Animal Science: Animal Nutrition 101 (Printable PDF)

In this unit, kids will explore how livestock digest their food, what nutrients they need to stay healthy, and how farmers use feed labels and observation to manage animal health. From learning the parts of a cow’s four-compartment stomach to investigating what goat feed is really made of, kids will better understand how animal nutrition shapes modern agriculture. Whether they're just beginning or looking to deepen your knowledge, this unit will connect digestive systems, feed science, and poopology in a hands-on, engaging way.

WHAT THEY'LL LEARN

• Compare and contrast the digestive systems of ruminants, monogastrics, hindgut fermenters, and avian species.
• Learn how digestive structure impacts diet, feed efficiency, and the type of manure each species produces.
• Explore the five main nutrient groups animals need—carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals—plus water.
• Learn how different feedstuffs provide these nutrients and how they support growth, reproduction, and health.
• Understand how to read and analyze a livestock feed tag. Investigate feed samples, match ingredients to nutrient groups, and compare rations for species like pigs and goats to see how farmers meet animal needs.
• Take a closer look at manure as a tool for monitoring animal health.
• Create your own livestock poop models and learn how observing waste can reveal signs of nutritional imbalance, illness, or digestive problems.

WHAT YOU'LL RECEIVE...

• 68 (sixty-eight page, printable, PDF lesson guide and activities

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