Zero-grazing (indoor-only) cattle systems are expanding as farms intensify. Understanding the welfare implications and mitigation strategies is essential for policy and practice.
Behavioural welfare is significantly compromised in zero-grazing systems — cattle are highly motivated to graze and perform a range of natural locomotor and social behaviours that indoor systems restrict. However, well-designed indoor systems with deep straw yards, adequate space, social housing, and good stockmanship can achieve acceptable welfare outcomes. The welfare debate is not simply indoor versus outdoor but about whether motivational needs are met regardless of housing system. Positive welfare indicators including play, allogrooming, and exploratory behaviour are measurably lower in zero-grazing systems.