Farm Animals

Cattle Pasture Access: Dairy Cow Welfare

Access to pasture for dairy cows provides welfare benefits through natural behaviour expression, exercise, and environmental complexity.

Key Facts

Cows show strong preference for pasture when given the choice, particularly in warm weather
Pasture access is associated with lower lameness rates, reduced somatic cell counts, and improved welfare indicators
Year-round pasture access is impossible in many climates due to weather and soil conditions
Many welfare certification schemes now require pasture access as a minimum standard

Welfare Considerations

Pasture access provides welfare benefits for dairy cows that housing cannot replicate, including space, varied terrain, social interaction at scale, and behavioural freedom. Where pasture access is achievable, it should be maximised. Where it is not, housing must provide equivalent opportunities for movement and behavioural expression.

What You Can Do

Choose dairy products from certified pasture-based systems where available
Support farm assurance schemes that require maximum feasible pasture access for dairy cows
Advocate for pasture access requirements in dairy welfare regulations