Welfare Science

Animal Welfare Science Progress 2026

A comprehensive review of progress in animal welfare science across all sectors in 2026.

Key Facts

Fish pain science has advanced substantially, with consensus growing on sentience across vertebrates
Positive welfare assessment tools are now available for multiple species including pigs and cats
Precision livestock technology is enabling individual welfare monitoring at commercial scale
Invertebrate welfare science is advancing with better understanding of bee and crustacean nociception
Consumer engagement with welfare certification is growing in key markets globally

Welfare Considerations

Animal welfare science in 2026 is broader, deeper, and more practically applied than at any point in its history. The challenge is ensuring that the gap between scientific understanding and commercial practice continues to narrow. Science without application does not reduce animal suffering.

What You Can Do

Engage with and share advances in animal welfare science
Support organizations that translate welfare science into policy and practice
Advocate for welfare science to be funded proportionate to the number of animals affected