Mink fur farming is practiced in several countries despite significant welfare concerns. Understanding the welfare science informs consumer choices and policy advocacy.
Mink fur farming causes documented and significant welfare harm. Mink are semi-aquatic predators that in the wild range over large areas and access water regularly. Farm cages provide none of this space or behavioral complexity. The extreme prevalence of stereotypic behaviors in farm mink populations - much higher than in wild populations - indicates chronic behavioral frustration and welfare inadequacy. The scientific consensus that conventional mink farm housing is incompatible with mink welfare needs has driven bans in a growing number of countries. Consumer decisions about fur purchase directly influence whether this industry continues in countries where it remains legal.