Horse slaughter is controversial due to the transport conditions and slaughter facility welfare challenges specific to horses. Horses are sensitive prey animals whose behavior makes humane slaughter especially challenging.
Horse slaughter presents genuine welfare challenges. Horses are more reactive to handling stress than cattle, making transport and pre-slaughter handling especially difficult. Captive bolt stunning of horses in standard facilities has documented failure rates. At the same time, prohibition of slaughter has created welfare problems through abandonment and neglect of unwanted horses. Comprehensive welfare standards for both humane slaughter and alternatives are needed.