Farm Animals

Cattle Welfare: Calving Ease and Genetics

Genetic selection for calving ease reduces dystocia and associated welfare costs for both cows and calves.

Key Facts

Evidence-based animal welfare practices improve outcomes for animals and producers alike
Scientific research guides best practice in this area
Welfare improvements in this area are achievable at reasonable cost
Public awareness and consumer choice can drive positive change

Welfare Considerations

Dystocia causes pain, injury, and death for cows and calves. Genetic selection for calving ease in both bulls and cows reduces the incidence of difficult births, with welfare and economic benefits that justify the selection priority.

What You Can Do

Learn more about this welfare topic from scientific sources
Support organisations working on this welfare issue
Make informed choices that support better welfare outcomes
Share knowledge about animal welfare with others