Farmed Animals

Sow Welfare in Commercial Pig Production

Breeding sows face significant welfare challenges including confinement, repeated pregnancies, and chronic health problems.

Key Facts

Sows in farrowing crates cannot turn around for typically five weeks per litter
Gestation stalls for pregnant sows have been banned in the EU since 2013 but persist elsewhere
Sows typically produce two litters per year until culled at 3-4 years of age
Lameness and shoulder sores are common welfare problems in breeding sows
Group housing for pregnant sows allows movement but requires careful management

Welfare Considerations

Breeding sows are subjected to repeated cycles of pregnancy and lactation in conditions that often severely restrict movement. The welfare cost of intensive sow production is enormous given that sows are among the most intelligent and socially complex farm animals. Phasing out confinement systems and improving group housing management are essential welfare priorities.

What You Can Do

Choose pork from farms that have eliminated sow stalls and farrowing crates
Support campaigns for global bans on sow confinement systems
Reduce pork consumption or switch to certified higher-welfare alternatives
Advocate for improved farrowing system alternatives that protect piglets without confining sows