Partially or fully slatted concrete floors are standard in intensive pig production because they facilitate manure management. However, slatted floors cause hoof and leg problems (claw lesions, joint inflammation) from abrasive surfaces and lack of cushioning. Research documents significantly higher lameness rates in fully slatted compared to bedded systems.
Solid concrete floors with slurry channels require manual or mechanical cleaning. They provide better foot support than slats but become welfare-compromising if wet and contaminated. Regular cleaning maintains hygiene and reduces foot health problems. Rubber mats on solid floors significantly improve comfort and reduce lameness.
Straw-bedded systems provide thermal comfort, rooting material, and welfare-positive behavioral opportunities. Research consistently shows pigs on straw have lower cortisol, better foot health, more positive behavioral states, and less tail biting. The primary challenge is slurry system incompatibility requiring solid floor management.
Rubber flooring and rubber-coated slats significantly improve foot health and comfort compared to bare concrete slats. Research shows rubber flooring reduces claw lesion prevalence, increases lying time, and reduces aggression associated with discomfort. Capital cost is higher than concrete but welfare and productivity benefits are documented.
Sow and piglet flooring in farrowing accommodations requires careful design: anti-slip surfaces for sow movement, warm creep areas for piglets, and hygiene maintenance. Piglets on cold, wet floors face hypothermia risk. Heated floor panels in creep areas dramatically improve piglet welfare and survival.
EU Pig Welfare Directive (2001/88/EC) requires unobstructed floor areas with drainage and specifies minimum floor space per pig. Fully slatted floors are not prohibited but space requirements and enrichment mandates limit their welfare impact. The proposed EU animal welfare legislation revision (2024) is considering stronger flooring welfare standards.