Pigs have complex cognitive and social needs that standard intensive systems fail to meet, leading to stereotypic behaviour, aggression and compromised welfare.
Pigs denied enrichment develop oral stereotypies (chain chewing, bar biting) and show evidence of chronic frustration and depression-like states. They display pessimistic cognitive biases in judgement tasks. Enrichment with rooting substrate, novel objects and foraging opportunities dramatically improves welfare indicators including play behaviour and positive social interaction.