Table 1 Categories and number of practices mentioned per category in relation to the farmers’ aim of maintaining and improving livestock health and welfare (n = 144; 1,139 practices mentioned)

Fodder/feeding

Kind of fodder, quality of fodder etc. (Table 2)

Animal care or management

Claw trimming, animal cleanliness, exercise during summer on alpine grazing grounds

Environmental management

Ventilation in the stable, cleanliness of troughs, sufficient litter

Human-animal relationship

Taking one’s time, handling with care and love, proper observation of animals

Veterinary medicine

Deworming, sheep dip, testing for Lyme disease, veterinarian medical control

Household remedy

Lubrication with used grease or lard against insects

Breeding

Own breeds, native breeds, Simmental breed vulnerable to claw problems

Cultural-religious activities

Sprinkling with holy water, feeding of sacred Easter horseradish, feeding of sacred salt

Other categories

Organic farming