Effective pain recognition and management in cattle is a welfare imperative, with evidence showing that NSAIDs and local anaesthesia substantially reduce suffering during routine procedures and disease treatment.
Pain management in cattle has historically lagged behind companion animal practice, partly due to economic factors and the stoic nature of prey species that mask pain. Evidence clearly demonstrates that routine cattle procedures including disbudding, dehorning, castration, and surgical interventions cause significant pain that persists well beyond the procedure itself. NSAIDs administered at the time of procedure and for appropriate post-operative periods substantially reduce welfare harm. Regulatory requirements for pain relief during certain procedures have improved baseline standards, but veterinary and farmer education continues to drive improvement.