Transitioning from individual gestation stalls to group housing for pregnant sows is one of the most significant welfare improvements in pig farming, but successful implementation requires careful management.
The transition from gestation stalls to group housing for pregnant sows represents one of the most important welfare improvements in commercial pig farming. Gestation stalls confine individual sows so tightly that they cannot turn around for most of their pregnancies, causing profound frustration, stereotypic behaviour, and musculoskeletal problems. Group housing allows sows to move freely and interact socially. However, mixing aggression during group formation is a significant welfare challenge that requires careful management including provision of adequate space, resources, and escape opportunities. Well-managed group housing systems deliver substantially better welfare than stall systems, but poor implementation can result in high aggression and injury.