Sows — female pigs kept for breeding — are among the most behaviourally deprived farm animals, typically confined in conditions that prevent almost all natural behaviour and cause chronic boredom and frustration.
Sows cycle through pregnancies, farrowing, and weaning continuously throughout their productive lives. Without environmental enrichment and social stimulation, the psychological suffering is profound. Stereotypic behaviours develop rapidly in barren environments and are reliable indicators of chronic frustration and stress. Providing straw, rooting opportunities, and social stability are low-cost interventions with documented welfare and productivity benefits that many producers remain reluctant to implement despite the evidence.