Farm Animals

Find information about poultry (chickens, turkeys, etc.) on the backyard poultry page.

Find information on horses on the horses page.

See recent outbreaks linked to farm animals

Interacting with farm animals or livestock like cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, llamas, and alpacas can provide education, entertainment, and in many cases a livelihood. Many people will only see farm animals at petting zoos or on farm visits. For others, work with farm animals is a career, lifestyle, or tradition. Some types of farm animals, like goats and pigs, are increasingly being treated like pets or used in settings outside the farm (for example, goat yoga); however, it’s important to remember that these animals are livestock and are not meant to live inside the home or be kept indoors, which increases the risk of illness in people.

Although there are many benefits to interacting with farm animals, it’s important to be aware that farm animals can sometimes carry harmful germs that can cause a variety of illnesses in people, ranging from minor skin infections to serious illnesses. One of the best ways to protect yourself from getting sick is to thoroughly wash your hands right after handling farm animals, their supplies, or anything in the areas where they live and roam.

By providing your farm animals with routine veterinary care and following the Healthy People tips, you are less likely to get sick from touching, owning, visiting, or working with farm animals.