Farm Animal Welfare

Pig Welfare and Pain Recognition 2026

Advanced pig pain recognition in 2026 incorporates validated grimace scales, behavioural indicators, and emerging technology-based detection into practical tools for stockpeople and vets.

Key Facts

The Pig Grimace Scale has been validated and translated for use in multiple countries
Ear posture, tail position, and back arching are validated pain indicators in pigs
Automated facial expression analysis for pigs is in advanced research development
Lameness scoring in pigs remains underutilised despite validated tools being available
Training stockpeople in pain recognition produces measurable welfare improvements within months

Welfare Considerations

Advanced pig pain recognition in 2026 provides stockpeople with practical tools to identify pain across its range from acute to chronic. The combination of validated grimace scales, behavioural indicators, and emerging automated detection creates a comprehensive pain recognition system. The welfare benefit depends on this recognition triggering appropriate pain management - recognition without treatment provides no welfare improvement.

What You Can Do

Support stockperson training in pig pain recognition using validated tools
Advocate for pain management protocols to accompany pain recognition training
Choose pork from farms using validated pain assessment and treatment protocols