Research into positive welfare indicators in pigs moves beyond preventing suffering to measuring positive experiences like play, exploration, and relaxation.
Traditional welfare science focused on preventing negative states like pain and fear. The positive welfare movement recognizes that the absence of suffering is insufficient. Pigs in good welfare show play behavior, explore their environments eagerly, and show relaxed body postures. Providing opportunities for positive experiences through enrichment, social engagement, and outdoor access creates welfare beyond mere survival.