Gestation crates confine pregnant sows so tightly they cannot turn around, causing profound welfare problems that have led to bans in the EU, UK, and some US states.
Gestation crates prevent sows from expressing any natural behavior including turning, walking, or building a nest. The physical and psychological frustration of prolonged immobility causes stereotypies, skin lesions from rubbing on bars, and chronic muscle weakness. Studies show sows in well-managed group housing show better welfare indicators despite increased aggression risk during introduction. The global trend is firmly toward elimination of gestation crates, driven by welfare evidence and consumer concern.