[Cincinatus' Wife]

However, the last thing I would get rid of if I were facing a shortage of corn or wheat would be goats or chickens, which can be sustained of a varied diet.

I don't think they could protect their stores or animals from hungry neighbors. Owning them might even be considered dangerous to their health.

[Vigilantcitizen]

This is true. Good point.

[another cricket]

A point I hadn't considered. How would you prevent your neighbors from having a goat barbecue?

a.cricket