# Camel Production Systems: Intensive, Semi-Intensive, and Extensive Models ## Key Takeaways - **Extensive systems** rely on natural grazing over large rangelands with low labor and capital input, but yield is low and vulnerable to drought and disease outbreaks due to minimal health monitoring. - **Semi-intensive systems** balance controlled grazing with supplemental feeding and partial confinement, requiring moderate land, labor, and capital, offering improved yield and health management compared to extensive models. - **Intensive systems** maximize output per animal and land unit through confinement and total mixed rations, demanding high capital, labor, and precise management of feeding, housing, and daily health monitoring to mitigate risks like metabolic disorders and lameness. - **Disease risk** is inversely correlated with animal density; extensive systems have lower risk due to dispersal, while intensive systems face higher risks from concentrated populations requiring stringent biosecurity and daily health checks. - **Economic viability** is dictated by input costs and market access, with extensive systems suited for low-input, local markets, while intensive systems require significant investment for high-volume, quality-controlled commercial markets. - **Decision-making** for system selection must integrate land resources, capital availability, labor capacity, market goals, and management expertise, with a structured framework guiding farmers toward the most appropriate model. --- This article compares intensive, semi-intensive, and extensive camel production systems to help farmers select the model that best fits their land, labor, capital, and market goals. Each system involves distinct trade-offs in feed inputs, housing, labor requirements, animal health management, and output potential. The information draws on official sources from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), and USDA agencies. Farmers should evaluate their specific resources, climate, and market access before committing to a system. ## At a Glance: Camel Production System Comparison The table below summarizes the key differences among the three primary camel production models. Use this as a starting point for decision-making, then consult the detailed sections that follow. | Feature | Extensive System | Semi-Intensive System | Intensive System | |---------|------------------|-----------------------|------------------| | Land requirement per animal | High (open rangeland) | Moderate (fenced pasture with some confinement) | Low (confined pens or barns) | | Feed source | Natural grazing, browse | Combination of grazing and supplemental feed | Total mixed ration, hay, silage, concentrates | | Labor input per animal | Low | Moderate | High | | Capital investment | Low | Moderate | High | | Milk yield per animal per day | Low to moderate | Moderate to high | High | | Growth rate | Slow | Moderate | Fast | | Health monitoring frequency | Low (seasonal) | Moderate (weekly) | High (daily) | | Disease risk | Lower (dispersed animals) | Moderate | Higher (concentrated animals) | | Manure management | Minimal (on range) | Moderate (partial collection) | Intensive (daily removal) | | Suitability for | Arid rangelands, low-input settings | Transitional zones, mixed farms | Peri-urban areas, commercial dairies | ## Extensive Camel Production System ### Core Principles and Management The extensive system is the traditional model for camel keeping, relying on natural rangelands and minimal human intervention. Camels roam over large areas, browsing on shrubs, grasses, and other desert vegetation. This system aligns with the camel's natural behavior and physiological adaptations to arid environments. The FAO's Domestic Animal Diversity Information System (DAD-IS) documents the global distribution of camel breeds, many of which are managed under extensive conditions (www.fao.org/dad-is). Farmers in this system typically move herds seasonally to follow rainfall and forage availability. ### Practical Workflow and Decisions A farmer operating an extensive system must make decisions about herd movement, water access, and breeding seasons. Key management actions include: - **Seasonal migration planning**: Identify grazing areas with known forage quality and water sources. Move herds before forage is depleted. - **Water scheduling**: Provide water every 2 to 7 days depending on temperature and forage moisture content. Camels can go longer without water than cattle, but dehydration reduces milk yield and growth. - **Breeding management**: Allow natural mating during the cooler months. Record breeding dates to predict calving seasons. - **Predator protection**: Use guard animals (dogs, donkeys) or night enclosures where predators are present. ### Observations and Measurements Farmers should track the following indicators to assess herd condition: - **Body condition score (BCS)**: Use a 1 to 5 scale. A BCS below 2.5 indicates undernutrition and requires supplemental feeding or movement to better pasture. - **Milk yield per day**: Record total milk from lactating females. Declining yield signals poor forage or water stress. - **Calf survival