.t.c.). This process therefore should be carried out under some
laid down procedure and all sanitary measures taken to avoid food poisoning to those eating
the meat.
5.0 Summary
• Rabbits that are on forage feeding reach table weight around 6-7 months of age. Regular
weighing is the best way to determine when this point has been reached.
• Requirement for slaughter and processing include a clean place away from any obvious
source of flies or dogs, something from which to hang the rabbit whilst cleaning it, a
sharp knife, a bowl or source of clean water, a container for the blood and guts and any
thing that is being kept separate from the meat, a clean container with cover for the rabbit
carcass, some string or thin wire a skin drying frame, a stick the thickness of a pencil
smoothly rounded at on end.
• Killing should be carried out as quickly as possible and as efficiently as possible, with the
minimum of pain to the rabbit. There are two methods of killing rabbits. Both involve
making the rabbit unconscious and then removing the head to allow bleeding the methods
are Neck breaking and Stunning method.
• For easy skinning of rabbits, cut off the front legs at their midpoint, and then the tail.
Next, cut the skin around each hook below where the string is tied. Cut from the inside of
one hock down, around the anus and tail area and similarly down the inside of the other
leg from the hock. Now, using the round stick and with care gently work the skin
downwards and off the body.
1a) what are the requirements to be fulfilled before slaughtering and processing of
rabbits?
b) Explain the methods used in killing rabbits and their limitations.
Macmillan

Pig Management
Unit 1: General introduction to Pig Management
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
3.1 Taxonomy (Biological Classification)
3.2 Advantages of pig farming
3.3 Disadvantages of pig farming
3.4 Breeds of pigs
3.4.1 Indigenous breeds (unimproved)
3.4.2 Exotic breeds in the tropics
3.4.3 Duroc
3.4.4 Large white (Yorkshire)
3.4.5 Landrace
3.4.6 Hampshire
3.4.7 Tamworth
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary

Pig Management
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
3.1 Small-scale systems
3.2 Pig kept as scavengers
3.2.1 Advantages of small-scale systems
3.2.2 Disadvantages of small-scale systems
3.3 Semi-intensive production
3.3.1 Advantages of semi-intensive
3.3.2 Disadvantages of semi-intensive
3.4 Intensive production
3.4.1 Advantages of intensive pig production
3.4.2 Disadvantages
3.5 Large-scale systems
3.5.1 Intensive
3.5.2 Advantages of large-scale systems
3.5.3 Disadvantages
3.6 Extensive systems
3.6.1 Advantages of the extensive systems
3.6.2 Disadvantages of the extensive systems
3.7 Integrated systems
3.7.1 Advantages of integrated systems
3.7.2 Disadvantages of the integrated systems
3.8 Housing
3.8.1 General consideration of designing pig house
3.9 Pig equipment
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary
Introduction to Non-Ruminant Animal Management

Pig Management
unit 3: Principles of Feeding pigs and Feed resources
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
3.1 Gastro intestinal tract (G.I.T) and nutrient utilization
3.2 Nutrient requirement of pigs
3.2.1 Water
3.2.2 Energy
3.2.3 Protein
3.2.4 Minerals
3.2.5 Vitamins
3.3 Feeding
3.4 Anti-nutritional factors
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary

Pig Management
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
3.1 Management considerations
3.1.1 Stockman ship

3.1.2 Handling and restraint
3.1.3 Hygiene
3.2 Management of breeding stock
3.2.1 Selecting boar for service
3.2.2 Mating conditions
3.2.3 Frequency of use and boar-to-sow ratio
3.3 Management of Gilts/ Sows
3.3.1 Pigs breeding cycle
3.3.2 Recommended practices
3.3.3 Preparation for farrowing
3.4 Management of piglets
3.4.1 Creep feeding
3.4.2 Provision of iron
3.5 Management of Weaners
3.6 Management of Growing and finishing pigs
3.7 Culling of sows
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary

Pig Management
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content

3.1 Parasites
3.1.1 External parasites
3.1.2 Endo parasites of pigs
3.2 Infectious diseases
3.3 Non specific
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary


Pig Management
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
3.1 Transport
3.2 Lairage
3.3 Slaughter procedure
3.3.1 Bleeding
3.3.2 Scalding and de-hairing
3.3.3 Evisceration
3.3.4 Meat hygiene
3.4 Marketing
3.5 Uses of pig meat
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary

Unit 1: General introduction to Pig Management
1.0 Introduction…………………………………………………………………. 134
2.0 Objectives………………………………………………………………… 134
3.0 Main Content………………………………………………………………. 135
3.1 Taxonomy (Biological Classification)…………………………………….. 135
3.2 Advantages of pig farming ……………………………………………. 135
3.3 Disadvantages of pig farming……………………………………………… 135
3.4 Breeds of pigs………………………………………………………………. 136
3.4.1 Indigenous breeds (unimproved)…………………………………………… 136
3.4.2 Exotic breeds in the tropics………………………………………………… 138
3.4.3 Duroc ……………………………………………………………………… 138
3.4.4 Large white (Yorkshire)……………………………………………………. 138
3.4.5 Landrace……………………………………………………………………. 139
3.4.6 Hampshire………………………………………………………………….. 139

3.4.7 Tamworth………………………………………………………………….. 140
4.0 Conclusion………………………………………………………………… 140
5.0 Summary …………………………………………………………………. 140
6.0 Tutor marked Assignment ………………………………………………… 141
1.0 Introduction
The origin of the pig is difficult to understand, it is possible that it is mainly derived from the
European wild boar. Pigs were thought to have been domesticated as early as 200BC. Since
then man has developed the pig as meat animal.
World pig population
The estimated world pig population of 826 million (FAO, 1988) means that there is
approximately one pig for every six people in the world. A comparison of the meat produced
by pig with other domestic species has revealed that more pig meat is produced than any
other meat despite the fact that pigs are numerically fewer than other domestic species.
Table 1.1 A comparison of the main livestock species in the world in terms of numbers
and meat production
Domestic species Numbers Meat output
(million head) (000 metric tonnes per
year)
Cattle 1 253 50 098
Buffalo 137
Sheep 1 174 8 801
Goat 521
Poultry 10 050 11 495
Pigs 826 63 917

(Source: FAO Quarterly bulletin of statistics, 1989)
Distribution and Consumption
The distribution of pigs around the world is not the same. Almost half the world’s pig
population is in Asia, 30 percent in Europe and the former USSR. The population of pigs in
large parts of the tropical and sub-tropical developing regions for example Africa and Latin
America is relatively small. See fig.1.1
S. Americcca
6.00% Africa 1.50%
Oceania 0.60%
N & C America
10.50%
USSR 9.50% Asia 49.00%
Europe
22.90%
Fig 1.1 Regional distribution of the world pig population (FAO 1988)
Source: (Pigs) The Tropical Agriculturalist by D. H. Holness, A. J. Smith, and R. Coste page 2
It is important to note that most of the world pigs population is located in China.
There is marked differences in the consumption patterns of pig meat throughout the world. In
some parts of Europe, annual per capita consumption of pig mea is over 50kg, and represents
some 60 percent of the total meat consumed. In he developing countries and particularly in
Africa, estimated annual per capita consumption ranges from
1 to 3 kg, and forms less than 10 percent of the total meat diet.
The reasons for the un even distribution of pigs throughout the tropical and sub-tropical
world are many. In Asia and parts of China, pork is the predominant component of the diet.
While in areas where the Islamic religion prevails, e.g. the Middle East, Pakistan and parts of
Africa, Muslims are forbidden to eat any pig meat, similarly, believers in the Jewish faith are
instructed not to eat pork meat, and many Zionist sects obey the same rules. Social factors
also play an important role in pig population for example in some pacific islands, pigs are
highly regarded as a source of wealth and associated with marriage customs.

1. Give an account of world pig population, their distribution and consumption
around the world.
2.0 Objectives

a) Explain the significant role played by pigs in meat production.
b) Compare pig meat production capacity with other domestic species
c) Understand the advantages and disadvantages of keeping pigs.
d) Know the distribution and consumption of pigs around the world.
e) Recognize the problems or constraints of pig production in Nigeria.
f) Make a distinction between the different commercial breeds of pigs and their
characteristics.
3.0 Main Content

3.1 Taxonomy (Biological Classification)
Below is the taxonomy of the pig:
Kingdom - Animalia
Phylum - Chordata (Animas with back bones)
Class – Mammalia (Warm blooded animals that suckle their young)
Order - Artiodactyy (Even toed hoof)
Family - Suidae (non-ruminant or single stomach system)
Genus – Sus (Restricted wild European boars with which domestic pigs are bred
From)
Specie – Sus Scrofa and sus Vitatus
3.2 Advantages of pig farming

1) They have the potential to be highly prolific. Because they are cable of producing
large litters after a relatively short gestation period, and have a short generation
interval and grow fast.
2) Their productivity in terms of yield of meat per tonne of live weight of breeding
females per year is in the region of six times that of cattle.
3) There body size makes them more flexible for Marketing and consumption compared
to cattle.
4) Pigs meat is suitable for processing and some of the processed products have a
longer shelf life than fresh meat, and can thus be distributed to a wider section of
the population.
5) Pigs are efficient feed converters to meat twice as efficiently as ruminants.(i.e.
they have high feed efficiency)
6) Pig production provides quick turn-over on investment compared with cattle.
7) Curative and preventive drugs are available for most swine diseases.
8) Pigs also gives useful by-product like their feaces can be used as a good source of
manure.
9) Pigs can be reared almost any where given suitable housing and management
although their management in extreme temperature can be expensive.
10) They produce meat without contributing to the deterioration of the natural grazing
lands. This is important considering the steady desertification, soil erosion and loss
of productive land in some areas of the tropics.
3.3 Disadvantages of pig farming
1) There is poor product acceptance in areas where the Islamic religion prevails, e.g. the
Middle East, Pakistan and parts of Africa, Muslims are forbidden to eat any pig meat,
similarly, believers in the Jewish faith are instructed not to eat pork meat, and many Zionist
sects obey the same rules. In other words there is strong taboo against the eating of poultry
product, thereby negatively affecting the market for the products.
2) While Social factors play an important role in their acceptance, the pig has historically
been
considered an un clean animal, wallowing in filth, an object of dislike and a risk to
human
health.
3) The digestive tract of pigs and Birds is relatively short compared to other farm animals
and
can only utilize high quality concentrate feeds (E.g. staple grains and oilseeds) These
are
also use as feed for human making them to be in direct competition with man.
4) They cannot provide a source of drought power for farming operations.
5) They are raised close to human habitation and thereby making heir waste product a
pollution problem.
II) Terminology
1) Boar - mature uncastrated male.
2) Barrow: - mature castrated male before puberty.
3) Hog: - castrated male.
4) Stag: - adult male castrated later in life.
5) Shoat: - swine of both sex weighing 30-80kg
6) Gilt - young female swine before farrowing.
7) Sow: - adult or mature female after one or two pregnancies
8) Barrener: - sterile female
9) Farrow: - giving birth to young ones.
10) Herd: - group of swine
11) Litters: - young ones (piglets).
3.4 Breeds of pigs
There are over 90 recognized breeds and an estimated 230 varieties of pigs in the world. They
can be broadly classified into indigenous or unimproved types or the more modern exotic
types which have been selected and developed for specific commercial purposes.
3.4.1 Indigenous breeds (unimproved)

