Gestation crates confine pregnant sows in spaces barely larger than their bodies. The welfare evidence against this practice has driven bans in many jurisdictions.
Gestation crates are among the clearest examples of industrial agriculture prioritizing operational convenience over basic animal welfare. A pregnant pig who cannot turn around, lie down comfortably, or express any natural behavior for weeks or months is experiencing a form of physical and psychological confinement that is widely recognized as cruel. The evidence that sows in gestation crates suffer from chronic stress, physical deterioration, and behavioral despair is extensive and consistent. The industry's defense - that crates protect sows from aggression and make management easier - acknowledges the welfare problem implicitly while prioritizing economic factors. The global trend toward phasing out gestation crates reflects a growing consensus that this practice is unjustifiable.