Alternativas de enriquecimento ambiental na bovinocultura leiteira: uma revisão.

Abstract

This work conducted a literature review on alternatives for environmental enrichment in dairy cattle farming, focusing on its impacts on the health, behavior, and productivity of the animals. The results showed that practices such as providing interactive objects (brushes, ropes), use of music, presence of other animals, dietary diversification, and access to grazing areas significantly improved the well-being of the cattle, reducing stereotypical behaviors and stress. Furthermore, it was observed that environmental enrichment can contribute to greater weight gain and productive efficiency, especially in confined systems. However, the economic viability and adaptation to different productive realities are still challenges to be considered. It was concluded that environmental enrichment is a promising strategy in cattle ranching, but its implementation should be planned according to the specific conditions of each property, balancing costs, sustainability, and benefits to the animals. The perspective of producers is still cautious, requiring more dissemination of practical results and incentives for large-scale adoption.