Farmed Animals

Farmed Mink Welfare and Fur Industry Reform

Mink farming confines solitary, semi-aquatic carnivores in small wire cages, causing chronic suffering and raising significant public health risks.

Key Facts

Over 50 million mink are farmed annually for fur, primarily in China, Denmark, and Poland
Mink are naturally semi-aquatic and range over large territories in the wild
Cage confinement causes stereotypic pacing and self-mutilation in a significant proportion
COVID-19 outbreaks in mink farms led to mass culls in Denmark and other countries
Mink farming has been banned in the UK, Netherlands, Austria, and other countries

Welfare Considerations

Caged mink cannot swim, engage in natural foraging, or express any of their natural behaviors. The resulting frustration causes chronic psychological suffering evidenced by stereotypic behaviors. The combination of high sentience, strong behavioral needs, and complete inability to meet those needs in cages makes mink farming one of the most welfare-problematic animal industries.

What You Can Do

Choose fur-free clothing and fashion products
Support legislation banning mink farming in your country
Avoid purchasing products from brands that use farmed mink fur
Support sanctuaries that rescue mink from fur farms
Learn about the conditions in mink farms and share this information