Livestock records turn daily farm activity into information that can guide management and marketing. The purpose is not to collect paperwork for its own sake, but to answer important questions about performance, costs and returns.

Production records

Record births, deaths, weights, milk or egg output, breeding dates and sales. These figures show which animals, groups or seasons are performing well.

Health records

Keep dates of illness, treatments, vaccination, parasite control and withdrawal periods. Health records support follow-up and can reduce repeated or incorrect treatment.

Feed and expense records

Feed is often a major production cost. Record purchased feed, transport, labour, medicines and other significant expenses to understand the true cost of production.

Marketing records

Document buyer contacts, quantities, grades, dates and prices. Comparing sales over time helps identify stronger markets and seasonal price patterns.

Start simple and remain consistent

A notebook, printed sheet or spreadsheet can be enough. Use a method that the farm can maintain accurately and review the records at regular intervals.