Farm Animals

Mink Farming and Phase-Out Programmes

Mink farming for fur has been phased out in many European countries due to animal welfare concerns and disease risks highlighted during COVID-19.

Key Facts

Mink are semi-aquatic carnivores that naturally swim and hunt
Wire cage farming prevents natural behaviours entirely
Denmark culled 17 million mink in 2020 due to COVID-19 mutation risk
Over 15 European countries have banned mink farming
Mink show high rates of stereotypic behaviour indicating severe stress

Welfare Considerations

Farmed mink cannot swim, hunt, explore territories, or engage in normal predatory behaviour. Wire cages cause chronic frustration, with pacing and self-mutilation common. Welfare scientists consistently rate mink farming as among the most welfare-compromised of all farmed animal systems.

What You Can Do

Avoid purchasing fur products including mink
Support legislation banning fur farming in your country
Choose synthetic or ethically sourced alternatives to fur
Support organisations campaigning for fur farming bans
Raise awareness about the welfare conditions in mink farming