Farm Animal Welfare

Pig Sow Longevity and Lifetime Welfare

Sow longevity and lifetime welfare are increasingly recognised as important sustainability and ethical indicators in commercial pig production.

Key Facts

Commercial sows are typically culled after 3-5 litter cycles due to reduced reproductive performance
Premature culling is often driven by lameness, reproductive failure, and prolapse
Longer-lived sows have better welfare outcomes over their lifetime when in good health
Genetic selection and housing design can improve sow longevity indicators
Welfare-based culling decisions that prevent protracted suffering are a positive outcome of good stockmanship

Welfare Considerations

Short sow lifespans reflect the intensity of reproductive demands placed on commercial sows. Improving sow longevity through better housing, genetic selection for robustness, and proactive health management serves both welfare and sustainability goals. Ensuring that culling decisions prioritise welfare rather than purely economic criteria is essential to responsible sow management.

What You Can Do

Support pig welfare programmes that include sow longevity as a key indicator
Advocate for sow housing standards that promote health and longevity
Learn about the relationship between sow longevity and animal welfare outcomes