A consensus on the definition of positive animal welfare

Jean-Loup Rault, Melissa Bateson, Alain Boissy, Björn Forkman, Bjørn Grinde, Lorenz Gygax, Jes Lynning Harfeld, Sara Hintze, Linda J. Keeling, Lubor Kostal, Alistair B. Lawrence, Michael T. Mendl, Mara Miele, Ruth C. Newberry, Peter Sandøe, Marek Špinka, Alex H. Taylor, Laura E. Webb, Laura Whalin, Margit Bak Jensen

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Abstract

The concept of animal welfare is evolving due to progress in our scientific understanding of animal biology and changing societal expectations. Animal welfare science has been primarily concerned with minimizing suffering, but there is growing interest in also promoting positive experiences, grouped under the term positive animal welfare (PAW). However, there are discrepancies in the use of the term PAW. An interdisciplinary group arrived at a consensus that ‘PAW can be defined as the animal flourishing through the experience of predominantly positive mental states and the development of competence and resilience. PAW goes beyond ensuring good physical health and the prevention and alleviation of suffering. It encompasses animals experiencing positive mental states resulting from rewarding experiences, including having choices and opportunities to actively pursue goals and achieve desired outcomes’. The definition also considers individual and species-specific differences. It provides a framework for researchers to investigate PAW and thereby generate innovative, informative and reproducible science. Studies of PAW can contribute to a richer picture of an animal’s life and may elucidate the biological foundations of happiness. The definition creates opportunities to inspire scientific progress in animal biology and to align animal care practices, legislation and markets with societal expectations.
Original languageEnglish
Article number20240382
JournalBiology Letters
Volume21
Issue number1
Number of pages8
ISSN1744-9561
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2025

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