Concrete slatted floors are standard in intensive pig production but cause significant welfare problems including foot injuries, joint disease, and loss of natural behavior.
Concrete flooring welfare harm is systematic across intensive pig production. Foot and leg problems causing lameness are among the most prevalent welfare problems in commercial pigs, directly attributable to floor substrate. Straw-based deep litter systems address multiple welfare needs simultaneously: injury prevention, thermal comfort, rooting opportunity, and enrichment. The transition from concrete to alternative substrates requires investment but delivers substantial welfare benefits.