Farmed Mink Welfare and the Fur Industry

Mink kept in small wire cages on fur farms exhibit high rates of stereotypic behavior and stress, leading to growing legislative bans worldwide.

Key Facts

Over 60 countries have banned or are phasing out fur farming
Mink are semi-aquatic carnivores with large natural home ranges averaging 1-4 km
Wire cage confinement prevents swimming, burrowing, and territorial behavior
Studies report stereotypic pacing in 30-50% of caged mink
COVID-19 outbreaks on mink farms in multiple countries accelerated ban discussions

Welfare Considerations

Mink are active, wide-ranging carnivores whose natural behavioral repertoire is almost entirely frustrated by cage confinement. The inability to swim, forage over large areas, or express territorial behavior causes chronic frustration and stress, documented by high stereotypy rates across farming systems. Welfare improvements within fur farming systems have been shown insufficient to meet mink behavioral needs. The growing international trend toward fur farming bans reflects both welfare science and public ethical concern.

What You Can Do

Avoid purchasing new fur products
Support legislative bans on fur farming in your country
Choose fashion brands that have banned fur from their collections
Support organizations working to end fur farming globally
Educate others about the welfare science behind fur farm bans