Leather is predominantly a by-product of the meat and dairy industry, but its production involves slaughterhouse welfare, harmful tanning chemicals, and concerns about exotic leathers.
Leather welfare is linked primarily to the welfare of the animals in the meat and dairy systems from which hides originate. Improvements in cattle, pig, and sheep welfare directly improve the welfare of leather source animals. However, exotic leathers represent a separate welfare concern: crocodilians, pythons, and ostriches are often kept in intensive, barren conditions specifically for hide quality. Tanning pollution in low-regulation countries harms workers and ecosystems. Vegan leather alternatives have improved substantially in quality and durability, offering consumers credible options that avoid animal welfare concerns entirely.