Validated pain assessment tools including the Cow Pain Scale help farmers and vets recognise and treat pain in cattle that might otherwise go undetected and untreated.
Cattle experiencing pain from disease, injury, or management procedures often show subtle signs missed by untrained observers. Without validated assessment tools, pain may go unrecognised and untreated for days. Facial action unit changes including orbital tightening, ear position, and nose ring provide objective pain indicators that can be assessed without extensive training. Integrating pain assessment into routine disease monitoring protocols ensures painful conditions are treated promptly, substantially improving welfare outcomes across the herd.