Tail docking in dairy cattle - surgical shortening of the tail - was common practice but is now banned in many countries following evidence that it provides no welfare or management benefit.
Cattle tail docking is a welfare harm without compensating benefit. The pain of docking and risk of neuroma formation are well-documented, while the claimed benefits (mastitis reduction, hygiene improvement) are unsupported by evidence. Intact tails serve genuine welfare functions including fly control. The regulatory response in the EU and UK - banning or strongly discouraging the practice - appropriately reflects the evidence. Continued use in countries without regulatory restriction represents an evidence-based welfare failure that can be addressed through consumer pressure and advocacy.