rate**: Count calves born and surviving to weaning. A rate below 70% warrants investigation into nutrition, disease, or predator losses. - **Distance traveled per day**: Note how far animals walk to water and forage. Excessive travel distances (over 20 km per day) can reduce energy available for production. ### Records and Measurements Maintain a simple herd record book with the following entries: - Animal identification (ear tag, brand, or microchip) - Birth date and sex - Dam and sire identification - Body condition score at each handling event - Milk yield (if milking is practiced) - Health events (illness, injury, treatment) - Breeding dates and calving dates - Mortality and culling dates with reasons ### Common Failure Patterns - **Overgrazing**: Keeping too many animals on limited rangeland leads to vegetation degradation and reduced carrying capacity. Signs include bare soil, erosion, and dominance of unpalatable plants. - **Water scarcity**: Failure to locate reliable water sources during dry seasons causes dehydration, weight loss, and death. - **Disease outbreaks**: Limited health monitoring allows diseases such as brucellosis, trypanosomiasis, and contagious ecthyma to spread undetected. The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) provides disease reporting standards and control guidelines (www.woah.org/). - **Inbreeding**: Without controlled breeding, genetic diversity declines, leading to reduced fertility and productivity. ### Limitations The extensive system has low output per animal and per hectare. It is vulnerable to drought, climate variability, and land-use conflicts. It is not suitable for farmers who need consistent year-round milk or meat production for a fixed market. ## Semi-Intensive Camel Production System ### Core Principles and Management The semi-intensive system combines controlled grazing with supplemental feeding and partial confinement. Camels graze on fenced pastures during the day and return to a central enclosure at night. Farmers provide additional feed during dry seasons or when pasture quality declines. This system offers a middle ground between low-input extensive management and high-cost intensive production. The FAO Animal Production and Health division supports research and extension on improved feeding and management for camelids (www.fao.org/animal-production/en). ### Practical Workflow and Decisions Farmers in a semi-intensive system make decisions about pasture rotation, feed supplementation, and health scheduling. Key actions include: - **Pasture rotation**: Divide land into paddocks. Move camels every 7 to 14 days to allow forage regrowth. Rest periods of 30 to 60 days are typical. - **Supplemental feeding**: Provide hay, silage, or concentrates when pasture is insufficient. Calculate feed amounts based on body weight and production stage. A lactating female may need 2 to 4 kg of concentrate per day in addition to pasture. - **Night housing**: Construct a simple shelter with shade, wind protection, and clean bedding. Provide at least 10 square meters per adult animal. - **Health program**: Schedule veterinary visits for vaccination, deworming, and hoof trimming. Record all treatments. ### Observations and Measurements Track these indicators to fine-tune management: - **Pasture height and biomass**: Measure grass height before and after grazing. Maintain a minimum residual height of 10 cm for most grass species. - **Feed intake**: Record the amount of supplemental feed offered and refused. Adjust rations to avoid waste. - **Milk yield and composition**: Test milk fat and protein content monthly. Changes indicate dietary imbalances. - **Body weight gain**: Weigh growing animals monthly. Target gains of 0.5 to 1.0 kg per day depending on breed and feed quality. ### Records and Measurements In addition to the extensive system records, maintain: - Pasture rotation schedule with dates and paddock numbers - Feed inventory and purchase records - Feed analysis results (protein, energy, fiber) - Veterinary treatment records with drug names, doses, and withdrawal periods - Milk production records per animal per day - Calf weaning weights ### Common Failure Patterns - **Pasture degradation**: Overstocking or short rotation intervals deplete desirable forage species. Signs include weed invasion and soil compaction. - **Feed cost escalation**: Relying too heavily on purchased concentrates erodes profit margins. Monitor feed cost per liter of milk or per kilogram of gain. - **Health problems from confinement**: Close contact increases transmission of respiratory and enteric diseases. Provide adequate ventilation and space. - **Inconsistent milk supply**: Failure to manage breeding and calving seasons leads to gaps in milk production. ### Limitations The semi-intensive system requires more land, labor, and capital than the extensive system. It is not suitable for very arid regions where pasture growth is unreliable. Farmers must have access to feed markets and veterinary services. ## Intensive Camel Production System ### Core Principles and Management The intensive system keeps camels in confinement for most or all of their lives. Animals are housed in pens