Animal malformation in factory farming

Nature

Some animals, especially calves, are kept on wooden slats in stalls where they cannot turn round and where they are tethered by the neck for life; with the result that the joints in the legs become deformed and often when the calf is taken to slaughter it cannot stand or walk. Most pigs after the weaning stage are fattened in houses where they have little more than room to lie down.

Background

Animal malformation in factory farming emerged as a recognized global concern in the late 20th century, as industrialized livestock production intensified. Reports from veterinary scientists and animal welfare organizations began documenting increased incidences of congenital deformities and growth abnormalities linked to selective breeding, overcrowding, and rapid growth regimens. International attention grew following studies in Europe and North America, prompting further investigation into the systemic causes and prevalence of malformations within intensive animal agriculture systems worldwide.

Incidence

White veal calves are kept in very close confined conditions on a diet specially designed to make them anaemic and therefore produce the 'white meat' which is particularly popular throughout Europe. Although it has been recommended that an animal should at least have sufficient freedom of movement to be able, without difficulty, to turn round, groom itself, get up, lie down and stretch its limbs, in practice the animals are not given this amount of freedom and are kept as immobile as possible in order to put on more weight. The use of slats makes it difficult for animals to stand properly, and as their weight increases so is it badly distributed, causing malformations.

Claim

Animal malformation in factory farming is a deeply troubling and urgent issue. The relentless pursuit of profit leads to unnatural breeding, causing severe deformities and lifelong suffering for countless animals. This blatant disregard for animal welfare is both unethical and unsustainable. We cannot ignore the moral responsibility to end these cruel practices—factory farming’s exploitation and the resulting malformations demand immediate action and widespread reform for the sake of compassion and decency.

Counter-claim

Concerns about animal malformation in factory farming are vastly overstated. Modern farming practices prioritize efficiency and animal health, making malformations rare and statistically insignificant. The focus should be on feeding the global population, not sensationalizing isolated incidents. Resources and attention are better spent addressing real issues like food security and sustainability, rather than exaggerating minor anomalies that have minimal impact on animal welfare or the quality of food produced.