Farm Animal Welfare

Pig Gestation Group Housing Transition Management

The transition from individual stalls to group housing for pregnant sows requires careful management to prevent aggression and welfare problems.

Key Facts

EU law banned sow gestation stalls beyond 4 weeks after service since 2013
Initial mixing of sows triggers fighting to establish dominance hierarchy
Mixing at feeding time or after fasting increases aggression intensity
Electronic sow feeders allow individual feeding in group housing
Providing hiding places and visual barriers reduces fight intensity

Welfare Considerations

Group housing is a significant welfare improvement for sows compared to individual confinement, but the transition period involves real welfare risks from aggression. Careful management of mixing timing, feed provision, and space design is essential to ensure that the benefits of group housing are fully realised without injury.

What You Can Do

Support welfare standards specifying group housing transition protocols
Advocate for adequate space allowances in group housing regulations
Share best practice resources on sow group housing with producers