Pain management in farm animals has historically been inadequate due to cost, practicality, and underestimation of animal pain, but attitudes and practices are improving.
Routine painful procedures on farm animals cause acute and chronic pain that impacts behavior, growth, and immune function. The argument that pain relief is too expensive or impractical has been thoroughly refuted by evidence showing that treated animals recover faster, eat more, and gain weight more efficiently. The primary barriers are cultural attitudes, habit, and insufficient veterinary regulatory requirements. Mandatory pain relief for all elective procedures is achievable and justified.