The design of housing for farm animals has profound effects on welfare outcomes. Space allowances, flooring type, ventilation, and lighting all affect behaviour and health.
Housing design decisions made during farm construction last decades and affect millions of animals. Evidence-based design standards can prevent welfare problems at scale. Unfortunately, many housing decisions prioritise ease of management and initial cost over animal welfare. Welfare-informed design guidance from bodies like the AHDB and HSA provides practical routes to improvement.