wholeanimal

Wholeanimal is a term used in philosophy, biology, and animal welfare debates to denote the unit of analysis that treats an animal as a complete, integrated organism rather than as a collection of parts or processes. The term signals a holistic approach that aims to account for the organism’s physiology, development, behavior, ecology, and, where possible, subjective experiences. It is not a taxonomic category or a formal scientific rank.

Origin and usage: The word is a portmanteau of “whole” and “animal” and is used primarily in interdisciplinary discussions about welfare, ethics, and science. In welfare science, wholeanimal assessments aim to synthesize multiple endpoints—health, behavior, environment, and mental state—into an overall welfare judgment rather than checking isolated indicators. In ethical discussions, the concept supports considering the animal as a whole being with morally relevant interests extending across its life history and social context.

Implications and applications: The wholeanimal perspective promotes integrated considerations in policy, practice, and research. It encourages welfare standards that address living conditions, social relationships, and environmental complexity, rather than focusing solely on single physiological metrics. In conservation and veterinary contexts, it underscores the importance of treating the organism in its ecological and behavioral entirety.

Limitations and critique: Critics note that holistic assessments can be difficult to operationalize, costly, and susceptible to subjective weighting of different endpoints. The approach may risk underemphasizing specific, measurable aspects of health or biology if not carefully designed.

See also: animal welfare, holistic approach, welfare assessment, animal ethics, sentience.