(Natural News) Before you head out to buy livestock that you want to raise on your homestead, you need to consider these important points. Reading the tips listed below can help, especially if you're having a hard time deciding what kind of animals best suits your needs.

This article will focus on the basic aspects of raising livestock like animal cost and their housing needs. It will also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of various livestock. As you try to decide what kind of animal you're going to raise in your homestead, keep your personal preference in mind.

As an aspiring homesteader, you also need to read up on livestock regulations because there are local restrictions and laws that will affect the kinds and number of animals that you can keep. Check these rules before your build or purchase anything. Don't forget to think of the noise and smells that your neighbors will have to deal with, so be considerate. (Related: You Should Really Learn These 10 Homesteading Skills.)

5 Mini-farm animals to raise on your homestead

Rabbits – Rabbits are clean, quiet, and fertile animals. You only need a small space to keep them in, and if their hutches or cages are clean enough, you won't have to deal with flies. Rabbits are worth every dollar you spend on them because they will provide you with meat and pelts on a regular basis. However, rabbits are prone to predator attacks so build fences to keep them safe.

Chickens – Homesteaders are fond of chickens because these birds are a reliable source of eggs or meat. Dual breeds will also provide you with both if you raise them well. Chickens are also good at foraging, but keep them fenced in or clip their wings so they don't fly over your barriers. You'll also need strong coop fences to protect your chickens from predators.

Sheep — Like rabbits, sheep are quiet and clean animals. In season, you can raise sheep on good grassland. Sheep will provide you with milk, meat, and wool. These animals require less maintenance than chickens or rabbits, but they also need protection against predators.

Goats – A steady source of milk, goats can also provide homesteaders with meat and hides. Take note that a dairy goat needs milking "twice a day, seven days a week, through her entire ten-month lactation period," which can be too much work for newbie homesteaders. Goats are also noisy, and they might attack their fences. When raising goats for their milk, read up on their nutritional needs, especially during lactation and dry periods. Goats will also need proper veterinary care.