These are mostly found in developing countries and have evolved a variety of shapes and
sizes in order to survive in a range of different environments. Generally they are smaller and
shorter of leg than the exotic types (mature weight of females 40- 120 kg), with the typical
unimproved conformation of a large head, well- developed forequarters and relatively light
hindquarters. This renders them more mobile and better able to forage and root for
themselves. They are early sexually maturing and females may show first oestrus as early as
three months of age. There are many variations of coat colour, but black and brown are most
common and white is infrequent. The degree of hairiness also varies, and both hairless and
relatively long –haired types are found. Within the major regions of the tropics, the main
breeds and types are as follows:
Africa
Pigs are not characterized into specific breeds in most African Countries. They are known as
‘indigenous,’ ‘local’ or unimproved pigs.
In some parts of Africa more specific use is made of pigs for meat production and the bakosi
in the Cameroons and the Ashanti Dwarf in Ghana are examples of indigenous breeds. Their
characteristics include small with mature female size of 40-60kg, and are mainly black in
colour with prick ears.
The unimproved pigs of East, Central and Southern Africa are mostly descended from stock
introduced by early European travelers, and therefore not truly indigenous, they are relatively
wide spread.
The productivity of these unimproved breeds in Africa is influenced by their environment and
some typical reproductive performance figures are shown in Table 1.2
The trials indicated that although litter sizes tended to be smaller, total live weight of the litter
as a proportion of the weight of the sow at farrowing was of the same order as exotic sows
(11 percent).
Table 1.2The reproductive performance of unimproved breeds of pigs in Africa
Nigeria Zimbabwe South Ghana
Africa (Ashanti)
(Dwarf)
Litter-size at birth 6.5 7.9 7.2 6.3
Litter-size at weaning 5.5 7.5 - -
Pre-weaning mortality (%) 15.0 5.0 - -
Average weaning age (wks) 9.0 8.0 8.0 8.0
Average weaning mass (kg) - 7.6 9.0 7.0
3.4.2 Exotic breeds in the tropics
3.4.3 Duroc
This has droppy ears and is deep red or rusty colour. It is a fast growing large breed.
The Duroc produces a very good carcass and is said to be an excellent meat producer.
Also it has the ability to grow to heavier weights without depositing too much fat.
. The duroc is a hardy animal which survives well in tropical climate. It is generally used for
cross-breeding.
Fig1.2 A Duroc sow

3.4.4 Large white (Yorkshire)

This breed was first developed in Yorkshire, England. It has erect ears and is white in colour
and females are prolific. It is renowned for its strength of leg. The breed can be used for both
pork and bacon production. It is a fairly hardy animal but will suffer from sun-burn if it is
not kept in a building out of the sun.
Fig1.3 A large white (yokshire) boar

3.4.5 Landrace
It is characterized by its forward-pointing lop ears and possesses a long, smooth body with
light shoulders and well developed hams. It is white in colour, this swine is good for bacon
production, but has a higher level of susceptibility o stress and requires a high level of
management.
Fig1.4 A landrace boar

3.4.6 Hampshire
This swine is black with distinct white saddle which encircles the forequarter. They are
prolific, good mothers, and good milking ability. It has more meat than the large white and
landrace. It is probably best kept for cross breeding.
Fig 1.5 A Hampshire boar

Tamworth
Fig1.6 Breeds of pigs

3.4.7 Tamworth:
This hardy animal is reddish colour and with erect ears. It is an efficient converter of feed.
The breed is relatively slow-maturing. In the past it has been very popular for cross-breeding
purposes in tropical regions.
Other exotic breeds include the Chester white, the large black, the middle white e.t.c.
4.0 Conclusion
The estimated world pig population of 826 million (FAO, 1988) means that there is
approximately one pig for every six people in the world. A comparison of the meat produced
by pig with other domestic species has revealed that more pig meat is produced than any
other meat despite the fact that pigs are numerically fewer than other domestic species.
5.0 Summary
• The distribution of pigs around the world is not the same. Almost half the world’s pig
population is in Asia, 30 percent in Europe and the former USSR. The population of
pigs in large parts of the tropical and sub-tropical developing regions for example Africa
and Latin America is relatively small.
• Advantages of pig farming include: the potential to be highly prolific, body size makes
them more flexible for Marketing and consumption compared to cattle, Pigs meat is
suitable for processing and the processed products have a longer shelf life than fresh
meat, efficient feed converters, useful by-product e.t.c. while their disadvantages include
poor product acceptance, social and religious factors, pollution e.t.c.
• There are over 90 recognized breeds and an estimated 230 varieties of pigs in the world.
They can be broadly classified into indigenous or unimproved types or the more modern
exotic types which have been selected and developed for specific commercial purposes.
• Bakosi in the Cameroons and the Ashanti Dwarf in Ghana are examples of indigenous
breeds. While the exotic breeds include: Duroc, Large white (Yorkshire), Landrace,
Hampshire, Tamworth.
1a) Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of pig farming.

b) Name six exotic breeds of pigs found in the tropics and describe the
characteristic features of any three.
Adi, M. A. (1994) Sheep, Goat and Swine production in Nigeria

Holness, D.H., Smith, A.J. and Coste, R. (1991) Pigs The Tropical Agriculturalist (CTA)
Macmillan
tropics.

Pig Management
1.0 Introduction………………………………………………………………….. 143
2.0 Objectives………………………………………………………………….. 143
3.0 Main Content………………………………………………………………. 143
3.1 Small-scale systems ……………………………………………………….. 143
3.2 Pig kept as scavengers…………………………………………………… 143
3.2.1 Advantages of small-scale systems……………………………………… 143
3.2.2 Disadvantages of small-scale systems……………………………………… 144
3.3 Semi-intensive production………………………………………………… 144
3.3.1 Advantages of semi-intensive…………………………………………… 144
3.3.2 Disadvantages of semi-intensive…………………………………………… 144
3.4 Intensive production……………………………………………………….. 144
3.4.1 Advantages of intensive pig production…………………………………… 144
3.4.2 Disadvantages………………………………………………………………. 145
3.5 Large-scale systems………………………………………………………… 145
3.5.1 Intensive……………………………………………………………………. 145
3.5.2 Advantages of large-scale systems………………………………………… 145
3.5.3 Disadvantages………………………………………………………………. 145
3.6 Extensive systems………………………………………………………….. 145
3.6.1 Advantages of the extensive system……………………………………….. 145
3.6.2 Disadvantages of the extensive systems……………………………………. 146
3.7 Integrated systems………………………………………………………….. 146
3.7.1 Advantages of integrated systems………………………………………….. 146
3.7.2 Disadvantages of the integrated systems…………………………………… 146
3.8 Housing …………………………………………………………………… 146
3.8.1 General consideration of designing pig house……………………………… 147
3.9 Pig equipment………………………………………………………………. 148
4.0 Conclusion………………………………………………………………….. 149
5.0 Summary……………………………………………………………………. 149
1.0 Introduction
The system of pig production is diverse there is the traditional method of rearing in large
parts of the tropics which is the simplest and cheapest. The intensive system on the other
hand entails considerable capital and specialized management skills. The integrated systems
involve the production of pigs with other enterprises like fish farming, production of algae,
methane gas generation, ducks and vegetable production. Such types of operations enhance
the efficiency of resource use and increase output for the overall operation. Regardless of the
system of production, any one considering pig production on a large scale should investigate
the marketing and processing facilities available and obtain expert advice.
2.0 Objectives
a) Be familiar with the different systems used in pig production and know the
advantages and disadvantages of each production system.
b) Give explanation why there is a need for our pig farmers to practice intensive system
of pig production.
c) Understand the guide lines on how to improve on our Pig production system in
Nigeria.
d) To distinguish the different commercial breeds of pigs that are suitable for each
production system based on their Characteristics.
e) Appreciate the general principles of housing pigs and in some cases the necessary
adjustment needed in housing pigs in hot climates.
f) Know the common equipment used on pig farms.
3.0 Main Content

3.1 Small-scale systems
3.2 Pig kept as scavengers
Is a traditional method of rearing pigs in many areas of the tropics where pigs are kept as
scavengers, with no housing or medical care. It is simple and cheap, usually few pigs are
allowed to wander freely and pick up food where ever they can. Supplementary food will be
given where available in the form of kitchen wastes, rice bran, by-products of beer-making,
maize stalks etc. These supplementary foods generally consist of low nutritional value and
indigenous breeds of pigs predominate on the scavenging system. They are well adapted to
the local environment and their relatively small size and mobility render them best able to
cope with the conditions.
3.2.1 Advantages of small-scale systems

1) It is cheap and simple involving small or no amount of capital.
2) The pig plays an important socio-economic role as a form of bank, and pigs are sold
at times of cash shortages or unexpected needs in the family.
3.2.2 Disadvantages of small-scale systems

1) Pigs raised on this system are susceptible to infestation with parasites and carry
heavy burden of intestinal round worms and tapeworms.
2) Productivity is normally low because of seasonal supply of food resulting in
irregular breeding of sows.
3) There is high rates of piglet mortality and low growth rates.

