Farm Animals

Pig Chronic Pain Recognition and Management

Chronic pain in pigs from lameness, joint disease, and injuries is often underrecognised, with welfare implications for millions of animals in production systems.

Key Facts

Lameness affects 5-10% of sows in many intensive systems and causes chronic pain
Joint disease in fast-growing pigs often goes untreated due to high stocking numbers
The Pig Grimace Scale is validated for assessing pain intensity in pigs
NSAIDs like meloxicam are effective for pig pain but rarely used preventively
Pain recognition requires staff training in species-specific behavioural cues

Welfare Considerations

Chronic pain is among the most significant welfare problems in commercial pig farming. Recognising and treating it must become standard practice.

What You Can Do

Train stockpeople in pig pain recognition using validated scales
Implement routine analgesic use for known painful procedures
Investigate and address lameness as a priority welfare intervention
Advocate for pain management standards in farm assurance schemes