CAC CAC Livestock & Animal Science 2

Question 1

In swine production, what does the term 'pigs per sow per year' (PSY) measure?

Accepted Answer

Reproductive efficiency of the sow herd

Answer

PSY is the key productivity metric for swine operations, combining litter size, wean-to-service interval, and farrowing rate.

Question 2

Which condition describes mastitis in dairy cows caused by environmental pathogens such as E. coli or Klebsiella?

Accepted Answer

Environmental mastitis

Answer

Environmental mastitis is caused by pathogens the cow contacts in her surroundings, particularly in dirty bedding and stagnant water.

Question 3

A somatic cell count (SCC) below what threshold is generally accepted as indicating healthy mammary gland status in dairy cows?

Accepted Answer

200,000 cells/mL

Answer

An SCC below 200,000 cells/mL is considered indicative of a healthy, uninfected mammary quarter.

Question 4

The National Animal Identification System (NAIS) and its successor programs in the US are primarily designed to:

Accepted Answer

Enable rapid traceback during disease outbreaks

Answer

Animal ID and traceability programs allow USDA to quickly identify and contain disease outbreaks by tracing animal movements.

Question 5

What is the recommended withdrawal time purpose when using antibiotics in food animal production?

Accepted Answer

To ensure drug residues clear tissue before slaughter or milking

Answer

The withdrawal period allows the animal's body to metabolize and eliminate antibiotic residues to safe levels below FDA tolerances.

(CAC) Certified Agricultural Consultant Practice Test