The global shift away from individual gestation crates toward group housing for pregnant sows represents one of the most significant farm animal welfare improvements of recent decades.
Gestation crates represent one of the most welfare-compromising intensive farming practices, preventing sows from performing basic natural behaviours including turning around, lying comfortably, and socialising. The transition to group housing systems addresses these concerns but requires thoughtful implementation. Key challenges include managing aggression at introduction and feeding times, which can be mitigated through space allowance, barrier design, electronic feeding, and mixing management protocols. Group-housed sows show fewer stereotypic behaviours such as bar-biting and greater opportunities for rooting, exploration, and social interaction. Enhanced welfare standards for pregnant sows require ongoing monitoring and stockperson training alongside system changes.