The potential benefits of cloning domestic animals in animal breeding and production are considered. It is concluded that cloning will not make a significant contribution to increasing the rate of genetic gain in selection programmes. It seems that only marginal advantages can be derived from the use of cloning in other areas of livestock production. If costs are reduced and embryo transfer technology continues to advance, the dissemination of genetic material in the form of cloned embryos could be a reality. It will lead to the introduction of greatly increased risk in animal production and the consequences can be substantial.