Pigs are highly intelligent animals with cognitive abilities comparable to dogs and chimpanzees. Meeting their cognitive needs is central to modern pig welfare.
The cognitive sophistication of pigs creates a strong ethical obligation to provide them with mentally stimulating environments. Barren concrete environments typical of intensive production deny pigs opportunities for rooting, exploration, problem-solving, and social interaction, causing boredom, frustration, and abnormal repetitive behaviours (stereotypies). Enrichment materials including rooting substrates, novel objects, and foraging opportunities engage pig cognition and significantly improve welfare. Recognising pigs as cognitively complex individuals challenges purely production-oriented farming approaches and supports the case for higher welfare standards.