Important animal terms glossary

A general term for processed feedstuff such as concentrates. e.g. rapeseed cake

Plural calves.  The offspring of a cow. Males are termed bull calves and females heifer calves.

A calf igloo is a shelter for calves and an alternative to a calf pen. A calf hut is usually made of polyethylene or fibreglass-reinforced plastic; it is open at the bottom and has an entrance. An extension in form of a metal fence is usually attached to the open side. The floor of the calf igloo is lined with straw.

A dedicated, hygienic housing area designed for periparturient cows, providing sufficient space for unassisted or assisted parturition while reducing pathogen exposure to the neonate and enabling continuous monitoring of dam and calf.

A type of battery cage housing system for laying hens. Manure from the tiered cages falls down into a canal about 100 cm deep. To dry the manure, air drawn into the building by fans is warmed by passing through the cage area before flowing over the manure in the canals and leaving the house.

Complex, organic compounds containing carbon, hydrogen and oxygen that are essential to all living organisms. The energy stored in carbohydrates is released to power living processes.

A collective term for bovine livestock. Dairy cattle are kept for milk production and beef cattle are reared for meat.

A young bird about to be hatched or newly hatched.

Most important poultry species including laying hens, broilers.

Common cause of young piglet mortality, both indoors and outdoors. Chilled piglets can die of hypothermia and are also more vulnerable to crushing and infection in the first few weeks of life.