4) There is hazard of the scavenging system to humans because pigs have access to
sources of parasites, e.g. human excreta, which can then be transmitted back to man
when he eats the meat.
3.3 Semi-intensive production

This system is also known as ‘backyard’ system, here pigs are confined to a house and are fed
by the farmer. The house is in the form of pens made from simple construction using bamboo
and elevated. Feeding is based on kitchen waste, vegetables and by-product foods and
management is generally minimal.
3.3.1 Advantages of semi-intensive
1) More attention is giving to the pigs than in the scavenging system.
2) Generally, herd sizes and productivity tend to be higher in these systems than in the
scavenging systems.
3.3.2 Disadvantages of semi-intensive
1) Productivity is relatively low compared to the intensive production.
2) Mortality can be high.
3.4 Intensive production

This is an improvement from the small-scale production to a commercial production of pigs.
Units may comprise up to 50 head, and the producer will grow and /or purchases food
specifically high pig enterprise. In this system the housing is more sophisticated made up of
concrete hard floor, adequate shelter, shed and pen space and appropriate feed and watering
facilities.
3.4.1 Advantages of intensive pig production
1) There is improvement in the management and protection against infectious diseases and
parasites by the farmer through the use of veterinary drugs and vaccines.
2) The system is characterized by rising high performance breeds for example exotic or
cross breeds with indigenous breeds.
3) Markets are well established through arrangements with local butchers on regular bases or
into the large-scale commercial sector, to bring in a regular income for the enterprise.
4) No risks of trouble from predators and thieves.
3.4.2 Disadvantages
1) It is capital intensive
2) High level of management skills is needed.
3) Increase chances of nutrient deficiency especially when pigs are not well fed.
3.5 Large-scale systems

3.5.1 Intensive
This is an intensive system of rearing and is the most common method of large- scale
production. It is capital intensive and involve sow herds from 40 up to 1000 head. High
performance breeds of pigs are used and are provided with optimum conditions of housing,
feeding and management in order to ensure maximum output. Housing is designed for
different classes of the stock and environmental conditions. This system is usually
incorporated with grain production and stock feed manufacturing operations on the one hand,
and marketing on the other. The pigs will invariably be marketed through a processor in order
t maximize returns on the carcass.
3.5.2 Advantages of large-scale systems

1) No risks of trouble from predators and thieves.
2) With proper condition, there is less risk of parasitic infection.
3) Generates revenue for nation and a source of employment for the people
3.5.3 Disadvantages
4) High level of managerial skill is needed.
5) Increase chances of nutrient deficiency especially when pigs are not well fed.
6) Difficulties of keeping the floor clean especially during the rainy season when humidity is
very high.
3.6 Extensive systems
There is a trend in Europe and America towards less intensive system of pig production
particularly for sows. This system is often known as ‘outdoor’ system. In this system sows
are kept in paddocks and providing individual huts for farrowing and shelter. Weaner pigs are
generally raised under more intensive conditions.
Production of these types exists in the tropics and there are greater potentials in the systems.
3.6.1 Advantages of the extensive system
1) Less capital is required for the establishment compared to the intensive systems.
2) Sows can gain access to foods such as pastures, crop residues, cassava roots and sweet
potatoes.
3.6.2 Disadvantages of the extensive systems

1) In the tropics shade and wallows must be provided, there must be tight control of
parasites and adequate fencing to prevent contact with endemic diseases e.g. African
swine fever.
3.7 Integrated systems

This is the practice of integration of pig production with other enterprises and has been
practiced in tropical countries. Various combinations are used for e.g. fish farming,
production of algae, methane gas generation, ducks and vegetable production. This type of
combinations along with pig production enhances the efficiency of resource use and increase
output for the overall enterprise.
3.7.1 Advantages of integrated systems

1) By fertilizing fish ponds with pig manure and effluent, algae are generated which can
then be utilized by fish. If sufficient water is available for suitable fish ponds, pig sties
can either be constructed above the ponds.
2) Manure from the pigs can be channeled into the ponds to supply nutrients to the fish
ponds there by generating more revenue to the farmer.
3) Alternatively, the nutrient-rich water from the pigs can be used for irrigating vegetables
4) Ponds can also be dried in rotation and vegetables grown in dry pond beds for family and
commercial purposes.
5) The pig effluent can be used to produce algae which is then harvested and dried and fed
back to pigs or other livestock.
6) The anaerobic fermentation of pig effluent can be used in the production of methane
gas. Relatively simple digesters can produce a steady source of methane which can be
used as a means of energy for domestic and agricultural use
3.7.2 Disadvantages of the integrated systems

1) It is capital intensive.
2) It requires high level of managerial skills.
3.8 Housing
Pigs do better when housed, and their buildings should be of concrete or with stones due to
their rooting nature. Pigs productivity are more when they are housed in a thermally neutral
environment i.e. when the environmental temperature around the pig is consistently between
the pigs lower critical temperature (LCT) and upper critical temperature (UCT). The pig’s
metabolic heat production is then at minimum, and it is neither using feed energy to keep
warm, nor reducing feed intake to keep cool.
Other consideration for pig comfort include:
a) Protection from other climatic extremes such as direct sun, wind and rain,
b) Provision of dry conditions which are hygienic and do not predispose the pig to disease as
they easily get pneumonia.
c) Allowance for natural behavioral pattern of the pig as far as possible and minimizing the
effect f social dominance
d) Provision of accessible food and clean water;
e) Providing conditions such that good stockman ship can be practiced.
f) Effective disposal of waste matter.
3.8.1 General consideration of designing pig house.

Right design of house is of paramount importance so that investment is justified by improved
productivity. The land has to be well drained, non swampy and outskirts of the settlement
away from public utilities like source of drinking water to prevent contamination. If the land
is swampy drainage system should be constructed and the building foundation should be aid
with stones and concrete and well elevated.
In very cold areas, beddings of dry grass or wood shavings could be provided in their
sleeping sties to provide warmth and easy cleaning of the sties, this also helps the pigs look
cleaner.
Adequate ventilation should be provided by having enough windows on the building to allow
for cross ventilation. This windows may be open or close depending on the need and situation
in the environmental temperature.
Most of the breeds of pigs in Nigeria are either exotic or cross breeds they are tolerant to
cold. However, if they are taken to the southern humid or hot northern parts of Nigeria the
paramount consideration is generally to ameliorate the effects of excess heat by provision of
adequate shade and wallows as a means f coolant to prevent heat stress.
Alternatively pigs should be sprinkled with water when there is excessive heat.
Pigs buildings should be of concrete or with stones due to their rooting nature. They should
be placed in their sites according to their ages and sexes to make for uniform feeding and
prevent indiscriminate mating and high in-breeding.
Some examples of pigs housing include:

i) Danish swine house
ii) Traditional swine house
iii) field
i) Danish swine house:-
A fattening house with a central feeding passage along the walls.
ii) Traditional pig house
Swine house:-for a small farmer , a series of simple pens with an outside run attached, may
be sufficient , swine require warm dry housing as they easily get pneumonia. The floor
should be well concrete and the unit not too near the dwelling house of the farmer because
of smell ad flies.
iii) Field housing;
This can be a simple shelter made of wood . The shelter is in a field and the swine have free
range .Generally it is not advisable to keep swine outside in the tropics as they are then
subject to African swine fever and kidney worm.
Table 2.1 Recommended space requirements for pigs

Class of swine Area
Boars 9 m2
Dry sows 2 m long x 0.64 m wide

Stalls As for stalls put similar exercise
Cubicles area
Yards 3-4 m2 per sow
Farrowing accommodation
Pen including crate 6.2m2
Fattening/follow-on (including creep area) 10m2
Weaners
Cages (per pig) 0.2m2 lying area + 0.2m2 slatted area
Yards (per pig) 0.7-0.9m2
Porkers
(pen, including dunging area) 0.73m2 per pig
Baconers
(pen including dunging area) 0.93m2 per pig
Heavy pigs
Trough space (par pig)

Fatteners 0.2-0.3m2
Maiden gilts, sows 0.35m2
3.9 Pig equipment

The following are tools to work with in a pig farm
1) Scalpel blades for incision and castration
2) Syringes and needles
3) Thermometer for taking temperature
4) Antiseptics and Disinfectants for cleaning wounds and disinfecting pen
5) Restraining ropes (snare) used in restraining pigs during farm operations.
6) Tail docking forceps
7) Cotton wool and bandages for dressing and bandaging of wounds
8) Protective clothing like boots, laboratory coats, head wear
9) Teeth clippers for cutting piglets, needle teeth.
10) Feeders and drinkers
11) Muzzle for handling mouth during farm operations
12) Ear notches and ear tags and tag applicator for individual identification.
1a) Enumerate on the general consideration of designing a pig house and give
examples of pig housing commonly found in the tropics.
b) Outline the tools to work with in a pig farm.
4.0 Conclusion
Regardless of the system of production, any one considering pig production on a large scale
should investigate the marketing and processing facilities available and obtain expert advice
before embarking on the operation.
5.0 Summary
• The system of pig production is diverse there is the traditional method of rearing in large
parts of the tropics which is the simplest and cheapest. The intensive system on the other
hand entails considerable capital and specialized management skills. The integrated
systems involve the production of pigs with other enterprises like fish farming,
production of algae, methane gas generation, ducks and vegetable production. Such types
of operations enhance the efficiency of resource use and increase output for the overall
operation.
• Pigs do better when housed, and their buildings should be of concrete or with stones due
to their rooting nature. Pigs productivity are more when they are housed in a thermally
neutral environment i.e. when the environmental temperature around the pig is
consistently between the pigs lower critical temperature (LCT) and upper critical
temperature (UCT). The pig’s metabolic heat production is then at minimum, and it is
neither using feed energy to keep warm, nor reducing feed intake to keep cool.
• Right design of house is of paramount importance so that investment is justified by
improved productivity. The land has t be well drained, non swampy and outskirts of the
settlement away from public utilities like source of drinking water to prevent
contamination. If the land is swampy drainage system should be constructed and the
building foundation should be aid with stones and concrete and well elevated.
• In very cold areas, beddings of dry grass or wood shavings could be provided in their
sleeping sties to provide warmth and easy cleaning of the sties, this also helps the pigs
look cleaner.
• Most of the breeds of pigs in Nigeria are either exotic or cross breeds they are tolerant to
cold. However, if they are taken to the southern humid or hot northern parts of Nigeria the
paramount consideration is generally to ameliorate the effects of excess heat by provision
of adequate shade and wallows as a means f coolant to prevent heat stress. Alternatively
pigs should be sprinkled with water when there is excessive heat.
6.0 Tutor Marked Assignments

1a) List all the production systems of pig farming and discuss the merits
and demerits of each system.

