Some of the worst feeding mistakes happen when people assume animals can eat anything. But certain scraps, treats, or “natural” foods can wreck their health fast—or even kill them. Moldy Bread or Hay If it smells off, toss it. Mold spores are deadly to goats, cows, and chickens. Even a little mold can cause neurological…
Keeping feed dry, clean, and safe sounds simple, but it’s easier to mess up than most folks think. One slip, and you’re dealing with moldy grain, wasted money, or sick animals. Storing It in the Bag Feed bags aren’t designed for long-term storage—especially in humid areas. They soak up moisture from the ground or air…
If your livestock keeps testing the fence line, breaking through it, or rubbing it into the ground, it might not be them—it might be something you’re doing without realizing. These common mistakes usually lead to problems down the road. Using the Wrong Height Cattle fences that are too short or goat fences with wide gaps…
Summer’s hard on chickens—especially in hot, humid states. But sometimes we’re the ones making it worse without realizing it. These coop habits might be adding more heat, stink, and stress than necessary. Not Enough Ventilation If the coop doesn’t breathe, the heat builds up fast. Chickens don’t sweat—they pant. And if there’s no cross-breeze or…
Even if your barn seems buttoned up during the day, there’s a good chance something’s snooping around once the sun goes down. And a few small habits can practically roll out a welcome mat for every raccoon, coyote, or stray dog in the area. Leaving Feed Accessible Grain, cracked corn, and sweet feed left out…
You might think your feeding routine is solid, but some small habits are enough to invite a whole pest party. Roaches, ants, flies—you name it, they’ll find it if you’re not careful. Leaving Feed Bowls Out Too Long It doesn’t take long for leftover crumbs or spills to bring bugs in. If the animals aren’t…
Even if they don’t come inside, animals on the homestead have a way of tracking mess right up to the house. And sometimes that mess finds its way inside too. If things feel grubbier than usual, this might be why. Chickens Dust Bathing Too Close All that scratching and flapping kicks up dirt—and it doesn’t…
If your chickens are always somewhere they’re not supposed to be—like your porch, garage, garden, or neighbor’s yard—there’s usually a reason. And they’re not always trying to escape. Sometimes, they’re just following food, shade, or a bad habit you didn’t realize you taught them. Your Fence Isn’t High Enough A short fence might keep predators…