Farm Animal Welfare

Pig Pain Recognition: Advances in Grimace Scales

How the Piglet Grimace Scale and other validated tools are improving pain assessment in pigs.

Key Facts

Pain in pigs has historically been underassessed due to limited validated assessment tools
The Piglet Grimace Scale (PGS) provides a reliable, rapid method for assessing acute pain in young pigs
Ear position, eye appearance, and facial muscle tension are key indicators in validated pain scales
Regular stockperson training in pain recognition significantly improves welfare intervention rates

Welfare Considerations

Validated pain assessment tools have transformed the evidence base for pig welfare intervention. Their widespread adoption by stockpersons and vets is the critical next step - a tool unused provides no welfare benefit. Investment in training and culture change is essential.

What You Can Do

Advocate for pain scale training as a mandatory element of pig farming qualifications
Support producers who use validated pain assessment tools in routine welfare monitoring
Choose pork from welfare schemes that include pain assessment standards