Transport is one of the most stressful experiences cattle endure. Long journeys, overcrowding, mixing of unfamiliar animals, and inadequate rest cause measurable suffering and economic losses.
Transport combines multiple stressors — novel environment, motion, noise, loss of social bonds, potential injury, and food and water deprivation — into a single prolonged event. For many cattle, transport to slaughter is one of the worst experiences of their lives. Shortening journeys, improving loading facilities, and training handlers in low-stress techniques are critical welfare improvements.