Space allowances for confined livestock and their determination from allometric principles (2009)

Pethericka, J. C., Phillips, C. J. C.

Abstract

The amount of space provided to animals governs important elements of their behaviour and, hence, is critical for their health and welfare. We review the use of allometric principles and equations to estimate the static space requirements of animals when standing and lying, and the space required for animals to feed, drink, stand-up and lie-down. We use the research literature relating to transportation and intensive housing of sheep and cattle to assess the validity of allometric equations for estimating space allowances. ...We conclude that allometric relationships are an appropriate basis for the formulation of space allowances for livestock.