Behavioural observation is increasingly used as a practical and non-invasive tool for assessing cattle welfare on farm, providing early warning of welfare problems.
Behavioural welfare indicators provide valuable real-time data that clinical examination alone misses. Changes in lying time, feeding behaviour or social interaction often precede clinical signs of disease by hours or days. QBA scores from skilled observers correlate with other welfare measures. Training farm staff to observe and interpret cattle behaviour is one of the most cost-effective welfare improvements available. Technology including automated monitoring systems can support but not replace skilled stockmanship.