Gestation crates confine pregnant pigs in spaces so small they cannot turn around. Reform is underway in many countries, but billions of pigs still live in these conditions.
Gestation crates represent one of the most significant welfare problems in modern animal agriculture. Pigs are highly intelligent, social animals with complex behavioral needs. Continuous confinement prevents nearly all natural behaviors — rooting, exploring, socializing, and even turning around. The resulting frustration, boredom, and physical discomfort produce lasting psychological harm measurable in elevated stress hormones and abnormal repetitive behaviors. Sows in crates also suffer musculoskeletal deterioration from lack of movement. The scientific consensus strongly favors group housing with enrichment as a welfare improvement, though transition requires investment and management changes. Consumer and corporate pressure has driven significant reform, demonstrating that advocacy works.