Livestock

Farmed Cull Dairy Cow Welfare and End of Life

Cull dairy cows — those removed from the milking herd — face significant welfare challenges.

Key Facts

Around 25-30% of the dairy herd is culled and replaced annually
Cull cows are often in poor body condition and health when removed
They may be transported long distances to abattoirs in compromised welfare state
Better cull cow management reduces suffering at end of life significantly

Welfare Considerations

Cull dairy cows are frequently the most compromised animals in the dairy system — removed because of lameness, mastitis, fertility failure, or low production, they often arrive at slaughter in poor condition after transport. Their end-of-life experience is often the worst welfare chapter in an already challenging life. Better monitoring of transport fitness and on-farm euthanasia where appropriate would significantly reduce suffering.

What You Can Do

Support transport fitness assessment requirements for cull dairy cows
Advocate for on-farm euthanasia where transport would cause suffering
Choose dairy from producers with documented cull cow welfare protocols
Back campaigns for better end-of-life standards in the dairy sector