Lameness is a major welfare concern in pigs, affecting both pain experience and productivity. Systematic recognition and early treatment improve outcomes for affected animals.
Lameness in pigs causes significant pain and distress, impairing ability to compete for food and water, rest comfortably, and engage in normal social behaviors. The stoic nature of pigs means lameness is often underdiagnosed until severely affected. Farm staff training in locomotion scoring enables earlier identification and treatment. Environmental modifications — including improved flooring, adequate space, and dry bedding — prevent many lameness cases. Prompt veterinary attention, pain management, and if necessary humane euthanasia of severely affected animals are essential welfare commitments.