Play behaviour in pigs is a positive welfare indicator that current intensive housing systems severely suppress, with implications for assessing farm welfare.
The suppression of play in intensive pig production indicates chronic welfare compromise. Pigs that cannot play are operating close to their stress ceiling, with little capacity for positive experiences. Play is important for social development and bonding in young pigs. Systems that actively support play through enrichment and space allow pigs to express positive emotions, which is increasingly recognised as a welfare goal alongside the absence of suffering.