or barns and fed a complete ration formulated to meet their nutritional requirements. This system maximizes output per animal and per unit of land. It is used for commercial milk production, fattening for meat, and breeding programs. The USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) conducts research on animal production and protection, including nutrition and health management for livestock in confined systems (www.ars.usda.gov/animal-production-and-protection). The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on animal health and welfare standards (www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). ### Practical Workflow and Decisions Intensive camel farming requires precise management of feeding, housing, health, and waste. Key decisions include: - **Housing design**: Provide well-ventilated barns with non-slip flooring, clean bedding, and adequate space. Allow 15 to 20 square meters per adult camel. Include separate pens for calves, lactating females, and breeding males. - **Feed formulation**: Work with a nutritionist to develop a total mixed ration (TMR) that meets energy, protein, mineral, and vitamin requirements. Typical ingredients include alfalfa hay, corn silage, barley, soybean meal, and mineral premix. - **Feeding schedule**: Feed twice daily at consistent times. Provide fresh water at all times. Monitor feed intake and adjust rations based on production stage and body condition. - **Health monitoring**: Conduct daily visual checks for signs of illness, injury, or lameness. Implement a vaccination and deworming schedule. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates animal drugs and feed additives, farmers must follow label instructions and observe withdrawal periods (www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary). - **Manure management**: Remove manure daily to maintain hygiene and reduce ammonia levels. Compost or store manure for later use as fertilizer. ### Observations and Measurements Intensive systems generate large amounts of data. Track these metrics: - **Feed intake per animal per day**: Record as-fed and dry matter intake. Compare to expected intake based on body weight and production. - **Milk yield per animal per day**: Measure and record at each milking. Monitor for sudden drops that indicate health or feed problems. - **Milk [somatic cell](/blog/guides/somatic-cell) count**: Test monthly. Elevated counts suggest mastitis or poor udder hygiene. - **Body condition score**: Assess weekly. Adjust feed if BCS falls below 2.5 or rises above 4.0. - **Water intake**: Measure daily. Reduced intake is an early sign of illness or feed palatability issues. - **Growth rate**: Weigh growing animals weekly or biweekly. Compare to breed standards. ### Records and Measurements Maintain comprehensive records for each animal: - Individual identification and pedigree - Birth date, weaning date, and weight - Daily feed intake - Daily milk yield (for lactating females) - Health events, treatments, and outcomes - Breeding dates, pregnancy diagnosis results, and calving dates - Culling date and reason - Feed analysis reports - Environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, ventilation rate) ### Common Failure Patterns - **Metabolic disorders**: High-concentrate diets can cause acidosis, bloat, and liver abscesses. Signs include reduced feed intake, diarrhea, and lethargy. Work with a veterinarian to adjust rations. - **Lameness**: Concrete floors and wet bedding increase the risk of foot problems. Provide dry, clean bedding and regular hoof trimming. - **Mastitis**: Poor milking hygiene and dirty housing lead to udder infections. Implement a milking routine that includes teat dipping and single-use towels. - **Respiratory disease**: Poor ventilation and high stocking density promote pneumonia. Ensure adequate air exchange and avoid overcrowding. - **Heat stress**: Camels tolerate heat but can suffer in poorly ventilated barns. Provide shade, fans, or misters during hot weather. ### Limitations The intensive system requires high capital investment for housing, feeding equipment, and milking facilities. Operating costs for feed, labor, and veterinary care are substantial. The system is vulnerable to feed price volatility and disease outbreaks. It is not suitable for farmers without reliable access to inputs and markets. ## Welfare and Safety Context ### Animal Welfare Considerations Each production system presents different welfare challenges. The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) provides standards for animal welfare in livestock production (www.woah.org/). Key welfare indicators for camels include: - **Body condition**: Maintain BCS between 2.5 and 4.0. Emaciation or obesity indicates poor management. - **Lameness**: Score lameness on a 0 to 3 scale. Any animal with a score of 2 or higher requires examination and treatment. - **Injuries and lesions**: Check for wounds, swellings, and abscesses. Provide treatment and address the cause. - **Behavior**: Observe for signs of fear, aggression, or abnormal repetitive behaviors. These indicate stress or poor housing conditions. - **Water access**: Provide clean, fresh water