Fear is one of the most significant negative welfare states in farmed animals, caused by human handling, novel environments, social disruption, and routine management procedures.
Fear in farmed animals is not merely an ethical problem but a welfare and productivity issue with direct economic costs. The sympathetic nervous system activation of fear responses diverts resources from growth and immune function. The most tractable intervention is improving human-animal relationships through positive early contact and avoiding frightening handling methods. Farm design that enables calm animal movement, well-trained stockpeople, and appropriate handling facilities all reduce fear. Measuring fear through flight distance or avoidance tests provides a simple, validated welfare audit tool.