Livestock

Farmed Cattle Zero-Grazing Systems and Welfare

Zero-grazing dairy systems keep cows permanently indoors, raising significant welfare concerns.

Key Facts

Zero-grazing systems are expanding as farm scale increases
They allow precise nutrition management and protection from weather extremes
Cows kept indoors year-round cannot access pasture or express grazing behaviour
Some studies show higher lameness and reduced welfare in year-round housed systems

Welfare Considerations

Dairy cows evolved to graze for 8-12 hours daily, covering significant distances. Permanent housing denies this fundamental behavioural need. Zero-grazing systems can provide good welfare in some respects — disease management, feed quality — while failing critically in others — natural behaviour, locomotion, and the positive welfare associated with pasture access. Mandatory outdoor access requirements would prevent the worst welfare impacts of zero-grazing systems.

What You Can Do

Choose dairy from producers with certified outdoor access
Support campaigns for mandatory pasture access requirements in dairy regulations
Advocate for outdoor access to be a core requirement in dairy welfare schemes
Reduce dairy consumption and choose higher-welfare sources where possible