Farm Animals

Pig Enrichment for Play Behaviour

Play behaviour in pigs is a reliable indicator of positive welfare states, and enrichment that promotes play improves both welfare and helps prevent pathological behaviours.

Key Facts

Piglets play from the first days of life, with play fighting and locomotor play prominent
Adult pigs also play when enriched and comfortable, indicating positive affect
Play decreases or disappears under conditions of chronic stress or pain
Rooting substrates, hanging ropes and novel objects all stimulate play in appropriately designed pens
Play behaviour scoring is proposed as a positive welfare indicator in farm assessment frameworks

Welfare Considerations

Play is not merely a sign of health but a component of positive welfare in its own right. Designing pig environments that promote play represents a genuine welfare enhancement beyond simply avoiding suffering.

What You Can Do

Support farms that actively measure and promote positive welfare indicators including play
Advocate for positive welfare indicators in farm assurance scheme assessments
Ask producers whether their welfare assessment includes positive indicators such as play behaviour