Welfare Science

Animal Welfare: Welfare Glossary and Terminology

Clear welfare terminology enables consistent communication between researchers, policymakers, industry, and advocates.

Key Facts

Scientific evidence guides best practice in this welfare area
Welfare improvements are achievable at reasonable cost
Public awareness and consumer choice drive positive welfare change
Every informed person strengthens the animal welfare movement

Welfare Considerations

Welfare terminology including sentience, sapience, nociception, affective states, and positive welfare has specific technical meanings that enable precise communication. Consistent use of agreed terminology reduces confusion and improves welfare discourse quality.

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