Cattle transported across European borders experience extended journeys and multiple handling events - post-Brexit changes affect UK cattle exports and the welfare implications deserve scrutiny.
EU live animal transport welfare represents an ongoing welfare concern despite regulatory frameworks. The gap between transport welfare regulations and actual compliance documented by enforcement bodies and animal welfare organisations shows that legal standards alone are insufficient. UK legislation banning live cattle export for slaughter represents a significant welfare advance that aligns with public values and removes UK animals from the most welfare-compromising transport scenarios. Advocacy for equivalent EU reforms and stronger enforcement of existing regulations would protect welfare for the millions of cattle transported within the EU annually.