Giraffe welfare in zoos requires specific attention to flooring, social group composition, and the provision of high browse that meets their unique anatomical requirements.
Giraffe welfare in captivity is challenged by the mismatch between their natural ecology and zoo environments. Foot and leg problems from hard substrates are common and painful. Limited movement reduces cardiovascular health. Social disruption causes stress in these semi-social animals. Providing varied terrain, appropriate flooring, high browse feeding stations, and compatible social groups are the most important welfare interventions.