Farm Animal Welfare

Sow Reproductive Welfare Management

Comprehensive management of reproductive welfare in breeding sows, including body condition, farrowing support, and group housing transition.

Key Facts

Sows in intensive systems may produce 25-30 piglets per year, straining their physiology
Hyperprolific sow genetics can compromise both sow and piglet welfare
Farrowing crate confinement prevents natural nest-building behaviour
Sow longevity has declined as selection intensifies for litter size
Group housing for pregnant sows is required in the EU but enforcement varies

Welfare Considerations

Reproductive welfare in sows is under increasing pressure from genetic selection for high litter size. Sows physiologically stressed by frequent large litters have reduced longevity and elevated disease risk. Balancing productive demands with sow welfare requires attention to genetics, nutrition, housing, and farrowing support practices.

What You Can Do

Choose pork from producers committed to group sow housing
Support advocacy for sow longevity to be included in breeding programme goals
Advocate for enforcement of EU pregnant sow group housing legislation