Pig Farrowing Crate Welfare: The Case for Loose Farrowing Systems

Farrowing crates prevent sow movement to protect piglets from crushing, but cause significant welfare problems for the sow. The push for loose farrowing systems is gaining momentum.

Key Facts

Farrowing crates confine sows for around 4 weeks around farrowing and nursing
The crates prevent the sow from turning around - a severe restriction of natural behaviour
Sow mortality from crushing piglets increases in loose systems but can be managed with design
The UK committed to phasing out farrowing crates in 2020 but has repeatedly delayed implementation
Several European countries including Sweden and Switzerland have banned farrowing crates
Research shows modern loose farrowing systems with protective design can achieve low crushing rates

Welfare Considerations

Farrowing crate welfare involves a genuine ethical dilemma: the welfare of the sow confined in a crate versus the welfare risk of piglets crushed by a free-moving mother. Sows in crates cannot perform nesting behaviour before farrowing - a strongly motivated behaviour that, when prevented, causes significant frustration. Modern loose farrowing pen designs that guide sow movements and provide safe lying areas for piglets can substantially reduce crushing rates while allowing sow freedom. The delay in phasing out crates in the UK represents a failure to act on available welfare evidence.

What You Can Do

Buy pork certified as crate-free or RSPCA Assured
Support campaigns for a firm UK farrowing crate phase-out date
Donate to Compassion in World Farming pig welfare work
Ask supermarkets about their farrowing crate sourcing policies
Choose imported pork only from countries with equivalent or higher welfare standards