Macmillan
tropics.

Pig Management
unit 3: Principles of Feeding pigs and Feed resources
1.0 Introduction……………………………………………………………. 152
2.0 Objectives……………………………………………………………... 152
3.0 Main Content………………………………………………………….. 152
3.1 Gastro intestinal tract (G.I.T) and nutrient utilization………………… 152
3.2 Nutrient requirement of pigs…………………………………………. 154
3.2.1 Water ………………………………………………………………… 154
3.2.2 Energy……………………………………………………………….. 155
3.2.3 Protein………………………………………………………………….. 155
3.2.4 Minerals ……………………………………………………………. 156
3.2.5 Vitamins ……………………………………………………………. 157
3.3 Feeding………………………………………………………………. 157
3.4 Anti-nutritional factors………………………………………………. 159
4.0 Conclusion……………………………………………………………. 159
5.0 Summary……………………………………………………………… 159
6.0 Tutor marked assignment…………………………………………….. 160
7.0 References and Further readings…………………………………….. 160
1.0 Introduction
Nutrition and feeding management are very important aspect of swine production. There fore
it is extremely important that swine producers have a good understanding of the nutrient
requirement of swine during each phase of their life cycle, a knowledge of the feed stuff
which can be used in swine feeding and an appreciation for the final point of feeding
management in order to raise swine economically. Unfortunately, many swine farmers keep
them in rather poor conditions and so are not able to make as much profit as they should.
Swine are particularly affected by dirty, drafty housing and quickly becomes sick. They are
also affected by poor feeding. The major groups of essential nutrients for pigs are energy,
protein, minerals, vitamins and water.
2.0 Objectives
a) Understand the terms energy, protein, minerals, vitamins as they apply to nutrition
in the pig.
b) Learned the nutritional requirement of pigs and daily food allowances of various
classes of pigs.
c) Be acquainted with the essential and non essential amino acids and the amounts
ideal for growing pigs.
d) Appreciate the recommended nutrient allowance for pigs under tropical
condition
e) Be familiar with growth rate, feed intake and floor space required of different classes
of pigs.
f) To know how the Gastro intestinal tract (G.I.T) of the pig accomplish nutrient
utilization.
3.0 Main Content
3.1 Gastro intestinal tract (G.I.T) and nutrient utilization

Swine has the ability to obtain nutrient from a wide variety of feed stuff. Historically the wild
swine was omnivorous consuming both vegetative and animal feeds in the early days ,
domestic pigs were allowed to forage on grass , roots refuse and what ever else is available .
swine is a simple stomach animal, so it must rely largely on feeds having readily digestible
carbohydrate to meet its energy needs. The gastro intestinal tract (GIT) is important to the
animal because it is made up of a number of organs that are responsible for utilization of food
and nutrient. Further more, some knowledge of its anatomy and function is helpful in
evaluating feed stuff and formulation of diet. Some knowledge in how the GIT digest feed
and factors that affect feed utilization is important because loses in digestibility have a
marked effect on efficiency of feed utilization. In addition, many feed related factors may
alter or change normal functioning of the GIT. Consequently some degree of familiarity with
its anatomy and function are important for a reasonable understanding of practices and
problems in feeding livestock. The more complex carbohydrate, cellulose hemicellulose
found in roughage and other fibrous feeds are broken down by microbial fermentation only.
Swine dose not have a rumen. The fibrous component of the diet are not utilize as efficiently
as in ruminant animals. Also simple stomach animal like swine are dependent upon certain
essential amino acids present in dietary protein from which they build their own body protein
unlike the ruminant animal, swine cannot synthesis the essential amino acids from poor
quality protein or from non-protein nitrogen sources. The relative amounts of the essential
amino acids in the protein are extremely important to swine.The alimentary tract of the pig
(fig ww) is designed to digest and absorb concentrated foods. The GIT of simple stomach
mammalian specie like the pig include the mouth and associated structures: a. mouth . b.
salivary glands c. oesophagus d. stomach e. small and large intestines e. pancrease f.

liver
Stomach
fig 3.1 The digestive tact of pigs
Source: (Pigs) The Tropical Agriculturalist by D. H.

Holness, A. J. Smith, and R. Coste page 7
These various organs and other structures are concern with procuring, chewing and
swallowing food and with the digestion and absorption of nutrient as well as with some
excretory function
Food taken in the mouth is ground in to a pulp by mastication. At the same time it is
moistened and mixed with saliva. Saliva contains the enzyme ptyalin which initiates the
break down of starch to simpler carbohydrates. The food then passes on into the stomach,
which provides an acid environment due to the presence of hydrochloric acid. The gastric
juice contains enzyme pepsin which begins the break down of protein.
The small intestine is the major site where food absorption occurs, and digestive juice from
the pancrease, liver and the small intestine complete the process of digestion. Digestion has
been defied simply as the preparation of food for absorption. It may include mechanical
forces such as chewing or mastication, muscular contraction of the GIT. The overall function
of the various digestive processes is to reduce food particles to a size of solubility that will
allow for absorption. For instance, starch is hydrolysed to maltose by amylase from the
pancreatic juice. Maltose and other disaccharides sugars are broken down by specific
enzymes in the intestinal juice, eg. Maltase, lactase and sucrase in to monosaccharides such
as glucose and fructose these are then absorbed through the gut wall.
Trypsin in the pancreatic juice acts on protein to produce polypeptides, which are then broken
down to amino acids by various peptidases in the intestinal juice and subsequently absorbed.
Bile which is secreted by the liver, serves to emulsify fats into smaller globules, which are
then broken down by enzyme lipase into fatty acids and glycerol ready for absorption. Lipase
is present in both the pancreatic and intestinal juices.
Absorption includes various processes that allow small molecules of digestible food to pass
through the membrane of the GIT into the blood or lymph systems. The shape of the stomach
of different animal species vary as thus the relative size within species as well as among
species. In swine, the stomach is relatively large with a capacity in the adult on the order of 6-
8 litres. The weight of the stomach and its content is about 4% of body weight as compare to
1% in human. Most of the stomach is lined with mucosan cells which produce mucus that
serves to protect the stomach lining from gastric secretions. In the central part of the stomach
there are gastric glands which produce mixed secretion of enzymes and mucus. These gastric
juices are effective in initiating digestion in the stomach. In swine the small intestine is
relatively long 15-20meters. The first portion of secretion is the duodenum which is the side
for production of various digestive juices. Other juices enter the duodenum from the bile
duct, while Other juices are derived from the liver and the pancrease. The small intestine is
lined with small finger like projections the villi, which serves to increase surface area for
absorption. The large intestine is made up of the caecum, colon and rectum. The relative
length diameter differ considerably in different species of animal.
Pigs are omnivores and will consume a wide range of foods from both pant and animal
sources. The natural inclination of the pig is to eat on a ‘little and often’ basis, and this is
likely to maximize both total food intake and the efficiency of food utilization.
3.2 Nutrient requirement of pigs
3.2.1 Water
Water is one of the most important nutrient classes. Swine of all ages should have free
access to fresh and clean water at all times. Limiting water intake will result in reduce growth
rate and efficiency of gain in pigs and reduce milk production in lactating sows. A severe
limitation of drinking water can cause death in pigs. The requirement of water is influenced
by many factors including environmental temperature and humidity, composition of the feed
and weight of the pig.
Table 3.1 water requirement of pigs
Type of pig: Water requirement for each kilo of feed/litre
Fattening pigs 2.5
Lactating sows 5.0
Dry sows 3.0
Piglets’ ad libertum (freely as needed)
3.2.2 Energy
Apart from water, sources of energy are the most important food requirements of the pig and
will most rapidly influence its survival if withdrawn. Energy can be defined as the capacity to
do work and occurs in various inter-convertible forms such as chemical, thermal or radiant
energy. It is normally measured in heat units, traditionally the calorie, but now the megajoule
(MJ) is the most commonly-used unit (where 1 MJ = 0239 MCals).
Nursing pigs derived most of their energy from fat and sugar lactose in milk. Most of the
energy for growing pigs is derived from metabolism of starch because of insufficient amylase
starch digestive enzyme in the small intestine. Protein I excess of the requirement can be use
as an energy source but it is too expensive or costly to use protein as a source of energy. But
in older animal sow and finishing fee, a limited amount of energy can be derived from
volatile fatty acid product produce by bacteria fermentation of fibre. In the large intestine,
energy requirement of pigs are expressed as digestible energy (D.E.) and metabolisable
energy (M.E.). For all weight classes of pigs, the metabolisable energy (M.E.)is
approximately 96% of the digestible energy requirement. Energy requirement of pigs are
influenced by their weight which influences the maintenance requirement by their genetic
capacity for growth or milk synthesis and by the environmental temperature in which they are
housed. The energy requirement for maintenance is directly related to metabolic body weight
and is approximately 110kcal of digestible energy (D.E.) per kilogram body weight. Energy
food is mixed with maize, rice, sorghum, cassava, sweet potato and cereal grain.
3.2.3 Protein
Protein consists of some 20 basic units known as amino acids. When protein is eaten by the
pig, it is broken down to the amino-acids, which are then used for the building up of the
essential organs of the body and the skeletal muscle (lean tissue). Nine of the amino acids
required by the pig cannot be synthesized by its body, and they must be supplied in the diet.
If they are present in insufficient quantities, the pig will not grow and may not even survive.
Swine require ten (10) essential amino acid in it’s diet for normal body function. A good
quality protein is one that provides the amino acids in the amount and proportion necessary
for the particular need of the pig (growth, reproduction and lactation). Protein food are oil
seed e.g. cotton seed, soybean groundnuts coconut bean, peas, blood meal, fishmeal, e.t.c.
amino acid requirement are influenced mostly by age and weight of the pig. In a daily basis
the requirement increase as the pig increases weight.
Table3.2 The essential amino-acids for pigs, and the amount of essential amino-
acids in the ‘ideal’ protein for growing pigs
Essential amino-acids Amounts of ideal requirement for

