How well-designed free farrowing systems can protect piglet welfare while improving sow welfare in pig production.
The farrowing crate represents a welfare trade-off between sow restriction and piglet safety that is increasingly solvable through good pen design. Sows in crates are prevented from nest-building, turning, and engaging in maternal behaviors, causing significant welfare compromise. Well-designed free farrowing systems with appropriate bedding, escape areas for piglets, and sow selection for temperament achieve crushing rates comparable to crates while dramatically improving sow welfare. The economic argument for crates based on piglet survival is compelling in poorly designed free farrowing systems but weakens significantly with appropriate infrastructure. Investment in free farrowing system design represents a welfare improvement that progressive producers are demonstrating is commercially viable.