Gestation crates confining pregnant sows in spaces too small to turn around have been banned or restricted in many jurisdictions following widespread welfare concerns.
The campaign against gestation crates has been one of the most successful animal welfare reform movements of recent decades. Evidence of severe frustration, muscle atrophy, bone weakness, and psychological distress in crated sows drove public concern and regulatory action. The transition to group housing requires management changes but is well-established as commercially viable. Continued advocacy is needed to ensure commitments translate into practice.