Feedlot systems confine cattle at high density for rapid weight gain, raising welfare concerns around space, respiratory disease, and behavioral expression.
Feedlot systems concentrate the benefits of rapid weight gain while concentrating multiple welfare challenges. Respiratory disease rates in feedlots are high, reflecting the challenge of managing large numbers of animals with diverse health backgrounds in close proximity. Heat stress without shade is a significant welfare concern during summer. The transition from forage-based to high-concentrate diets causes digestive disruption including acidosis. Welfare improvements in feedlot systems focus on disease monitoring and treatment, shade provision, adequate space, and dietary transition management.