Welfare Science

Pig Welfare and Welfare and Animal Cognition 2026

Animal cognition research on pigs has revealed sophisticated mental capacities that strengthen the case for robust welfare protection.

Key Facts

Pigs demonstrate episodic memory, planning future actions based on past experiences
Social learning allows pigs to acquire food-finding skills by observing experienced herd mates
Pigs show emotional contagion - they become distressed when companions are distressed
Mirror self-recognition has been demonstrated in pigs in controlled experimental settings
Pig cognitive abilities exceed those of dogs in several standardised tests

Welfare Considerations

Pig cognitive capacities reveal a rich inner life that makes welfare protection an urgent ethical obligation. Sharing this science broadens the circle of welfare concern.

What You Can Do

Share pig cognition research with those who underestimate pig mental capacity
Support cognitive welfare as a distinct dimension of pig welfare assessment
Engage with the ethical implications of pig cognition for farming practices