Updated RSPCA welfare standards for dairy cattle

RSPCA Assured has announced the publication of the updated RSPCA welfare standards for dairy cattle, which will give cattle more space, additional pasture access, and better welfare at every stage of life.

The new version of the RSPCA’s dairy cattle standards comes into effect from 20 April 2026, following the usual three-month notification period. Notification letters were issued to all RSPCA Assured dairy cattle members on 19 January 2026.

The updated standards feature a wide range of improvements based on best practice and the latest science and advice from vets, farmers, and welfare experts. The standards aim to give cattle a better quality of life while supporting farmers on their higher welfare journey.

Key updates to the RSPCA dairy cattle standards

• Improved pasture access - Adult cattle must have access to pasture for a minimum of 120 days a year, for at least four hours a day (subject to weather conditions, veterinary advice or if a cow is in her transition period - meaning a cow that is shifting from late pregnancy to lactation). New records must be kept to evidence this, and heifers must also be given access to pasture before first calving
• Space and comfort - Space requirements for calving cows are now clearer, and there are new details on bedding, cleanliness, and lying areas
• New requirements for feed and water - Partitioned feeding systems must now provide at least 5% more spaces than the number of cattle using them, or 15% more spaces for transition cows, and there are clearer requirements for feed analysis and drinking space
• Transport - Cows in their last third of pregnancy must not be transported off the farm except as a last resort, such as disease control
• More humane slaughter procedures - By 1 January 2029, all cattle must go directly to an RSPCA Assured certified abattoir using a scheme-approved haulier, and there are new parameters and safety regulations for electrical stunning
• Protections for cattle being sold and sourced - Cull cattle that are being sold for further fattening, or new milking cattle being acquired, should not travel via collection centres or livestock markets, as they are likely to be more vulnerable animals. They must be sent and sourced directly to or from the destination farm
• Virtual fencing ban - The use of GPS-controlled virtual fencing with electric shock collars is not allowed due to welfare concerns
• Pain relief - There is now a clear requirement to provide pain relief for any condition that is likely to cause pain, such as lameness or assisted calving
• Veterinary access - All farms must have a Veterinary Health and Welfare Plan (VHWP)-listed vet with out-of-hours capacity, that can visit quickly in the case of an emergency
• Better housing conditions - Revised standards ensure buildings are well-maintained and that ventilation is effective
• Ban on routine antibiotic use - Preventive (prophylactic) antibiotic use is no longer allowed, and detailed usage tracking is required
• New calf care standards - Teat feeders are now required, abrupt weaning is no longer allowed, and enrichment is required from three weeks of age
• New rules for emergencies - Farms must have emergency plans and a clearly displayed action board with contact details and instructions.

Support is available to help farmers meet the updated standards

Izzy Candy, farming expert at RSPCA Assured, explains:

“The updated dairy cattle welfare standards will really help progress welfare on UK farms - from giving cows more time at pasture, to requiring pain relief for conditions such as lameness, and banning routine antibiotic use. These changes are practical, evidence-based and designed to make a real difference to the lives of dairy cattle.

“Alongside these new standards, RSPCA Assured members can find lots of additional helpful advice in the grey information boxes, or iboxes. They give a good idea of where the standards might be heading in the future, as well as useful additional welfare advice from our experts. They’re a great guide to help you stay ahead and understand what might be expected down the line.

“Any new, potential or existing RSPCA Assured members who need support or advice about meeting the updated dairy standards should contact our farming and technical engagement team by emailing help@rspcaassured.org.uk.”