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15. RSPCA unveils new standards to ‘give cows more time at pasture’

Published on January 21st, 2026 | Last updated on January 22nd, 2026

These updated standards aim to give cattle more space, additional pasture access, and better welfare at every stage of life. The new revised standards will come into effect from April 20, 2026 and are designed to support better welfare outcomes, while remaining practical for farms to deliver. They feature a wide range of improvements based on best practice and the latest science and advice from vets, farmers, and welfare experts.

This paper is by Adam Murphy for Agriland

Key updates to the RSPCA dairy cattle standards include: