Among the patients admitted to the Clinic for Ruminants of the University of Munich, a considerable number has >>incidental<< findings which indicate impairment of animal welfare. In most cases the problems could have been avoided or reduced by adequate housing and husbandry, prophylactic measures and systematic surveillance of the animals. The associated increase in profitability would probably outweigh the increase in expenses. The findings are described, discussed, and measures for improvement are pointed out.