Sensory Biology of Cattle: Vision, Perception and Welfare
Course description
This course explores how cattle perceive their environment, with a primary focus on vision and its role in behaviour, welfare, and management. Although cattle are among the most widely managed animals globally, their sensory world remains poorly understood. The course introduces the anatomical and functional basis of bovine vision and places it within the broader framework of sensory perception.
Participants will examine how cattle interpret visual information in different contexts, including housing, handling, and social interactions, and how mismatches between animal perception and human-designed environments can affect welfare and safety. The course integrates sensory biology with applied ethology and encourages critical discussion of current knowledge gaps and research approaches.
Course facts
P000178, Sensory Biology of Cattle: Vision, Perception and Welfare, 3.0 Hp
Print syllabus
Syllabus
Finalized by: FUN-LTV, 2026-04-08
Valid from : First half-year 2026 (2026-01-01)
Level
Third cycle
Subject
Biology
Grading Scale
The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.
Course language
English
Entry Requirements
Objectives
After completion of the course, students should be able to:
• Critically analyse the anatomical and functional basis of vision in cattle
• Explain how visual perception influences behaviour, cognition, and welfare in cattle
• Evaluate how management systems interact with cattle sensory capacities
• Identify and critically assess knowledge gaps in cattle sensory research
• Integrate sensory biology concepts into experimental design or applied contexts
• Communicate scientific concepts related to animal perception clearly in oral form
Content
The course focuses on sensory biology in cattle, with particular emphasis on vision and its role in perception, behaviour, and welfare.
Topics include:
• Anatomy and physiology of bovine vision (visual field, acuity, colour perception)
• Visual perception and cognition (learning, attention, interpretation)
• Behavioural responses to visual stimuli in different contexts
• Vision in handling, housing design, and human–animal interactions
• Sensory mismatches in modern production systems
• Integration of vision with other sensory modalities (overview)
• Methods for studying perception in animals
• Implications for animal welfare, safety, and system design Teaching formats:
• A series of journal clubs with student-led discussions
• Case discussions (e.g. handling systems, housing)
• Oral presentation where learned knowledge is implemented in own research
Perspectives:
• Animal welfare and ethics
• Applied vs fundamental biology
• International livestock systems
Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course
Active participation in seminars and discussions. Oral presentation of a selected research topic. Completion of all mandatory course activities
Responsible Department/Equivalent
Department of Biosystems and Technology
Supplementary information
Other Information
The course is interdisciplinary and suitable for PhD students in animal science, biology, veterinary science, and related fields. The course can be either hybrid, fully online or campus-based according to demands.