Farm Animals

Pig Respiratory Disease Welfare Impact

Respiratory disease is a leading cause of suffering in intensive pig production, affecting growth and quality of life.

Key Facts

Enzootic pneumonia affects up to 70 percent of commercial pig herds
Pleuropneumonia can cause acute severe distress and mortality
Poor ventilation, high stocking density, and stress are key risk factors
Pigs with respiratory disease show reduced activity, appetite loss, and labored breathing
Vaccination and biosecurity reduce incidence but do not eliminate disease

Welfare Considerations

Respiratory disease causes significant suffering through breathlessness, fever, and chronic discomfort. Early detection and treatment are essential to minimize duration of suffering.

What You Can Do

Support farms with proven respiratory health programs
Advocate for ventilation standards that reduce disease risk
Choose pork certified by schemes requiring health monitoring