Gestation crates confine pregnant sows in spaces barely larger than their bodies, preventing almost all movement. Welfare science has driven significant reform, but the practice continues in many countries.
Gestation crates cause profound welfare harms. Sows are highly intelligent, social animals with strong motivations to explore, root, and interact with conspecifics. Continuous confinement in a space where they cannot turn around causes severe physical and psychological suffering — stereotypic behaviours such as bar-biting and repetitive movements are common indicators of frustration and distress. Physical health also suffers: muscle atrophy, urinary tract infections, and lameness are elevated in crated sows. The scientific consensus is clear that gestation crates represent a significant welfare problem. Group housing with enrichment provides substantially better welfare outcomes, though it requires careful management to prevent aggression.