Farm Animal Welfare

Sow Reproductive Welfare Management

Reproductive management of sows has profound welfare implications across the breeding cycle, from mating through gestation, farrowing, and lactation.

Key Facts

Sow reproductive lifespan averages 3-4 years in commercial systems before culling
Wean-to-service interval affects sow body condition and subsequent reproductive welfare
Lameness is a leading cause of premature sow culling after poor reproductive performance
Electronic sow feeding systems enable individual sow monitoring in group housing
Sow longevity is increasingly recognised as a welfare and sustainability metric

Welfare Considerations

Sow reproductive welfare encompasses the entire breeding cycle, with body condition, lameness, and social stress affecting both individual welfare and reproductive success. Investing in sow longevity through better management directly improves lifetime welfare outcomes.

What You Can Do

Support breeding and management programs that prioritise sow longevity
Learn about the welfare challenges across the sow reproductive cycle
Advocate for sow welfare monitoring as a component of pork production standards