Kleinvieh

Kleinvieh is a German term for small livestock kept on farms and households, especially on small-scale or family farms. It commonly includes poultry—chickens, ducks, geese, and turkeys—and small mammals such as rabbits; small ruminants like goats and sheep are sometimes included depending on the farm size. The term contrasts with Großvieh, which refers to larger livestock such as cattle and horses. Kleinviehhaltung serves to provide eggs, meat, manure, and diversification of farm income.

Management of Kleinvieh typically involves simple housing, fencing, and feeding facilities, with attention to animal health and welfare. Species differ in housing needs and care requirements, but routines often include outdoor access, clean feed, water, vaccination, and protection from predators. Breeding stock is usually kept for annual replenishment or for sale.

Economic and social context: On smallholdings, Kleinvieh contributes to household food security and cash flow, particularly in rural areas or as part of urban and peri-urban farming. In statistics and policy, Kleinviehhaltung describes small-scale livestock holdings and is used in assessments of farm structure, animal welfare, and rural development. The size of the operation can range from a few animals on a kitchen garden to small organized flocks or groups.

Cultural note: The expression Kleinvieh macht auch Mist—literally “small livestock also make manure”—is used proverbially to indicate that small contributions can accumulate into something significant.