Feedlot systems confine cattle at high density for rapid weight gain - behavioural welfare including social dynamics, space, and enrichment are significant concerns.
Feedlot behavioural welfare has improved as the economic case for welfare-positive management has become clearer - stressed, injured cattle do not convert feed efficiently. However, welfare motivation alone is insufficient and economic drivers need to align with welfare goals. Key welfare improvements include stable social groups that minimise mixing-induced aggression, adequate bunk space to reduce feeding competition, shade provision for heat stress management, and monitoring of lameness and health that enables early intervention. UK beef finishing systems are generally less intensive than North American feedlots but still involve significant welfare variation.