Livestock markets handle millions of animals annually and represent a high-risk welfare point where animals from multiple sources are mixed, handled, and transported.
Markets concentrate welfare risks: unfamiliar environments, mixing of animals from different sources causing aggression, extended handling periods, and the stress of loading and transport all occur within short periods. Minimum duration markets, rapid throughput, adequate space during holding, and skilled handling by trained market staff reduce welfare harm. CCTV monitoring and veterinary presence improve accountability.