Random Article Summary #32

Livestock are domesticated animals raised in agriculture for various products like meat, eggs, milk, fur, leather, and wool. This term can refer to animals raised for consumption or farmed ruminants like cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs. Horses are also considered livestock in the United States. The USDA classifies certain meats as livestock, but poultry and fish are not included. Livestock farming, called animal husbandry, has been practiced since the transition to farming and continues to play a significant economic and cultural role. However, intensive animal farming has negative impacts on animal welfare, the environment, and public health, especially with beef, dairy, and sheep. The word "livestock" was first used in the 17th century and originally referred to "live" animals that were owned. Today, it is generally used to refer to domesticated bovines, but it can also have a broader meaning. In the United States, the term "livestock" is defined by federal legislation to determine which agricultural commodities are eligible for certain programs. Additionally, there is a distinction between livestock and "deadstock," with the latter referring to animals that have died before being slaughtered. Selling or processing meat from dead animals for human consumption is illegal in many countries. Animal-rearing began when people transitioned from hunting and gathering to settled farming. Livestock have changed a lot over time, to the point where many farmed animals are unable to survive in the wild. Dogs were domesticated early, followed by goats, sheep, pigs, horses, cattle, and poultry. Livestock can be broadly defined as any animals kept by humans for a useful purpose. Micro-livestock refers to small animals like rodents, rabbits, crickets, and honey bees. It does not include fish or chickens.