The 5 fundamental freedoms of animal welfare
Since the law of July 10, 1976, which defines the animal "as a sentient being that must be placed in conditions compatible with the biological imperatives of its species", well-being has encompassed five fundamental freedoms, to which every animal must have access:
- Freedom from hunger and thirst, thanks to free access to fresh water and a suitable diet;
- Avoid discomfort by providing an appropriate environment, including shelter and comfortable rest areas;
- Be free from pain, injury and disease; the animal must not be mistreated in a way that could cause it pain or injury, and must be cared for in the event of illness;
- No fear or distress, breeding conditions that do not introduce mental suffering;
- To have the freedom to express normal behaviors, thanks to adequate space and equipment, and the possibility of contact and interaction with animals of its own species.
When it comes to animal husbandry, respect for animal welfare goes beyond the regulatory aspect. Firstly, because those who choose this profession do so out of a passion for animals. But also because only animals living in respectful conditions will be able to fully express their genetic potential, in terms of growth and productivity.
The quality of the flooring in livestock buildings is an important welfare factor, affecting comfort, cleanliness and the prevention of disease and injury. Cows with healthy feet will produce longer and be more fertile. This is good for the bottom line.
Too abrasive, slippery or damp, unsuitable flooring increases the risk of lameness. A lameness costs an average of €250, not counting the extra time spent caring for the sick animal. What's more, the pain and reduced mobility lead to reduced feed intake, which is detrimental to milk production. In the case of severe lameness, the French livestock institute (Institut de l'élevage) estimates that milk production can fall by up to 36%. The risk of early culling is multiplied by 5, and there is a 15-fold increase in the risk of fertility problems. All in all, a loss of income for the breeder.
Investing in well-being: a winning return
Patrick Busnot's cows were suffering from foot problems and lameness as a result of new but badly grooved concrete. Faced with the extent of the problems, the breeder and his partners decided to install mats Magellan. Within a week, we saw a positive effect on the animals' movements," recalls the breeder. It's true that installing mats costs a certain amount of money, but if we have less lameness and fewer injured cows, we'll make up for it in increased production. Floor comfort is all the more important for high-production cows. If we want them to produce at their best, we have to give them every possible comfort .
At Gaec Etang de la Roche, Marsac sur Don (44), Magellan mats were installed over 472m2 to cover poorly scarified concrete and solve the problem of recurring lameness in this 180-cow herd. The cost of the carpet and the new scraper represents an investment of 2 euros cents per liter of milk," says Stéphane Roué. Before, we had 80 lameness cases a year. By reducing the number of lameness cases, we're going to save on veterinary costs and gain in terms of milk. I think that in 2 or 3 years, we'll have recouped this investment.
