Animal welfare in large species: an integrated approach to livestock productivity and sustainability in the 21st century
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59169/pentaciencias.v7i3.1513Keywords:
environmental enrichment; equids; farm; ruminants.Abstract
Animal welfare in large species, such as cattle and horses, is essential to ensure ethical, sustainable, and efficient livestock production. Therefore, this documentary research, with a qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory approach, was based on a review of scientific literature published between 2010 and 2025, focusing on physical, emotional, and environmental welfare indicators in agricultural production systems. The methodology included the analysis of studies indexed in specialized databases; furthermore, recognized models such as the Five Freedoms, the Five Domains, and Welfare Quality were applied. Based on this, key criteria were identified, including adequate nutrition, constant access to clean water, hygienic housing conditions, preventive health management, and the ability to express natural behaviors. In addition, the incorporation of biohybrid technologies, preference tests, and environmental enrichment were highlighted as innovative strategies. As a result, an evolution in the assessment of animal welfare was observed, shifting from an approach focused solely on physical health and productivity to a more comprehensive view that also considers the animal's mental and emotional state. Consequently, it is concluded that implementing evidence-based strategies adapted to the local context not only benefits animal health and behavior but also improves productivity, sustainability, and the profitability of the livestock system.
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