Interpretive Summary: A systematic mapping review of cattle welfare research during road transportation (2015–2025)
By: Lily Edwards-Callaway, Davida Rimm-Kaufman, Huey Yi Loh
Transportation is a stressful event for cattle during their lifetime, and there are many different factors associated with transportation that can impact cattle welfare. This study systematically mapped road transportation research in cattle from 2015 to 2025. One hundred twenty-five studies were evaluated. Studies evaluated many different transport-related factors with a primary focus on transport distance or duration. Other important factors like trailer microclimate and environmental conditions were minimally represented in the literature base. By highlighting these “knowledge gaps,” this map serves as a guide for scientists and industry leaders for future research efforts.
Read the full article in the Journal of Animal Science.