at all times in confined systems. In extensive systems, ensure water sources are within reasonable travel distance. ### Worker Safety Camels can be dangerous, especially during handling for milking, treatment, or loading. Follow these safety practices: - Use handling facilities designed for camels, including chutes, head gates, and non-slip flooring. - Train all workers in safe handling techniques. Never work alone with a camel. - Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as boots, gloves, and eye protection. - Keep escape routes clear and accessible. - Have a first aid kit and emergency plan on site. ### [Food Safety](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/cooking-chicken-bacteria-prevention) For farmers producing milk or meat for sale, food safety is critical. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates food products from livestock (www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary). Key practices include: - Maintain clean milking equipment and storage tanks. - Cool milk to 4°C within two hours of milking. - Follow withdrawal periods for all drugs and treatments. - Keep records of all treatments and feed additives. - Implement a biosecurity plan to prevent disease introduction. ## Biosecurity and Disease Prevention ### Core Principles Biosecurity reduces the risk of introducing and spreading diseases. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on animal health and welfare, including biosecurity guidelines (www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). Key principles apply to all production systems: - **Isolation**: Separate new or returning animals from the main herd for at least 30 days. - **Traffic control**: Limit visitor access. Require clean boots and clothing for anyone entering animal areas. - **Sanitation**: Clean and disinfect equipment, vehicles, and facilities regularly. - **Vaccination**: Follow a veterinarian-recommended vaccination schedule for diseases prevalent in your area. - **Dead animal disposal**: Remove and dispose of dead animals promptly according to local regulations. ### Practical Implementation - **Extensive systems**: Biosecurity is challenging due to open range. Focus on quarantine of new animals and monitoring for disease signs during handling events. - **Semi-intensive systems**: Implement controlled access to pastures and night enclosures. Clean water troughs and feed bunks regularly. - **Intensive systems**: Establish a strict biosecurity protocol. Use footbaths at barn entrances. Keep feed storage areas clean and rodent-free. ### Professional Escalation Criteria Contact a veterinarian immediately if you observe: - Sudden death of multiple animals - Signs of a reportable disease (e.g., anthrax, rabies, foot-and-mouth disease) - Severe lameness affecting more than 5% of the herd - Abortion storms (multiple abortions within a short period) - Neurological signs (circling, head pressing, seizures) - Unexplained drop in feed intake or milk yield affecting more than 10% of animals ## Economic Considerations ### Input Costs - **Extensive system**: Low cash costs for feed and housing. Main costs are labor for herding and water provision. - **Semi-intensive system**: Moderate costs for fencing, supplemental feed, and veterinary care. Pasture establishment and maintenance add expense. - **Intensive system**: High costs for housing, feed, labor, veterinary care, and utilities. Feed typically accounts for 50 to 70% of total operating costs. ### Output Value - **Milk**: Intensive systems produce the highest milk yield per animal, but milk price must cover higher costs. Semi-intensive systems offer a balance of yield and cost. - **Meat**: Intensive fattening produces faster growth and more consistent carcass quality. Extensive systems produce leaner meat with different market appeal. - **Breeding stock**: Intensive systems can produce high-value breeding animals with known genetics and health records. ### Market Access - **Extensive systems**: Often serve local or subsistence markets. May have limited access to formal milk or meat supply chains. - **Semi-intensive systems**: Can supply regional markets, especially if milk collection and cooling infrastructure exists. - **Intensive systems**: Best suited for formal markets with quality standards, regular supply requirements, and premium pricing. ## Decision Framework: Matching Production System to Farm Resources and Market Goals Selecting the appropriate camel production system requires a structured evaluation of farm resources, market conditions, and management capacity. The following decision framework provides a step-by-step method for farmers to assess their situation and choose the system that aligns with their specific circumstances. This framework complements the system descriptions above by offering a practical tool for making the final selection. ### Step 1: Assess Land Resources Begin by evaluating the land available for camel production. Measure total land area in hectares and classify it by type: open rangeland, fenced pasture, or arable land suitable for forage production. Determine the annual rainfall and growing season length. The FAO's Domestic