Sows confined in gestation crates cannot turn around for months, producing piglets into intensive systems.
Gestation crates severely restrict sow movement during pregnancy, causing physical deterioration including muscle atrophy, joint problems, and pressure sores. Behavioral evidence of chronic suffering includes bar biting, head weaving, and repeated rooting motions on concrete floors. Sows are highly intelligent animals with complex social and environmental needs that crates systematically deny. Group housing systems with adequate space are proven alternatives.