Farm Animal Welfare

Cattle Welfare and High Altitude Management

High altitude cattle management presents specific welfare challenges including altitude sickness, cold weather, and limited grazing. Understanding these enables better management in upland systems.

Key Facts

Brisket disease (right heart failure) occurs in susceptible cattle at altitude above 2,000 metres
Calves are most susceptible to altitude sickness in the first months of life
Cold stress in upland systems requires adequate shelter and nutrition
High altitude grazing systems often support more extensive, lower-stocking welfare outcomes
Genetic adaptation to altitude exists in some traditional cattle breeds

Welfare Considerations

High altitude cattle welfare requires attention to altitude sickness risk, cold stress management, and nutrition in systems with limited grazing resources. Genetically adapted breeds and thoughtful management reduce these welfare risks.

What You Can Do

Support sustainable upland cattle management that protects high altitude welfare
Learn about altitude sickness in cattle and susceptibility factors
Advocate for welfare monitoring standards in upland cattle systems
Choose beef from verified sustainable upland systems where available