The transition from individual gestation crates to group housing for sows represents one of the most significant farmed animal welfare reforms in recent decades, with successes and ongoing challenges.
Group housing represents a genuine welfare improvement for pregnant sows over gestation crates — when implemented well. Sows in group pens can move freely, interact socially, and express normal behaviours including rooting and exploration. However, poorly managed group systems create different welfare problems: aggression during mixing, bullying of subordinate animals from food access, and floor injuries on inadequate substrate. Best-practice group housing uses stable groups established early, electronic sow feeding to ensure all individuals eat adequately, appropriate space allowances, and straw bedding that provides rooting and cushioning. The welfare gain from gestation crate elimination is significant and well-evidenced.