Cattle welfare, science and policy

Authors

  • Herman K. Wierenga Ministry of Agriculture, Nature Management and Fisheries, P.O. Box 20401, 2500 EK The Hague, The Netherlands
  • Harry J. Blokhuis DLO-Institute for Animal Science and Health, P.O. Box 65, 8200 AB Lelystad, The Netherlands

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/bovine-vol1997no31.1p16-18

Keywords:

cattle, animal welfar, animal behaviour, animal health, housing and management, transportanimal behaviour, beef cattle, behaviour, cattle housing, cows, dairy cows, milk production, transport of animals, veal calves

Abstract

This paper summarizes welfare problems in cattle. Behavioural as well as health problems are discussed for veal, beef and milk production systems. In particular in veal calves there are major welfare problems related to small space allowance, individual housing and denial of roughage. In the intensive beef production system there are welfare problems as well (some behavioural problems and leg disorders). Welfare problems in dairy cows are mainly caused by health problems such as claw disorders and mastitis. Welfare problems related to the transport of cattle are briefly described. Finally, potential threats are presented. In selecting programmes for increased meat or milk production, and in further developments of the milking robot and of biotechnology, the possible negative consequences for animal welfare (behaviour and health) need to be taken into account.

Cover image of Volume 31.1 of the Bovine Practitioner: a reproduction of the painting "A Place Called Home" by Bonnie Mohr, which is of a herd of cows grazing on a purple meadow at sunset. The sillouhette of a metal-sided barn, grain silo, and windmill stand out against the forest.

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Published

1997-01-01

How to Cite

Wierenga, H. K., & Blokhuis, H. J. (1997). Cattle welfare, science and policy. The Bovine Practitioner, 1997(31.1), 16–18. https://doi.org/10.21423/bovine-vol1997no31.1p16-18

Issue

No. 31.1 (1997 January)

Section

Articles