Fur farming keeps wild-natured animals in small cages causing severe suffering, and an increasing number of countries have banned the practice outright.
Fur farming imposes extreme welfare deprivation on animals whose behavioral needs cannot be met in cage environments. Mink evolved for exploration, swimming and hunting across wide territories. Cage confinement causes chronic frustration expressed through stereotypic behaviors - repetitive, apparently purposeless movements that indicate psychological suffering. Foxes and raccoon dogs on fur farms show similarly high levels of stereotypy and fear. The industry has attempted to address welfare concerns through 'enrichment' programs but the fundamental incompatibility between highly mobile, intelligent predators and small wire cages means that welfare cannot be adequately addressed without ending confinement entirely. The global trend toward banning fur farming reflects growing ethical consensus.