growing pigs (g/kg protein)
Lysine 70
Methionine and cystine 35
Threonine 42
Tryptophan 10
Isoleucine 38
Leucine 70
Histidine 23
Phenylalanine and tyrosine 67
Valine 49
(Source: ARC, 1981)
3.2.4 Minerals
Compared with energy and protein, minerals are required in very small amount. Thirteen
minerals are required in the diet. Major minerals includes calcium, phosphorus, sodium,
magnesium, choline and the trace minerals includes iron, iodine and selenium. The two
minerals required in the greatest amount by swine are calcium and phosphorus. Adequate
levels of both calcium and phosphorus must be included in the diet for strong skeletal
structure.
3.2.5 Vitamins
Vitamins can be defined as organic compounds which function in small amounts (mg or µg)
and are essential to the normal functioning of the animal body. They cannot be synthesized in
adequate amounts by body tissues and when lacking, provoke deficiency diseases.
Fourteen vitamins are required by swine, all in very small amounts. Fat soluble vitamins are
A D E and K. while water soluble vitamins are vitamin C and B complex, Riboflavin,
Pantotheic acid, Niacin, Vitamin B12, Choline, Pyridoxine, Thiamin, Folic acid and Biotin.
Cereal, grains and plant protein supplements are very poor sources of many of the vitamins.
From a practical stand point, vitamin premix should be added to swine feed.
3.3 Feeding
The three swine feed usually available commercially are:
a) Creep feed-16% protein
b) Sow and Weaner meal 14% and
c) Swine finishing meal 12% for fattening of swine for pork and bacon.
Minerals are very important and ratio must contain some limestone, bone meal and common
salt. A sudden change in feed stuff upset swine and prevent them from gaining weight.
Changes in feed stuff should be made as gradually as possible over a period of a week or
more.
Table 3.4: Approximate daily food allowances for different classes of pigs
Boars 3 kg sow and weaner meal (less if getting too fat)
Dry sows 2.0-2.5 kg
Farrowed sow: 1 kg plus 0.5 kg for each piglet.
Fattening pigs
8 weeks 1.0 kg
10 weeks 1.25 kg
12 weeks 1.50 kg
14 weeks 1.75 kg
16 weeks 2.0 kg
18 weeks 2.50 kg
20 weeks 2.50 kg
22 weeks 275 kg
24 weeks 3.0 kg
26 weeks 3.0 kg
28 weeks 3.0 kg
3.4 Anti-nutritional factors

In the tropics, plant proteins are by far the most common source of protein for pigs and a
number of these are associated with anti-nutritional factors. These can be in the form of
toxins or other substances which interfere with digestion and utilization, and it is essential
that these factors are taken into account when formulating rations. Example is soybean
which contain a trypsin inhibitor. This inhibits the action of trypsin in the pig’s gut and can
reduce the digestibility of protein so that only 30 percent of it will be digested.

1a) What are anti-nutritional factors?
b) Explain their effects using suitable examples.
c) Using suitable examples discuss essential amino acids in the pig
4.0 Conclusion
Nutrition and feeding management are very important aspect of swine production.
Knowledge of the nutrient requirement of swine during each phase of their life cycle is
extremely important and swine are affected by poor feeding. The major groups of essential
nutrients for pigs are energy, protein, minerals, vitamins and water.
5.0 Summary
• Swine dose not have a rumen. The fibrous component of the diet are not utilize as
efficiently as in ruminant animals. pigs are also dependent upon certain essential amino
acids present in dietary protein from which they build their own body protein unlike the
ruminant animal, swine cannot synthesis the essential amino acids from poor quality
protein or from non-protein nitrogen sources.
• Digestion has been defined simply as the preparation of food for absorption. It may
include mechanical forces such as chewing or mastication, muscular contraction of the
GIT.
• The three swine feed usually available commercially are: Creep feed-16% protein, Sow
and Weaner meal 14% and Swine finishing meal 12% for fattening of swine for pork and
bacon.

1a) With the aid of a diagram discuss the anatomy and physiology of the gastrointestinal
tract (G.I.T) of the pig and explain how nutrient utilization is accomplished.
b) Briefly describe the requirement of different classes of pigs for the following nutrients,
i) Water
ii) Energy
iii) Protein
iv) minerals
v) Vitamins

Macmillan
McDonald, P., Edward, R.A., Greenhalgh, J.F.D. and Morgan,C.A. (1998) Animal Nutrition
5th edition.
tropics.

Pig Management
1.0 Introduction…………………………………………………………………. 162
2.0 Objectives………………………………………………………………….. 162
3.0 Main Content……………………………………………………………… 162
3.1 Management considerations………………………………………………. 162
3.1.1 Stockman ship…………………………………………………………….. 162
3.1.2 Handling and restraint…………………………………………………….. 162
3.1.3 Hygiene…………………………………………………………………… 164
3.2 Management of breeding stock…………………………………………….. 164
3.2.1 Selecting boar for service………………………………………………….. 164
3.2.2 Mating conditions…………………………………………………………. 164
3.2.3 Frequency of use and boar-to-sow ratio…………………………………… 165
3.3 Management of Gilts/ Sows………………………………………………. 165
3.3.1 Pigs breeding cycle………………………………………………………… 165
3.3.2 Recommended practices…………………………………………………… 166
3.3.3 Preparation for farrowing …………………………………………………. 166
3.4 Management of piglets…………………………………………………….. 167
3.4.1 Creep feeding……………………………………………………………… 167
3.4.2 Provision of iron …………………………………………………………. 167
3.5 Management of Weaners………………………………………………….. 168
3.6 Management of Growing and finishing pigs……………………………….. 168
3.7 Culling of sows…………………………………………………………….. 169
4.0 Conclusion…………………………………………………………………. 169
5.0 Summary…………………………………………………………………… 169
6.0 Tutor marked assignment…………………………………………………. 170
7.0 References and Further reading …………………………………………. 170
1.0 Introduction
Good management of pigs on the farm is essential towards the profitability of the herd. The
farmer must work hard to ensure that the well-being and productivity of his animals are
realized. Considering the huge investment involve high degree of attention to all aspect of
management must be followed to ensure success.
2.0 Objectives

a) Acquire knowledge and understanding of the management practices of different age
groups of pigs (Breeding stock, Piglets, Weaners, Growing and finishing pigs).
b) Take part in the supervision of health status of a flock, with a view of
Preventing and controlling most diseases.
c) Raise birds from day old to table weight (Broilers) and or point of lay (Layers) as
the case may be.
d) Better understand the nutritional requirement and approximate daily feed
intake of different classes of pigs (Day-old, Growers, Layers, Broilers etc)
3.0 Main Content
3.1 Management considerations

3.1.1 Stockman ship
This refers to the relationship between the farmer and his pigs. The farmer should be friendly
to his pigs and vigilant for any irregularities arising from them. He should be able to pick any
abnormality and act promptly to intervene as appropriately as possible. Where there is need
for veterinary assistance he should consult a veterinarian for help or advice.
3.1.2 Handling and restraint

The necessity of restraint arises because, unfortunately, all the animals do not reciprocate
your love for them. Handling of animals is a major concern to the livestock industry,
especially handling of domesticated animals like pigs for routine management activities.
Large domesticated animals have to be handled with respect to their size, and this applies
particularly when they are sick. Such animals may attack from a sense of frustration. Pigs
should be handled by the ears or by the hind legs above the hock. A twitch may be applied
over the upper jaw behind the tusk and twist for the purpose of restraint. A pig-catcher which
has a loop, the size of which can be altered by means of a ratchet on the made wide and
slipped over the snout, large pigs can also be handle by use f a pignet. Small pigs can be
caught by the hind leg seized above the neck or by the ears.
Tethering
Securing for veterinary treatment
Guiding pig forward with solid boarders
holding for c castration
Fig4.1 Handling pigs

Source: Livestock rearing in the tropics by I. McDonald and J.
Low page 83
3.1.3 Hygiene
This is one of the important aspect of pig farming to prevent infection and ensure success
and profitability.
Animals should be fed properly and adequate amount of clean water given. Prevent food and
water from contamination by animal faeces. Isolate sick animals to prevent spread of
infection. Maintain safe environment by preventing pollution, keep animals in dry clean
places through periodic emptying and resting of each house. For the farrowing house, this
should consist of a week’s rest in between each batch of farrowing sows. For fattening pens, a
five-day break after each group of fatteners is adequate. Immediately after it is empty, each
pen should be thoroughly scrubbed and cleaned, washed and soaked in disinfectant and
allowed to remain dry for the remainder of the period that is empty. Avoid stressing pigs
through unnecessary handling and movements. Animals get infection and suffer more from
diseases when they are stressed.
3.2 Management of breeding stock

3.2.1 Selecting boar for service
Boars are selected following performance testing to ensure efficient performance of their
offspring. This include
1) Faster growth rate than average
2) Has less back fat than average
3) Has eaten less food than average
4) It has utilized its feed more efficiently as a result of producing less fat.
5) Must have two equally sized and firmly suspended testicles and with good sexual libido
6) Has good conformation, strong straight feet and good temperament.
Young boars that are newly brought to the herd must be given care to be able to adapt to
their new environment. They should be dewormed, sprayed/dipped against ecto- parasites and
exercised daily to allow him get used to his stock man as well as the sights and smells of the
piggery. The boar should be fed t provide for continued growth, but should not be allowed to
become fat and sluggish.
3.2.2 Mating conditions

Recent studies has indicated that where boars mating on their own pens displayed lower
levels of sexual behaviour than boars mating in the service pen. This resulted in a lower
percentage of gilts being mated in the boar pen. This has necessitated the used of a
specifically designed service pen.
3.2.3 Frequency of use and boar-to-sow ratio

A boar should not start serving until he is over eight months of age; and during the first two
months of service, only twice per week. Subsequently, he can be used for up to six services
per week. Overworking a boar will reduce the quality f the sperm produced, leading to small
litters and increased number of sows returning to service. The standard recommendation is
one boar to 20 sows and gilts. The first service after a rest period should not be counted as the
semen may not be fertile. Considerable exercise is necessary to prevent the development of
leg weakness. It may be necessary to trim the boars feet regularly.
3.3 Management of Gilts/ Sows

