Beef cattle finished in indoor systems require adequate space, enrichment, and social management to achieve acceptable welfare during the finishing period.
Beef cattle in intensive indoor finishing systems have limited opportunity to express natural behaviours. Barren slatted floor systems prevent lying comfort and limit locomotion. High stocking density increases competition and social stress. Welfare-focused finishing systems provide adequate space, bedded lying areas, and enrichment to support positive welfare states during the finishing period. Quality of life assessment shows that enrichment provision, adequate space, and social stability are the most effective welfare interventions in indoor beef systems.