Pen flooring type significantly affects pig welfare through foot health, cleanliness, injury risk, and behavioural opportunities. Evidence supports bedded systems over bare slatted concrete.
Flooring type is one of the most significant determinants of pig welfare in housed systems. Bare slatted concrete — economically efficient for waste management — is associated with higher rates of foot lesions, joint problems, and restricted natural behaviour. Deep straw bedding allows rooting, nest-building, and exploration that are fundamental pig motivations; it provides thermal comfort for resting; and it is associated with lower rates of lameness and skin lesions. The economic case for straw bedding includes reduced medical costs and potential premium pricing. The welfare case is clear: pigs on appropriate bedding have demonstrably better welfare across multiple dimensions.