Veterinary and husbandry procedures in cattle farming including dehorning, castration, and medical treatment require effective pain management to minimise suffering.
Pain management during veterinary and husbandry procedures in cattle is a fundamental welfare requirement that remains inconsistently practised. The evidence base for effective, affordable analgesia for common cattle procedures is well-established, but uptake among farmers is affected by cost, habit, and regulatory compliance. Mandatory pain relief requirements with veterinary prescription and oversight would substantially improve welfare outcomes.