Cattle transport is a major source of welfare compromise. Journey duration, loading procedures, and vehicle design all significantly affect welfare outcomes for millions of cattle annually.
Cattle transport stresses are acute and cumulative. Fear during loading and unloading causes injury from falls and collisions. Crowding during transport prevents lying and resting in species with strong rest needs. Heat stress in poorly ventilated vehicles causes respiratory distress, heat stroke, and death. Dehydration on long journeys causes physiological stress. Mixed groups of unfamiliar cattle cause social conflict and injury. Journey time limits based on welfare science rather than commercial preference would significantly reduce suffering.