The design of cattle housing has significant welfare implications, affecting comfort, social behaviour, health, and the ability to perform natural behaviours.
Cattle housing design is one of the most significant and lasting determinants of welfare in housed systems. Poor cubicle design, inadequate bedding, insufficient space, and high competition for resources cause chronic welfare problems including lameness, injury, and social stress. Investment in evidence-based housing design pays welfare dividends throughout the productive life of a building.