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. Un