How to Raise Small Animals for Profit

Many people are familiar with the profits that can come from raising large animals such as cows and horses. These animals can profit their owners in several ways. A horse can be sold for racing purposes while a cow's milk can bring profit to its owner. While profits can be good, larger animals require lots of space. Everyone can't afford the acres of land that it takes to raise large animals. The good news is that smaller animals can bring in money without requiring so much space. This is why knowing how to raise small animals for profit can be beneficial.

Instructions

    • 1

      Raise rabbits because you can profit from selling either their meat or fur. Research to see if there is a demand for the meat and fur to ensure you'll have a buyer in advance. Locate a local slaughter house or butcher unless you plan to kill the rabbits yourself. Choose the best rabbit for your particular climate because some do better in cooler climates while others only thrive in warm climates. Consider that rabbits can be slaughtered to bring profits for meat purposes in as little as 2 months. However, getting profits from rabbit fur will take around 4 or 5 months.

    • 2

      Raise chickens for profit because you can make money on their meat, eggs, feathers, and even their manure. Decide how many chickens you want because as little as four hens can bring you more than two dozen eggs in a week's time. Allow 3 months for a rooster to fully mature before selling their feathers for profit. Start raising the chicks by the first of spring so that when the winter comes they will be ready for butchering. Keep any types of predators away from your chickens as they can be a threat to them and their eggs.

    • 3

      Raise fish by operating a fish farm because plenty of them can be sold for profit once you're up and running. Find serious clients before starting up your operation. Start small by purchasing fish tanks to raise fish in until you become more comfortable at it. Keep your goals high because the Census of Agriculture reported that in 2002 the farmers of one state sold over 3 million fish due to fish farming operations. Keep in mind that it can take quite a bit of cash to raise fish; however, you can set up a single tank in your basement and begin raising fish for around $1000 dollars.

    • 4

      Raise bees for profit because you can make money from the honey. Remember that you can have as many hives as you can handle. Monitor each one of your hives for at least 30 minutes a day. Remember that the frames from a large sized bee hive may present a challenge when it comes time to move as the honey in them can weigh over 100 pounds. Keep in mind that although more hives can bring more honey, it will also cost you more in upfront costs and you'll need a larger location to raise the bees.