Farm Animal Welfare

Pig Respiratory Disease and Welfare

Porcine respiratory disease complex is one of the most common and welfare-significant disease challenges in commercial pig production.

Key Facts

PRDC involves multiple pathogens including PRRSV, Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, and secondary bacteria
Poor ventilation, high stocking density, and stress predispose pigs to PRDC
Pigs with PRDC show reduced growth, coughing, and labored breathing
Vaccines for major viral and bacterial pathogens reduce disease burden significantly
Air filtration systems can prevent PRRSV entry into high-health herds

Welfare Considerations

Respiratory disease causes genuine suffering including labored breathing, fever, and reduced appetite. Prevention through good ventilation, appropriate stocking density, and vaccination protects welfare while reducing antibiotic use.

What You Can Do

Advocate for ventilation standards in pig welfare certification
Support vaccination programs that reduce respiratory disease burden in commercial pigs
Choose pork from farms with documented respiratory health monitoring programs