Automatic milking systems (AMS) have transformed dairy farming with potential welfare benefits through voluntary cow-controlled milking, but also introduce new welfare challenges requiring careful management.
Robotic milking provides genuine welfare benefits through voluntary milking timing and reduced human handling stress. However, cows with lameness avoid walking to robots, causing udder engorgement and pain. High-yielding cows frustrated by robot access compete and develop negative social dynamics. AMS farms must manage cow flow proactively to prevent welfare problems. The technology creates both welfare opportunities and new welfare risks that require active management.