ABSTRACT

Basuto cattle were probably originally descended from the African Zebu, but now through extensive intermixture with other types, this old strain has been almost completely submerged, though not entirely forgotten. The hump-backed cattle can still be found in their herds and called mekharane. Horses were unknown until introduced by Europeans. Donkeys and mules have been more recently introduced, having mostly been imported since about 1921. They are used mainly for transport and are fairly popular. Other domestic animals are pigs, cats, dogs and poultry, the first two having been introduced from Europe. Pigs are much prized for their meat and fat, although, owing to their dirty scavenging habits, some people refuse to eat them. Though Basuto knowledge and practice of animal husbandry is indifferent, their veterinary lore, though simple, is extensive.