What is the term for the shedding of a livestock animal's hair or wool?

The term that describes the shedding of a livestock animal's hair or wool is "molting." This process occurs as animals lose their old feathers, hair, or fur to make way for new growth, typically in response to changes in the seasons or environmental conditions. Molting is a natural cycle in many animals, allowing them to adapt to different temperatures and climates.

In the context of livestock, molting can be particularly significant for animals like sheep, which may shed their wool. Understanding this process is essential for effective livestock management, as it impacts not only the welfare of the animals but also the quality of wool or hair production.

Shearing, the option often confused with molting, refers specifically to the removal of fleece from sheep, typically performed by humans, and is a deliberate act rather than a natural shedding process. Meanwhile, furring relates to the development of fur rather than its shedding. Molt and molting can sometimes be used interchangeably, but they are less commonly used in livestock terminology compared to the broader term of molting, which encompasses the overall process of shedding and regrowth.