Winter housing of cattle is standard practice in temperate climates, with housing design, space allowance, and management profoundly affecting welfare outcomes for housed beef and dairy cattle.
Winter housing quality is a major determinant of cattle welfare for the majority of the year in temperate farming systems. Inadequate space allowance prevents all animals from lying simultaneously, leading to chronic sleep deprivation and social stress. Slatted floors cause foot lesions and lameness at higher rates than straw-bedded systems. Poor ventilation increases pathogen load and respiratory disease risk. Evidence-based housing standards that specify minimum space allowances, bedding requirements, ventilation parameters, and lighting represent the most cost-effective welfare intervention available.