Lamb Castration Consultation

Defra has opened a UK UK–wide consultation inviting sheep producers and the wider industry to share their views on the proposed changes to the rules for lamb castration and tail docking.  

The aim is to improve animal welfare by reducing unnecessary pain and ensuring methods and timings are aligned with the latest scientific evidence and practical strategies on farm.  

The proposals include greater use of pain relief for methods known to cause pain, limits on when and who can perform procedures, and wider access to lower-impact techniques.  

The survey can be found here – Lamb welfare: proposed changes to castration and tail docking methods – GOV.UK  

The consultation remains open until 9th March 2026. Change is coming and completing the consultation gives sheep farmers a vital voice in shaping future regulations that affect animal welfare, best practice and business sustainability. It is an important opportunity to ensure policy reflects the realities of UK sheep production and supports practical, affordable improvements on farm.