The major objective of gilt- management should be to induce all replacement gilts to reach
puberty as soon as possible after selection. This will allow the following objectives to be
achieved:
1. Disposing of gilts which are not showing any breeding activity at an early stage.
2. Access to a pool of young, sexually-active gilts;
3. Gilts will be in their second heat or more at first mating there by increasing the first litter
–size.
Gilts and sows will tend to get too fat if they are not allowed enough exercise. A fat sow
takes longer to come on heat and is more likely to crush her young piglets. Sexual maturity
occurs as early as 4 or 5 months, but the first service should not be until 8 months, when the
weight should be 10-130 kg. A sow has a productive life of four to five years.
3.3.1 Pigs breeding cycle
Pigs like other animals will mate only when the female is on heat or during oestrus period.
This are physiological changes that takes place in the female which allow ovulation or
shading of the egg for fertilization to take place in the presence of the
males sperms.
The normal heat period lasts for three to five days; signs of heat are:
First stage
• General restlessness
• Vulva turns red and swollen
• White mucus discharge
Second stage
• Real heat lasts for 40-60 hours
• Vulva less red and swollen, slimy mucous discharge
• Tendency to mount and be mounted
• Sow or gilt will stand still when pressure is applied to her back
• She is ready for service, this is the right stage to send her to the boar
Third stage
• After the heat, the sow will stand still when pressure is applied to her back,
• The swelling of the vulva disappears
3.3.2 Recommended practices

It is important to note that few of the signs above will be seen therefore it is best to put the
sow with the boar for a short period every day when the heat is expected.
Always take the sow to the boar not the reverse, this is less upsetting for him. It is best to put
them together just before feeding. Let the boar serve her twice, with an interval of about 12
hours between services. If the sow does not conceive, she will return on heat in about 3
weeks time. The gestation period is 114 days (3 months,
3 weeks, 3 days). Pregnant sows should not be too crowded in their pens as this can cause
abortion.
A week before service, give the sow/gilt 1 kg of feed extra per day (standard is 2.5 kg/day).
Continue this for one week after service. During the last month of pregnancy give 0.5-1 kg
extra feed per day, but decrease this gradually one week before farrowing, and provide plenty
of water to help prevent congested gut during farrowing.
3.3.3 Preparation for farrowing

1. The farrowing pen should be dry clean and free form draughts.
2. Clean and disinfect the farrowing pen thoroughly and scrub into the crevices with
insecticides to control mange and lice ten days before the commencement of farrowing .
3. Deworm the sow with dewormers that are not contraindicated during pregnancy two
weeks before the expected farrowing.
4. The sow should be moved to the farrowing pen 4-7 days before farrowing ad her body
should be wash with soapy water and weak disinfectant to remove dirt and parasite eggs.
5. Provide plenty of straw, chopped into short lengths of say 10 cm to prevent the piglets
being trapped in longer straw and being crushed by their mother. The first 3 days of life
are the most critical for the piglets.
6. One day before farrowing the sow becomes restless and later milk can be squeezed out of
the teats. She will begin to make a nest with straw.
7. Use a well designed farrowing pen for example farrowing crate to prevent the sow from
accidentally crushing the piglets.

Your tutor should organize a visit to a nearby pig farm where you will have the opportunity
to enrich yourself with the practical knowledge of pig management and you will be able to:
1a) Describe the stages in the signs of heat in a sow/gilt and comment on the
recommended practices during heat period.
b) Enumerate on the common preparations before farrowing
During farrowing the sow/gilt will lie down and grunt. It will be lifting her hind legs as
labour pains increases. Generally pigs have little difficulty farrowing and will farrow with
little interference from the attendant. Farrowing normally takes 4 to 6 hours but some sows
will take up to 18 hours or more.
When a piglet is born it will severe the naval cord and then walks round the sows hind legs to
find the teats and within 45 minutes start suckling it’s first colostrum.
The after birth (placenta) will either come out as the last piglet is born or immediately after
that. The placenta need t be buried as soon as possible to prevent the sow/gilt from eating it,
as this may open her appetite for her own piglets.
3.4 Management of piglets

The piglet is born with very limited supplies of energy. This is further complicated by the
stresses of the birth process. The piglet is born with thin skin and short hair. Thus it is less
protected against extremes of temperature and humidity. In cold weather a small area can be
heated with 50 watt electric light bulb hung 30-40 cm above the piglets, kerosene lamp, or
stove. They should also be provided with warmth in the form of beddings made up of wood
shavings or hay. In humid areas they should be put in a well ventilated pen. Farmers should
make sure their piglets has taken colostrums ‘the first milk’ which is rich in various nutrients
and antibodies except iron and copper.
3.4.1 Creep feeding

Young piglets from 10 days onwards should have a high protein diet available to them. They
has to be fed in small creep r area where the mother cannot eat the feed. The feed conversion
rate of young piglets is very high thus creep feeding is particularly economic.
Creep feeding is very important as the piglets become used to feeding on meal at an early
age; the sows milk also begin to decrease just as the piglets require more feed.
3.4.2 Provision of iron

It is necessary for piglets to be given iron this can be in the form of an injection of 2ml iron
dextran, or as pills or in their creep feed or swab the sow’s teats with an appropriate solution
that contains iron or copper, like ferrous sulphate, or administer in water daily, for the first
five days of life.
Piglet needle teeth should be clipped off with a pair of clippers to prevent them from
wounding their sows teat which might make her refuse them suckling. If piglets are reared on
a concrete floor, provide clean soil or earth (sod) which is of up-rooted grass with both roots
and earth intact at a corner of the pen as a source of iron and copper.
By observing good management and sanitary practices as mentioned above the piglets will
double their birth weights within 5-8 days. At weaning i.e. between 4-6 weeks of age they
should weigh 10-12 times more than their birth weight. Growth rates in large litters are
usually less uniform than smaller ones. Bigger piglets usually prefer the better front teats and
so gain more weight and faster than the rest. Piglets usually stick to teats they started with.
3.5 Management of Weaners

Weaning is the separation of young piglet from it’s mother with the aim of stopping them
from suckling milk. This could take place between 4 to 6 weeks of their life. At this age, the
piglets will eat feeds and fend for themselves.
When changing to weaners ration, for the first few days, some quantity of creep feed is to be
mixed in the ration, and then gradually reduced until only the weaners ration is now fed.
Early weaning at 3 weeks is possible but requires intensive management and extra care and
expensive equipment.
To minimize stress to the piglets, do the following:
• Remove the sow but leave the piglets in the pen as this lessens the stress to the young
piglets.
• If the litter is more than 10 piglets, those that are relatively bigger and heavier should be
removed a little earlier, not more than 4 to 5 of them removed while the rest should be
allowed on the sow for about 6 days more. This will increase the weight of the smaller
piglets
• Stocking density at weaning should be high to promote warmth but should not be over
crowded as they will struggle and fight for feed causing reduction in growth rate and
reduction in weight gain of the weaker ones.
• After one week, deworm the piglets and move them to the fattening pen. The sow will
come on heat again 2 to 7 days after weaning.
3.6 Management of Growing and finishing pigs
By the 8-9 weeks of age the growing pig is over the stress of weaning, and its digestive
system will be competent to deal with a range of protein and energy sources, some 80% of
the food used in a pig unit is consumed by the growing and finishing pigs, therefore the
efficiency of food utilization during this phase is crucial factor affecting profitability.
The management system which is adapted must relate to the specific objectives of each unit
and these may range from home consumption of a cheap a carcass as possible to the
production of sophisticated bacon products. These considerations dictate the type of pig to be
produced. Feeding and management must be geared to optimize performance. The small scale
rural producer, for example, will attempt to maximized the use of cheaper, lower quality
feedstuffs. It must be remembered however, that the growing pig has only a limited ability to
digest and utilize fibre in the diet and too much bulky food may depress growth to such an
extent as to render its inclusion uneconomic. Under commercial conditions different priorities
may be given to factors such as food-conversion efficiency and food cost per pig growth rate,
carcass leanness and grading according to the relative economic advantages they confer in the
whole production unit.
3.7 Culling of Sows

To maintain overall productivity in the herd, it is important to have a culling policy so that
sows removed at the correct time. The reasons for culling include;
Lameness, other injury, farrowing problems, poor litter-size, poor mothering ability, and low
fertility. For a sow that regularly produces a good litter will eventually start to decline with
age, probably around her tenth litter if she is producing well, a god guide is to allow her to
remain in the herd until her performance falls below the average of the gilts in the herd. At
the same time it is important to have a supply of pregnant gilts available t replace sows that
need to be culled.
4.0 Conclusion
Proper management of each class of pigs on the farm is essential towards the profitability of
the herd. The farmer must make every effort to ensure that the well-being and productivity of
his animals are achieved.
5.0 Summary
• Consideration for management of pigs includes a) stockman ship this refers to the
relationship between the farmer and his pigs. b) Handling and restraint: The necessity of
restraint arises because, unfortunately, all the animals do not reciprocate your love for
them. c) Hygiene:
• This is one of the important aspect of pig farming to prevent infection and ensure success
and profitability.
• Boars are selected following performance testing to ensure efficient performance of their
offspring. This include, faster growth rate than average with less back fat than average, It
has utilized its feed more efficiently as a result of producing less fat, must have two
equally sized and firmly suspended testicles and with good sexual libido also good
conformation, strong straight feet and good temperament.
• A boar should not start serving until he is over eight months of age; and during the first
two months of service, only twice per week. Subsequently, he can be used for up to six
services per week. Overworking a boar will reduce the quality f the sperm produced,
leading to small litters and increased number of sows returning to service. The standard
recommendation is one boar to 20 sows and gilts.
• Piglets should be provided with warmth in the form of beddings made up of wood
shavings or hay. In humid areas they should be put in a well ventilated pen. Farmers
should make sure their piglets have taken colostrums ‘the first milk’ which is rich in
various nutrients and antibodies except iron and copper. Young piglets from 10 days
onwards should have a high protein diet available to them. This has to be fed in small
creep (creep feeding) or area where the mother cannot eat the feed.
• Weaning is the separation of young piglet from its mother with the aim of stopping them
from suckling milk. This could take place between 4 to 6 weeks of their life. At this age,
the piglets will eat feeds and fend for themselves.
• By the 8-9 weeks of age the growing pig is over the stress of weaning, and its digestive
system will be competent to deal with a range of protein and energy sources some 80% of
the food used in a pig unit is consumed by the growing and finishing pigs, therefore the
efficiency of food utilization during this phase is crucial factor affecting profitability.
1a) Discuss pig management considerations under the following:

i) Stockman ship
ii) Handling and restraint
iii) Hygiene
b) List the criteria used in selecting boar for breeding and explain the care needed
for young boars before their first service.
c) What are the main objectives in sow/gilt management?
d) Explain in detail how to manage a piglet highlighting creep feeding, provision of
iron etc.

