Farm Animals

Pig Gestation Sow Body Condition Management

Maintaining optimal body condition in gestating sows supports reproductive success, neonatal piglet survival and long-term sow welfare.

Key Facts

Sows are scored on body condition on a scale of 1-5, with 2.5-3.5 being optimal
Thin sows at farrowing have reduced milk production and higher neonatal mortality
Overweight sows are at higher risk of farrowing difficulties and leg problems
Individual electronic feeding in group housing allows targeted nutrition
Body condition scoring at service, mid-gestation and farrowing enables timely adjustment

Welfare Considerations

Body condition is a measurable proxy for sow welfare, linking nutritional management to reproductive and physical health outcomes. Regular scoring and adjusted feeding are practical interventions.

What You Can Do

Support farms implementing individual feeding systems in group gestation
Ask producers about body condition scoring protocols for their sow herd
Choose pork from welfare-certified farms with documented sow management standards