Scientific research into pig cognition and emotional states provides evidence that current welfare standards are inadequate for animals with this level of sophistication.
The growing evidence for pig cognitive sophistication and emotional complexity has direct and significant implications for welfare standards. Animals that experience positive and negative emotional states, have memories, learn socially, and may be self-aware have welfare needs that far exceed what typical commercial production systems provide. A pig with the cognitive capacity to anticipate events, remember past experiences, and potentially recognize itself in a mirror is an animal for whom boredom, frustration, social isolation, and chronic physical discomfort constitute particularly significant suffering. The gap between pig cognitive reality and welfare standard assumptions is enormous and demands urgent attention.