Emus are the second largest bird in the world and are farmed primarily for their oil, meat, and leather, raising welfare concerns about confinement and handling practices.
Emus farmed intensively suffer from inadequate space for their natural running and foraging behaviors. Handling of emus is inherently stressful due to their size and strength. Slaughter methods must account for their physical characteristics. Emus are generally farmed in extensive systems in Australia due to the land availability, but intensive operations exist. Their inquisitive nature means enrichment is important for welfare. Emus raised in small numbers as novelty animals often suffer from inadequate social contact as they are highly gregarious. Injuries during catching and loading are a welfare concern. The farming industry is relatively small scale but growing.