Fur farming is the practice of breeding and raising certain types of wild, fur-bearing animals in captivity on farms to harvest their fur for use in clothing and accessories. The practice of raising animals for their pelts has ancient roots, with evidence of red fox breeding in Iron Age Scotland (around 800 CE). Still, modern large-scale fur farming for mink and other animals gained traction much later: early recorded mink breeding in North America dates to the 1860s, evolving from traditional wild trapping to systematic captive breeding for the growing fashion industry. Fur farms came about as a commercial response to a high demand for fur, initially stemming from the need to ensure a steady and controllable supply of high-quality pelts when wild sources became unpredictable or insufficient. The practice allowed for a more efficient and consistent production process compared to traditional wild trapping. It is the primary source of fur for the global fur trade, accounting for approximately 85% of all fur sold. The most commonly farmed animals are mink and foxes, but chinchillas, raccoon dogs (tanuki), and rabbits are also raised for their fur. Animals are typically housed in small wire-mesh cages within large sheds. Animal welfare organizations report that these conditions prevent animals from engaging in natural behaviors such as running, digging, or swimming (for semi-aquatic mink), leading to stress, behavioral problems (e.g., self-mutilation), and health issues. Animals are usually killed after their first molt, when their fur quality is at its highest. Standard methods, intended to avoid damage to the pelt, include gassing (carbon monoxide), electrocution (often anal electroshock for foxes), and neck-breaking. After pelting, the animal carcasses are typically used for pet food, animal feed, fertilizer, or other industrial products.
Although the EU was historically a major producer, many countries have banned or strictly regulated the practice. China is currently the world's largest producer and importer of fur products. The practice is highly controversial and is criticized by animal rights groups for its inherent cruelty, public health risks (e.g., zoonotic diseases such as COVID-19 outbreaks on mink farms), and negative environmental impacts from waste and the use of chemicals in processing.