Animal Diversity Information System (DAD-IS) provides climate and forage data for many camel-keeping regions (www.fao.org/dad-is). Use this information to estimate carrying capacity. - If land is extensive (over 50 hectares per animal) with natural browse and seasonal rainfall, the extensive system is the default option. - If land is moderate (5 to 50 hectares per animal) and can support improved pasture, the semi-intensive system is feasible. - If land is limited (under 5 hectares per animal) or unavailable for grazing, the intensive system is the only option. ### Step 2: Evaluate Capital Availability Calculate the capital available for initial investment and ongoing operations. Include costs for land, fencing, housing, water systems, feed storage, milking equipment, and livestock purchase. The USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) provides resources on livestock facility design and cost estimation (www.ars.usda.gov/animal-production-and-protection). - Low capital (under $10,000 per animal): Extensive system is most practical. Focus on low-cost infrastructure such as basic corrals and water points. - Moderate capital ($10,000 to $30,000 per animal): Semi-intensive system is achievable. Invest in fencing, simple shelters, and feed storage. - High capital (over $30,000 per animal): Intensive system is possible. Budget for climate-controlled barns, automated feeding systems, and milking parlors. ### Step 3: Analyze Labor Availability Determine the number of workers available and their skill level. Consider whether family labor or hired labor will be used. The USDA National Agricultural Library offers resources on [livestock labor management](/knowledge/animal-farming/farm-management/livestock-labor-management-hiring-training-retention) (www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). - Low labor (one person per 50 animals or more): Extensive system matches low labor requirements. Herding and seasonal handling are the main tasks. - Moderate labor (one person per 10 to 50 animals): Semi-intensive system works well. Daily tasks include feeding, milking, and pasture rotation. - High labor (one person per 10 animals or fewer): Intensive system requires this level of staffing for daily feeding, milking, health checks, and manure management. ### Step 4: Define Market Goals Identify the target market and required production volume. Consider whether the farm will produce milk, meat, breeding stock, or a combination. Assess market access, quality standards, and price expectations. - Local subsistence market: Extensive system can meet household needs and local sales. No formal quality standards apply. - Regional market with seasonal demand: Semi-intensive system can supply milk and meat during specific seasons. Some quality standards may apply. - Formal commercial market with year-round demand: Intensive system is required to meet consistent supply, quality, and food safety standards. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates milk and meat products (www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary). ### Step 5: Evaluate Management Capacity Assess the farmer's experience, training, and willingness to adopt intensive management practices. Consider access to veterinary services, feed suppliers, and technical support. - Beginner or part-time farmer: Extensive or semi-intensive systems are more forgiving of management errors. - Experienced farmer with technical support: Intensive system can be managed successfully with proper planning and professional advice. ### Decision Matrix Use the following matrix to match your assessment scores to the recommended system. Score each factor as low (1), moderate (2), or high (3). | Factor | Extensive (Score 1) | Semi-Intensive (Score 2) | Intensive (Score 3) | |--------|---------------------|--------------------------|---------------------| | Land per animal | High | Moderate | Low | | Capital available | Low | Moderate | High | | Labor available | Low | Moderate | High | | Market demand | Low/seasonal | Moderate/seasonal | High/year-round | | Management capacity | Low | Moderate | High | Add the scores for all five factors. A total score of 5 to 8 suggests the extensive system. A score of 9 to 12 suggests the semi-intensive system. A score of 13 to 15 suggests the intensive system. ### Practical Implementation Steps 1. Complete the assessment for each factor using your farm's actual data. 2. Calculate the total score and identify the recommended system. 3. Review the detailed system descriptions in this article for the recommended system. 4. Develop a transition plan if moving from one system to another. Allow at least one full production cycle (12 to 18 months) for the transition. 5. Consult with local agricultural extension services or a veterinarian experienced in camel production before making final decisions. The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) provides guidelines for animal health management in different production systems (www.woah.org/). ### Limitations of the Framework This decision framework provides general guidance but cannot account for all local conditions. Factors such as climate variability, land tenure, cultural practices, and government policies may override the framework's recommendations. Farmers should adapt the framework to their specific context and seek local expert advice. The framework is a starting point, not a substitute for detailed farm planning and financial analysis. