Goat milk production is expanding globally as dairy alternatives gain popularity, but welfare standards in goat dairy farming are often inadequate and poorly monitored.
Goats in intensive systems on hard slatted floors develop hoof problems and joint injuries. Their natural climbing and foraging behaviour is impossible indoors. Disbudding causes acute and post-operative pain that is inadequately managed in most operations. The disposal of male dairy kids — either by shooting or sale to poorly regulated veal systems — is a systemic welfare problem in the dairy goat sector.