Macmillan
tropics.

Pig Management
1.0 Introduction……………………………………………………………… 172
2.0 Objectives……………………………………………………………… 172
3.0 Main Content…………………………………………………………… 172
3.1 Parasites…………………………………………………………………. 172
3.1.1 External parasites………………………………………………………… 172
3.1.2 Endo parasites of pigs…………………………………………………… 174
3.2 Infectious diseases………………………………………………………… 176
3.3 Non Infectious diseases…………………………………………………… 178
4.0 Conclusion……………………………………………………………….. 178
5.0 Summary…………………………………………………………………. 179
6.0 Tutor Marked Assignment……………………………………………….. 179
7.0 References and Further readings…………………………………………. 179

1.0 Introduction
Once disease affects a pig herd the impact on the economics of pig production in terms of
the cost of control and decreased productivity can be enormous. The first priority must
therefore always be to try to prevent the occurrence of disease. Thus many of the
management procedures are aimed at disease prevention or at mitigating the effects of those
diseases that cannot be prevented. With skilled management, combined with well-designed
housing and sound nutrition, an overall strategy to minimize the possibility of disease attack
can be formulated.
2.0 Objectives

a) Know the meaning of parasites their causative agents, mode of transmission, signs,
and control measures of swine parasites.
b) Understand the common bacterial and viral diseases of swine, their causative agents,
mode of transmission, signs, and control measures
c) Give examples of non specific diseases of swine.
3.0 Main Content
3.1 Parasites
Parasites are defined as organisms which live on and obtain food from the body of another,
known as the host. They may live on the exterior of the pig, when they are known as external
parasites, or within the internal tissues and organs when they are known as internal parasites.
Parasites will seldom result in the death of the host except in the case of massive infestations
or if the host is also stressed in other ways.
3.1.1 External parasites
These mainly cause irritation to the skin surface, often leading to wounds and an increased
susceptibility to other infections. The most common external parasites are mange-mites, ticks,
lice, fleas and flies.
Table 5.1 showing some ectoparastes of pigs
Name Means of causative Signs control

Transmission Organism
1)Mange- Direct contact Sarcoptes Crusty, dry looking Regular treatment
mites scabiei skin around the eyes, either dipping or
ears & snout, skin is spraying with anti
swollen & inflamed pig mange medication.
constantly rubbing Spraying of pens.
itself & performance Chronic cases to
depressed. be culled.
Transmit Babesiosis, By spraying and

Tick bite require and other tick borne dipping with
more than one diseases. (fever, suitable acaricides
2) Ticks host to complete Tick spp emaciation depressed
life cycle Lice and performance etc.
3) Lice Direct contact fleas Spraying of pigs
and fleas species Irritation, anaemia and pig quarters
with suitable
insecticides
3.1.2 Endo parasites of pigs
Table 5.2 shows some endoparasites of pigs
Name and Means of Causative Signs Control

features transmission agent
Larvae migrate By breaking the life

1) Round Ingestion of Ascaris
worms Contaminated lumbricides through liver & lung. cycle i.e. regularly
Live in the feed and water
Irritation in lungs moving range pigs on
small by
causes coughing & to fresh grounds.
intestines infected eggs
can grow up from dung of ill-thrift in young Frequent removal of
to 300 mm infected pig
pigs. Liver damage faeces in housed pigs.
long and 6
can lead to Breeding pigs should
mm thick.
Capable of condemnation at be routinely dosed with
laying
slaughter. Heavy broad spectrum
thousands
infection can lead to anthelminthics and
of eggs per
day obstruction of young stock dosed
Small intestines, after weaning.
weakness, weight
loss
Name and Means of Causative Signs Control

features transmission agent
2) Tapeworms Ingestion of Taena solium Lavae encyst in By preventing

Pig is the Contaminated
the pig’s pigs access to
feed and water
intermediate
muscle human faeces.
by
host and the
infected eggs particularly the Regular
adult worm live from dung of
heart and deworming is
infected
in man
tongue. Pork helpful.
humans
meat are
condemned at
slaughter
3.2 Infectious diseases
Table 5.3 infectious diseases of pig
Name Mode of trans General character Preventive measures
mission
1) Africa By direct and Loss of appetite, pigs Prevent direct contact
swine fever indirect hurdling together, small between domestic and wild
(ASF) is a contact, purplish blotches on the pigs. No vaccine, no
viral infection inhalation, skin, in coordination and treatment.
There was an ingestion ticks laboured breathing. Strict prevention of
epidemic in at as vectors. movement of pigs, personal
Nigeria in Feeding and vehicles between pig
1999--2000 infected un farms.
boiled swill, Do not feed pigs with
carrier animals, uncooked garbage from hotel
contaminated this may contain the virus. In
vehicles e.t.c. case of outbreak of ASF ,
are very bury or burn the carcasses,
important in disinfect house with strong
transmission disinfectants. Rest the house
for three months.

Name Mode of trans General character Preventive
mission measures
2) Foot-and mouth The virus is carried Causes blisters on There is no cure. If
disease by buffalo. Infection the feet, snout, outbreak occurs in
Most contagious of can occur by udder and the nearby farms, pigs
all known viral feeding infected mouth. Is painful to can be vaccinated.
diseases. bones or cooked the pig, which vaccinate with the
meat. cannot eat and often right virus
has to be destroyed.
3) Erysipelas By animal contact Stages are acute, Treatment is
Is caused by a or is picked up from sub acute and effective with right
bacterium that lies the soil. chronic. Acute form antibiotics and
in the soil sudden death is should be timely.
common, marked Excellent vaccines
constipation, are available.
reddish/purplish Routine vaccination
discoloration of the programme is
ears, abdomen and recommended to
legs. Chronic form prevent infection.
can lead to chronic
arthritis, swollen
joints and stiffness
and heart damage.

Name Mode of trans General character Preventive
mission measures
4) Anthrax By contact with Two main types of There is effective
Is an acute, and anthrax carcasses or signs exist. vaccine against the
often fatal bacterial by spores in A swelling in the disease
disease which often contaminated food back region which If the disease is
cause mortality in or pasture. causes difficulty in suspected carcass
humans. breathing or sudden should not be open
death with blood as this releases
oozing from the infective spores.
body orifices Infected carcass
should be buried at
sufficient depth to
prevent transmission
of the spores.
3.3 Non -specific diseases
These include abscesses, gastric ulcers, intestinal haemorrhage syndrome

1a) What are parasites?
b) Give 3 examples of ecto and endo parasites of pigs.
4.0 Conclusion
The impact of a disease in a pig herd, in terms of the cost of control and decreased
productivity can be enormous, the first priority must therefore always be to try to prevent the
occurrence of disease. Thus many of the management procedures are aimed at disease
prevention or at mitigating the effects of those diseases that cannot be prevented.
5.0 Summary
• Parasites are defined as organisms which live on and obtain food from the body of
another, known as the host. They may live on the exterior of the pig, when they are
known as external parasites (ecto parasites) or within the internal tissues and organs when
they are known as internal parasites (endo parasites). Parasites will seldom result in the
death of the host except in the case of massive infestations or if the host is also stressed in
other ways.
• Examples of ecto-parasites include mange-mites, ticks, lice, fleas and flies.
While examples of endo parasites include round worms and tape worms.
Examples of infectious diseases of viral origin include African swine fever and
Foot-and mouth disease. Examples of infectious diseases of bacterial origin include
Swine erysipelas and Anthrax disease. Examples of non infectious diseases include
Abscesses and Gastric ulcers.

1) Discuss Mange-mites, Round worms, African swine fever, Swine erysipelas
under the following headings:
i) Causative agent and Mode of transmission
ii) General character and signs
iii) Control and prevention

Macmillan
tropics.

Pig Management
1.0 Introduction………………………………………………………………. 181
2.0 Objectives………………………………………………………………… 181
3.0 Main Content…………………………………………………………….. 181
3.1 Transport…………………………………………………………………. 181
3.2 Lairage…………………………………………………………………… 182
3.3 Slaughter procedure…………………………………………………….. 182
3.3.1 Bleeding…………………………………………………………………. 182
3.3.2 Scalding and de-hairing…………………………………………………. 182
3.3.3 Evisceration………………………………………………………………. 182
3.3.4 Meat hygiene…………………………………………………………….. 183
3.4 Marketing ………………………………………………………………. 183
3.5 Uses of pig meat……………………………………………………… 183
4.0 Conclusion……………………………………………………………… 184
5.0 Summary………………………………………………………………… 184
6.0 Tutor marked Assignment………………………………………………. 185
7.0 References and Further readings……………………………………….. 185

