Channel catfish are one of the most important farmed fish species in the United States, with welfare implications at stocking density, water quality, and slaughter stages.
Catfish welfare during production is affected primarily by water quality management, stocking density, and handling practices. High stocking densities increase disease pressure and aggression, particularly barbel damage and fin deterioration. Welfare standards are emerging but not yet universal in US catfish production. At slaughter, electrical stunning systems must be validated to ensure loss of consciousness before bleeding, and rapid CO2 methods cause aversion and prolonged distress and should be phased out.