Farm Animals

Farmed Mink and Fur Industry Welfare

Mink farming confines semi-aquatic predators in small wire cages, causing severe welfare problems that have led to bans in dozens of countries.

Key Facts

Over 60 countries have banned or are phasing out fur farming
Mink in fur farms show high rates of stereotypic behavior including repetitive pacing
Mink are highly motivated to swim but are denied water access on most farms
COVID-19 spread rapidly through mink farms, leading to mass culls of millions of animals

Welfare Considerations

Mink are solitary, wide-ranging predators adapted to aquatic environments. Confinement in small wire cages causes profound psychological suffering expressed as stereotypies. The industry also poses significant disease spillover risks to wildlife and humans.

What You Can Do

Choose synthetic or plant-based alternatives to fur products
Support campaigns for fur farm bans in your country
Encourage fashion brands to commit to fur-free policies
Support sanctuaries for mink rescued from fur farms
Advocate for stronger enforcement of existing fur farm welfare standards