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is the best camel production system for a beginner farmer? The semi-intensive system is often the best starting point for a beginner. It requires less capital than the intensive system and offers more control than the extensive system. A farmer can learn basic management skills while keeping costs manageable. Start with a small herd of 5 to 10 animals and expand as experience grows. ### How much land do I need for an extensive camel system? Land requirements vary by region and forage quality. In arid rangelands, a general guideline is 10 to 50 hectares per camel, depending on rainfall and vegetation density. Work with local agricultural extension services to determine the carrying capacity of your land. Overstocking leads to degradation and reduced productivity. ### Can I raise camels intensively in a cold climate? Yes, but housing must provide protection from wind, rain, and snow. Camels tolerate cold better than heat, but they need dry bedding and shelter from drafts. Provide adequate ventilation to prevent respiratory disease. Insulated barns with controlled ventilation are recommended for very cold regions. ### What are the main health risks in intensive camel systems? Metabolic disorders from high-concentrate diets, lameness from hard flooring, mastitis from poor milking hygiene, and respiratory disease from poor ventilation are the main risks. Implement a preventive health program with regular veterinary oversight. Monitor feed intake, body condition, and milk quality closely. ### How do I choose between a semi-intensive and intensive system? Consider your capital, land, labor, and market. If you have limited capital but some land and labor, start with semi-intensive. If you have access to capital, a reliable feed supply, and a premium market for milk or meat, intensive may be viable. Analyze your projected costs and revenues before deciding. ### What records should I keep for a camel farm? Maintain individual animal records for identification, birth, breeding, health, and production. Keep feed and pasture management records. Track financial records including income, expenses, and inventory. Good records help identify problems early and support management decisions. ### How do I prevent disease in an extensive camel system? Disease prevention in extensive systems focuses on herd-level measures. Quarantine new animals for 30 days. Vaccinate against endemic diseases. Monitor animals during handling events. Avoid mixing with other livestock species. Provide mineral supplements if deficiencies are known. ### What is the role of the veterinarian in camel production? A veterinarian provides preventive care, diagnoses and treats diseases, advises on nutrition and management, and helps with biosecurity planning. Establish a relationship with a veterinarian experienced in camel medicine. Schedule regular herd health visits and have an emergency contact protocol. ## Related Farming Guides - [Veal Production Systems Housing Nutrition And Welfare](/knowledge/animal-farming/beef-cattle/veal-production-systems-housing-nutrition-and-welfare) - [Dairy Beef Production Systems Crossbreeding Feeding And Marketing](/knowledge/animal-farming/beef-cattle/dairy-beef-production-systems-crossbreeding-feeding-and-marketing) - [Goat Milk Production Quality](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/goat-milk-production-quality) - [Dairy Farm Labor Management Hiring Training And Retention](/knowledge/animal-farming/dairy-cattle/dairy-farm-labor-management-hiring-training-and-retention) - [Dairy Calf Colostrum Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/dairy-cattle/dairy-calf-colostrum-management) ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Water Buffalo Genetic Improvement and Breeding Programs](/knowledge/animal-farming/alternative-livestock/water-buffalo-genetic-improvement-breeding-programs) * [Camel Farm Biosecurity: Disease Prevention and Quarantine Protocols](/knowledge/animal-farming/alternative-livestock/camel-farm-biosecurity-disease-prevention-quarantine-protocols) * [Water Buffalo Farm Equipment and Infrastructure](/knowledge/animal-farming/alternative-livestock/water-buffalo-farm-equipment-infrastructure) ## References and Further Reading - [www.fao.org](https://www.fao.org/dad-is) - [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en) - [World Organisation for Animal Health](https://www.woah.org/) - [Animal Health and Welfare](https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). USDA National Agricultural Library. - [Animal Production and Protection](https://www.ars.usda.gov/animal-production-and-protection). USDA Agricultural Research Service. - [Animal and Veterinary Resources](https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary). U.S. Food and Drug Administration. > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.