Farmed Mink Welfare and Fur Bans

Mink farming for fur has come under increasing scrutiny and legislative action due to welfare concerns, with over 20 countries now having banned or restricted the practice.

Key Facts

Farmed mink are semi-aquatic predators kept in small wire cages on fur farms
Mink show high rates of stereotypic pacing, self-mutilation, and infanticide on farms
The Netherlands, UK, Ireland, and many EU states have banned mink farming
During COVID-19, mink farms were sites of major outbreaks requiring mass culling of millions
Mink fur can be replaced by synthetic alternatives that are increasingly high quality

Welfare Considerations

Mink are highly motivated to swim, hunt, and roam territories - needs that cannot be met on fur farms. Chronic frustration leads to severe welfare problems including repetitive pacing (seen in over 90% of farmed mink in some studies), fur chewing, and stereotypic circling. Gas killing methods used at slaughter also raise welfare concerns. Legislative bans reflect growing consensus that mink welfare needs cannot be adequately met in commercial farming conditions. Transitions support farmers moving to alternative livelihoods.

What You Can Do

Avoid purchasing new fur products or items trimmed with real mink fur
Support legislation banning mink farming in countries where it still operates
Choose certified synthetic alternatives when buying warm outerwear
Donate to organizations campaigning for global fur farming bans
Support farmers transitioning away from mink production with economic assistance