Many countries have banned or are phasing out mink farming. Managing the welfare of remaining mink during industry wind-down and supporting farmers through transitions are active welfare and policy challenges.
Mink welfare in farming contexts has been extensively studied and consistently found inadequate in conventional cage systems. Mink are semi-aquatic carnivores with complex environmental needs that small wire cages cannot meet. Stereotypic behaviours — repetitive pacing, circling, and self-biting — occur in virtually all conventionally farmed mink, indicating chronic frustration of behavioural needs. As bans take effect, transition management is critical: remaining operations should implement enrichment, pool access, and reduced stocking densities. Mass killing events, when they occur, must use humane methods — CO2 chambers meeting welfare standards and avoiding the distressing methods documented during COVID culls. Supporting farmer transition through compensation schemes and alternative livelihood programmes is essential for smooth welfare-positive phase-out.