From a Jain perspective, ahimsa (non-harm) to animals includes their welfare. If a cow is not milked, she can suffer discomfort because milk builds up in the udders. Over time this can lead to health problems such as engorgement and a higher risk of infections like mastitis, which can affect her overall well-being and future health.

Key points:

• Cows produce milk after calving; if the milk is not removed, pressure and inflammation can occur in the udders.
• Not milking a dairy cow regularly can cause pain and health issues, and in severe cases can contribute to more serious problems that affect her life and fertility.
• In proper care, cows are managed to prevent distress: they are milked to relieve pressure, given clean housing, good nutrition, and medical attention as needed.

Ethically, many Jain practitioners emphasize kindness and minimizing suffering, so fair treatment and regular care (including appropriate milking practices and veterinary oversight) align with dharma.