Farm Animal Welfare

Pig Welfare and Pain Recognition Tools

Pain recognition in pigs uses validated tools including facial action coding and grimace scales. Improving stockperson training in pain recognition significantly reduces unaddressed pain.

Key Facts

The Piglet Pain Scale and Pig Grimace Scale are validated pain assessment tools
Behavioural indicators of pain include posture changes, reduced exploration, and vocalisation
Lameness scoring identifies pigs with musculoskeletal pain requiring treatment
Stockperson training in pain recognition significantly improves treatment rates
Remote camera systems enable continuous pain monitoring in modern facilities

Welfare Considerations

Pain recognition is the gateway to pain management. Without reliable identification of pigs in pain, treatment cannot be provided. Investment in stockperson training and validated pain assessment tools closes this welfare gap.

What You Can Do

Support farms using validated pain assessment tools in daily management
Advocate for pain recognition training to be mandatory in pig farm accreditation
Learn about pig pain indicators and assessment tools
Choose welfare-certified pork from farms with verified pain management protocols