Farmed Animals

Zero-Grazing Dairy Systems and Welfare

Zero-grazing or indoor dairy systems deny cows access to pasture and raise significant welfare concerns.

Key Facts

Zero-grazing systems confine cattle indoors year-round for milking efficiency
Pasture access is a highly valued resource for dairy cows, who are strongly motivated to graze
Cows kept indoors show higher rates of lameness, mastitis, and reproductive problems
Research shows cows perform play behaviour including frisking and bucking when first released to pasture
Consumer preferences for pasture-based dairy are driving some market differentiation

Welfare Considerations

Dairy cows are strongly motivated to graze and engage in natural movement and social behaviours. Year-round indoor confinement denies these needs and is associated with elevated stress, disease, and reduced longevity. Pasture access is a key component of dairy cow welfare.

What You Can Do

Choose dairy products from certified pasture-based farming systems
Look for Pasture Promise certification or equivalent schemes
Ask your supermarket about its dairy welfare commitments
Support policy requirements for minimum pasture access in dairy systems