Farrowing crates confine sows during and after birth, preventing them from turning around or engaging in nest-building behavior, causing significant welfare harm.
Farrowing crates prevent one of the most strongly motivated behaviors in the sow birthing cycle — nest building. Sows deprived of this opportunity show repetitive frustrated behaviors and elevated stress. Alternative loose housing systems with properly designed guardian rails can achieve comparable piglet survival rates while allowing sows to express natural behaviors. The welfare case for farrowing crate elimination is strong and alternatives are proven.