Welfare Science

Live Animal Markets and Disease Risk

Live animal markets create significant welfare problems and disease risks, with global attention increasing following zoonotic disease emergence.

Key Facts

Live animal markets allow stress, crowding, interspecies mixing, and disease transmission
The trade in wild animals through live markets is a major pathway for zoonotic disease
COVID-19's origins are linked to wildlife market trade, increasing global awareness
Reform of live market conditions and wildlife trade oversight is gaining international momentum
Welfare improvements including slaughter on farm and chilled transport reduce market welfare harms

Welfare Considerations

Live animal markets cause significant acute welfare suffering through transport, crowding, and slaughter conditions, while also creating public health risks. Reforming or transitioning away from live markets is a dual welfare and health priority.

What You Can Do

Support campaigns for reform of live animal market conditions and wildlife trade regulation
Advocate for international standards for live animal market welfare and hygiene
Engage with the One Health framework linking live market welfare and disease risk
Support organisations monitoring and reforming live animal trade globally
Learn about the origins of zoonotic diseases and the role of animal welfare in prevention