Valutazione delle modalità gestionali in relazione al benessere animale in aziende di bovine da latte allevate nell’area sud-est della Toscana e relazioni con le produzioni quali-quantitative

Animal welfare represents a key component of modern livestock systems, with important ethical, productive and managerial implications. In dairy cattle, welfare is a multidimensional condition influenced by structural, sanitary and management-related factors. The present PhD research investigated the relationship between animal welfare, farm management and milk quality through an integrated approach, with the aim of developing practical tools to support on-farm decision making. The study was conducted on 21 dairy farms located in south-eastern Tuscany and monitored at three different time points (T0, T1, T2) using the ClassyFarm animal welfare assessment protocol. Between assessments, targeted advisory interventions were implemented to support farmers in improving management practices. In parallel, bulk milk samples were analysed to evaluate milk quality parameters, including routine components, fatty acid profile, mineral content and selected physiological biomarkers. Statistical analyses revealed significant relationships between milk parameters and farm management, confirming the potential of milk as an informative matrix reflecting both the physiological status of animals and farm management conditions. Based on these results, synthetic monitoring tools were developed, including the Rapid Milk Index (ILR) and the Lactation Welfare Index (IBL), designed to translate complex data into operational indicators applicable for the management and monitoring of animal welfare in dairy farms.