Farm Animal Welfare

Sheep Pain Recognition and Management

Pain recognition in sheep is challenging due to their stoic nature, but validated tools now enable more effective welfare monitoring.

Key Facts

The Sheep Pain Facial Action Unit (SPFAU) scale is validated for acute pain
Lameness scoring gives indirect evidence of musculoskeletal pain
Footrot, mastitis, and dystocia are common painful conditions
Sheep show subtle behavioural changes including reduced social engagement
NSAIDs significantly reduce pain responses in validated trials

Welfare Considerations

Sheep tend to conceal pain, making proactive monitoring essential. Using validated pain scales and treating painful conditions promptly - including providing appropriate analgesia - is now achievable in farm practice.

What You Can Do

Train farm staff in sheep pain recognition using validated tools
Ensure veterinary protocols include appropriate analgesia for painful procedures
Treat lameness early before it becomes chronic and welfare-compromising