Livestock

Zero Grazing Systems and Dairy Cow Welfare

Zero grazing systems where grass is cut and brought to housed cows offer potential benefits in efficiency but raise questions about welfare compared to systems with outdoor access.

Key Facts

Zero grazing allows intensive grass utilisation without poaching or weather constraints
Removes benefits of pasture access including exercise, natural behaviour, and UV exposure
Welfare research shows mixed results with some measures improved and others reduced in zero grazing
Cow-comfort in zero grazing buildings is paramount as alternatives to outdoor expression
UK consumer expectations generally favour outdoor access or higher welfare assurance

Welfare Considerations

Zero grazing removes the welfare benefits of pasture access including natural locomotion, UV exposure, and environmental enrichment through grazing behaviour. Compensating for these losses requires excellent housing with cubicle comfort, enrichment provisions, and positive human-animal relationships. Welfare outcomes in zero grazing depend critically on management quality.

What You Can Do

Evaluate welfare outcomes in zero grazing systems using animal-based indicators
Provide maximum environmental enrichment within zero grazing buildings
Implement positive human-animal relationship training for all stockpeople
Consider welfare implications alongside efficiency when evaluating grazing system changes
Benchmark welfare outcomes against conventional grazing systems to identify gaps