The farrowing period — when sows give birth and nurse piglets — is one of the most contentious welfare issues in pig production, involving a direct conflict between sow and piglet welfare.
The farrowing crate represents a genuine ethical dilemma: it prevents piglet deaths but causes severe restriction and frustration for the sow. Sows are highly motivated to perform nesting behaviour before farrowing and are prevented from doing so in crates. The frustration of nesting motivation causes measurable distress. Free farrowing solutions that protect piglets while allowing sow movement exist but require higher management intensity and skill. The welfare of both sow and piglets can be achieved, but not through the current conventional system.