Introduction

10.0 Reproduction 10.1 INTRODUCTION Reproduction is the process by which animals have babies (i.e. reproduce). The body system responsible for this process is called the reproductive system. AHAs need to understand the reproductive system for the following reasons:

1. Most livestock producers cannot afford to keep animals that do not reproduce or give milk.

1. Many different medicines and treatments affect the reproductive system. If used improperly, these medicines may endanger the livestock or their owners.

1. Offspring have the combined qualities, both the good and bad, of their parents. Genetic improvement involves careful selection of breeding animals to improve their offspring, and is dependent on understanding the reproductive system.