(a) Explain each of the following terms as used in animal production: (i) flushing: (i) dystocia: (iii) parturition. (b) State five ways in which fencing is...

(a) Terms in animal production

• (i) Flushing: Giving extra or improved feeding (high-energy ration) to breeding females a few weeks before mating in order to raise the ovulation rate and improve conception.
• (ii) Dystocia: Difficult birth; the difficulty an animal experiences when giving birth.
• (iii) Parturition: The act of giving birth, that is the expulsion of the young from the body of the mother.

(b) Five ways fencing is important in livestock production

• It keeps animals within the farm and prevents them from straying.
• It keeps out predators and thieves.
• It allows controlled grazing and paddocking.
• It separates animals of different classes, ages or sexes.
• It helps control breeding and the spread of disease, and marks the farm boundary.

(c) Five ways rearing of rabbits is important

• It is a source of white meat rich in protein.
• It is a source of income.
• Rabbits are prolific and breed rapidly.
• They need little space and small capital to start.
• They provide fur or skin, and their droppings serve as manure.

(d) Four disadvantages of the deep litter system

• Diseases and parasites spread easily through contact with droppings.
• Damp litter releases ammonia which causes respiratory problems.
• Cannibalism and egg eating are common.
• It is difficult to keep records of individual birds and eggs may become dirty.