1.0 Introduction
Pig processing start by transporting them to the slaughter house. The method, by which they
are restrained, transported and the stress to which they are subjected becomes very important.
The final phase of pig production is the sale and disposal of the end product. The pig is
extremely versatile in terms of the number of product which can b derived from pig meat.
The main categories are: Fresh meat, Cured products, Other processed products, Lard (pig
fat), Pig skin, Bristles, Intestines, Offals, Blood, Slaughterhouse by-products and Hoofs.
2.0 Objectives
a) To know the most effective and reliable measures of transporting animals for
Processing.
b) Be familiar with the needs to protect the animals in the lairage to ensure profits after
slaughter.
c) To be aware of the different methods used in slaughtering pigs and other protocols
including ; slaughter procedure, Bleeding , scalding and de-hairing, evisceration and
meat hygiene.
d) Understand the systems of marketing pigs used by small scale and large scale
producers
e) To know the different uses of pig meat employed by the consumer.
3.0 Main Content
3.1 Transport
The stress of transporting pigs to the slaughterhouse can result in pigs dying in transit, dying
in lairage at the slaughterhouse, or reduced meat quality in the carcass. The stresses which
confront the pig are the handling at loading and unloading, the new surroundings, mixing
with strange pigs, the physical discomfort of the journey, and most importantly under tropical
conditions, heat stress.
Measures taken to minimize these stress include:
1. Ensure that the loading ramp is properly designed with solid walls and is at the correct
height for the cart, truck or trailer.
2. Handle the pigs quietly and gently at all times. Avoid the use of sticks and prodders.
3. Do not feed pigs for 12 hours before loading.
4. Avoid loading and traveling during the heat of the day.
5. Spray the pigs with cold water before loading and again in the truck.
6. Provide cover on the truck, good ventilation, adequate bedding and ensure the floors are
not slippery. Make sure the sides of the truck are high enough to prevent the pigs jumping
out. If possible, subdivide animals into groups of 10 or fewer, and never mix pigs of
different weight.
7. Do not stop en route to the slaughterhouse.
3.2 Lairage
It is important to penned the pigs waiting to be slaughtered under shade and in small groups
and sprayed with water, and feed only if there are long delays before slaughter. Pigs should
be handled and driven quietly and gently at all times and supervised to prevent fighting. As
far as possible, avoid fear, they should be penned away from the sights and smells of the
slaughtering process. All the potential profits which have been achieved during the growing
period can be nullified by deaths or damage at this stage.
3.3 Slaughter procedure
For reasons of animal welfare, pigs should always be stunned before they are bled. Effective
stunning ensures prompt and more complete bleeding and also minimizes Intensive muscle
contraction. The main methods of stunning are:
• Mechanical - A captive-bold pistol or other implement is used to stunned the animal.
• Electrical - A pair o tongs is used to apply an electrical charge to the pig’s head.
A current of 1.25 amps and 300 to 600 volts renders the pig unconscious within one
second.
• Gas - pigs can be led into a tunnel containing 70 to 80 percent carbon dioxide, when they
will lose consciousness within two seconds.
3.3.1 Bleeding
Immediately after stunning the animal should be suspended by it hind legs and the blood
vessels of the neck completely severed to ensure thorough and complete bleeding. The blood
should be collected in clean vessels.
3.3.2 Scalding and de-hairing

By immersing the carcass in water at 65 to 75◦C, the hair is loose and can be removed by
scraping. Any excess hair can be burn of by a flame.
For small scale farmers who are slaughtering on the farm, a drum of water over fire is
adequate for scalding purposes. Or alternatively were water is scarce, and if the skins are not
used, de-hairing can be achieved by covering the carcass with a 5cm deep layer of straw or
dry grass and burning it. The skin can then be scraped to remove the carbonized surface and
any remaining hair.
3.3.3 Evisceration
A long cut is made down the belly from the breast to the hams. To prevent the meat being
contaminated, the entire length of the gut should be removed intact. Other internal organs can
be separated, and the gut emptied and cleaned away from the rest of the meat.
3.3.4 Meat hygiene
The freshly killed carcass is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and hygienic conditions are
of paramount importance to prevent infections. Ideally carcass should be chilled immediately
after slaughter, and the meat should remain chilled until it is cooked. Where refrigerator is
not available, carcasses should be hung in a cool room, protected from flies by gauze, and
then sold and eaten as soon as possible.
At any slaughterhouse, all carcasses should be examined by a qualified meat inspector. He
examined the carcass and offal critically for signs of parasites infections (e.g. measly pork,
‘milk-spot’ livers, damaged lungs, e.t.c.). Meat that does not pass inspection is condemned
and should be burnt. The carcass slaughtered from pigs on the farm should also be examined
critically so that the transmission of disease and parasites from pigs to humans can be
avoided.
3.4 Marketing
The main systems of marketing pigs are:

Private sales This is the most common method in the tropics among small scale producers.
One, or a number of pigs are sold to local consumers, other producers , butchers or
middlemen. The pigs are sold live and the price is generally subject to negotiation this system
has the advantage of being the simplest, but in rural areas individuals who are not aware of
current prices can be taken advantage of by speculators and dealers. Due to this problem,
marketing co-operative have bee formed in some rural areas to ensure adequate prices for
producer members.
Public sales This involve taking the pigs to a central market place, where they are sold by
auction on a live basis to the highest bidder.
Direct sale to an abattoir or butcher This is more applicable to a larger- scale producer. The
big disadvantage of direct sales is the effect of the ‘pig cycle’. This is the notorious
fluctuation in price which occurs in most countries. When pigs are in short supply, prices rise,
but this in turn stimulates increased production among producers, and consequently prices
fall. As it takes approximately a year for a producer to react to price changes, the cycle will
occur every 12 to 18 months. This leads to lack of stability with producers going in and out
of pig production.
Contact sales By entering into a contract with an abattoir to supply a certain number of pigs
over a period at a set price, the producer is largely protected from the effects of the pig cycle.
In turn, this allows him to plan his production output over a longer time.
3.5 Uses of pig meat
Pig meats are marketed in the form of:

Fresh meat - This is the most important product in the tropics in general, as processing
facilities are limited. Pig destined for the fresh meat trade are usually slaughtered at younger
ages and lower weights (porkers) than those used for processing. If sold in the commercial
markets, the carcass can be butchered into a number of whole sale cuts which can be cooked
and eaten in a number of different ways.
Cured products - These include the various bacons and hams which are curd in brine and can
also be flavoured by hanging in smoke to increase the shelf life of the product compared
with fresh meat. Bacon and ham are derived from the baconer category of pig, which is
heavier than the porker.
Other processed products- Included in this category are all the various types of sausages, pies,
luncheon, meats, hamburgers and mat pastes. These tend to be produced from the lower value
of the porker and baconer carcasses, or mature sows and boars.
Lard (pig fat) – This is sold as a separate product for human feed, animal feed or soap
production.
Pig skin – Pig skin can be made into valuable leather.
Bristles - These can be used for brushes and are in special demand for shaving and paint
brushes.
Intestines – Is used for sausage casings.
Offals - These are all edible ad the liver in particular is delicacy.
Blood – This is collected separately and processed into sausages and other delicacies for
those who consumed it.
Slaughterhouse by-products – Bones, blood and inedible meat tissue is converted into animal
feeds.
Hoofs – These are used for gelatin and glue products.
1a) Describe the uses of pig meat.

b) Explain the negative role played by speculators and dealers in marketing pigs.
4.0 Conclusion
The final phase of pig production is the sale and disposal of the end product. The pig is
extremely versatile in terms of the number of product which can b derived from pig meat.
5.0 Summary
• The stress of transporting pigs to the slaughterhouse can result in pigs dying in transit,
dying in lairage at the slaughterhouse, or reduced meat quality in the carcass.
• Measures taken to minimize stress transit include: Ensuring that the loading ramp is
properly designed with solid walls and is at the correct height for the cart, truck or trailer,
the pigs must be handled quietly and gently at all times.
• While inside the lairage, it is important to penned the pigs waiting to be slaughtered under
shade and in small groups and sprayed with water, and feed only if there are long delays
before slaughter.
• Immediately after stunning the animal should be suspended by it hind legs, and the blood
vessels of the neck completely severed to ensure thorough and complete bleeding.
• By immersing the carcass in water at 65 to 75ºC, the hair is loose and can e removed by
scraping. Any excess hair can be burnt of by a flame.
• The main systems of marketing pigs are: Private sales, Public sales, direct sale to an
abattoir or butcher , Contact sales.
• Pig meat are marketed in the form of : Fresh meat, Cured products, Other processed
products- Included in this category are all the various types of sausages, pies, luncheon,
meats, hamburgers and mat pastes. These tend to be produced from the lower value of the
porker and beckoner carcasses, or mature sows and boars. Lard (pig fat), Pig skin,
Bristles, Intestines, Offal, Blood, Slaughterhouse by-products, Hoofs.
1a) Explain the measures taken to minimize transport stress in pigs.

b) What is the acceptable practices in a lairage?
c) List the main method of stunning pigs before slaughter.
d) Discuss the main systems of marketing pigs.

Macmillan

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General Introduction 1

NATIONAL OPEN UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA

SCHOOL OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

COURSE CODE: ANP 301

COURSE TITLE: INTRODUCTION TO NON-RUMINANT ANIMAL PRODUCTION

What you will learn in this course…………………………………………………. ii

Course Objectives…………………………………………………………………… iii

How to get the most from this Course………………………………………… xi

What you will learn in the course

On successful completion of the course you should be able to

Working through This Course

The details of the 3 modules and their content are as follows:

Module 1: Poultry Management

Module 2 Rabbit Management

Module 3 Pig Management

Module 1 Poultry Management (7 units)

Module 2 Rabbit Management ( 7 Units)

Module 3 Pig Management (6 Units)

• Adi, M. A. (1994) Sheep, Goat and Swine production in Nigeria

• McDonald, P.,Edward, R.A., Greenhalgh, J.F.D. and Morgan,C.A. (1998) Animal

Tutor marked assignment

Final examination and grading

Table 1: Course marking scheme

Unit Title of work Weeks Assessment

5 Management of day-old growers, layers 2 Assignment 5

How to get the most from this course

Introduction to Non-Ruminant Animal Management:

Introduction to Non-Ruminant Animal Management:

Introduction to Non-Ruminant Animal Management:

Introduction to Non-Ruminant Animal Management:

Introduction to Non-Ruminant Animal Management:

3.0 Main content

3.1 Management of day old chicks

3.2 Feeding and watering Equipment

3.2.1 Temperature requirement of chicks

3.3 Broiler Management

3.3.1 Signs of a good Broiler

3.4 Management of growers

3.5 Management of layers

3.5.1 Characteristics of good layer

3.6 Calculating Productivity of laying flock

6.0 Tutor Marked assignment

7.0 References and Further readings

Introduction to Non-Ruminant Animal Management:

3.0 Main content

3.1 Disease and Disease Prevention

3.2 Diseases of poultry

3.3 Disease Prevention

3.4 Common Diseases of Chicken

6.0 Tutor Marked Assignment

7.0 References and Further readings

Introduction to Non-Ruminant Animal Management:

3.2 Marketing table birds

Introduction to Non-Ruminant Animal Management:

1.0 Introduction …………………………………………………………………. 9

Introduction to Non - Ruminant Animal Management

3.0 Main Content

3.1 Taxonomy of the domestic fowl

Below is the taxonomy of the domestic chicken: