When are your Sheep or Goats Ready for Home Kill
Not sure if your sheep or goats are truly ready for home kill?
This guide walks through the simple signs smallholders can rely on — from age and breed to body condition, growth plateau, and welfare considerations. It also explains when transport to an abattoir isn’t suitable and why on-farm home kill can be the calmest, most practical option.
A must-read for anyone planning their livestock management with confidence
How Much Meat Do You Actually Get From a Whole Sheep? A Simple Guide for Smallholders
When you rear your own livestock, it’s only natural to wonder exactly how much meat you’ll get back from a whole sheep — and which cuts you can expect. Whether you’re experienced or just starting out, having a clear idea of yields helps with planning freezer space, choosing cuts, and getting the most from your animal.
Curious what you’ll actually get when you home-kill or butcher a whole sheep? This guide breaks down expected meat yield — across joints, roasts, chops and mince — and shows you what factors influence yield, from age and fat cover to butchery style. A must-read before you plan for your freezer or ordering a whole sheep
Let’s break it down in a clear and honest way.
A must-read before you plan for your freezer or home slaughter a whole sheep!