Catfish are the most widely farmed fish in the United States, with millions of pounds produced annually. Welfare standards in catfish farming are poorly developed.
Catfish in intensive pond systems face welfare challenges from high stocking densities, low dissolved oxygen events during hot weather, and disease pressure managed primarily with antibiotics. Processing involves gill cutting or decapitation often without prior stunning. The slow behavioral and physiological stress responses of catfish have led to assumptions of lower sentience, but they demonstrate learning, social behavior, and stress responses consistent with welfare significance. Improved stunning protocols before slaughter would address the most acute welfare concern.