Practical Observation Techniques for Livestock Health, Welfare and Productivity
Observation-based techniques empower farmers to understand their livestock better – catching early signs of stress, nutritional imbalance, and lameness before they escalate. These methods rely on precise systematic observation, helping farmers make informed, proactive decisions.
Not only do these techniques enhance animal well-being and productivity, but they also align naturally with homeopathic principles, which require deep, accurate observation.
Here are two powerful observation systems already being used by forward-thinking farmers:
The Obsalim Technique
Obsalim is a unique and practical tool developed by a French veterinary surgeon. It helps farmers assess the nutritional status of their ruminants using visual symptom cards.
By matching signs observed in cattle, sheep, or goats to the images on the Obsalim cards, farmers can diagnose dietary imbalances – such as incorrect protein-to-energy ratios – and make targeted feed adjustments. It’s a cost-effective, easy-to-learn method for improving ration precision and animal performance.
- Supports accurate feed decisions
- Aligns well with holistic and homeopathic approaches
- Encourages daily engagement and understanding of animals
Watch the interview with veterinary surgeon Edward de Beukelear of Ruminant Health below.
Cow Signals
Developed in the Netherlands by a veterinary surgeon, Cow Signals is a practical, structured system for identifying and interpreting behavioural and physical signs of stress in dairy cows and calves.
Farmers trained in Cow Signals learn how to spot issues like overcrowding, poor ventilation, or feed problems simply by observing cow posture, behaviour, and signs in the barn environment. By responding early, they reduce disease risk, improve productivity, and enhance overall welfare.
- Spot stress before it affects performance
- Improve housing, handling, and routines
- Create happier, healthier herds
Why Observation Matters
Preventative livestock care starts with knowing your animals and keeping them stress free – and that begins with observation. Techniques like Obsalim and Cow Signals train farmers to read what their animals are telling them. Combined with homeopathy or used on their own, these methods deliver real, measurable improvements in livestock health and farm performance.