Welfare Science

Pig Welfare and Welfare and Species Comparison 2026

Comparing pig welfare with other farmed species reveals relative progress and persistent challenges across global agriculture.

Key Facts

Pig welfare legislation is more advanced than poultry welfare legislation in most jurisdictions
Fish welfare receives far less attention and funding than mammalian welfare despite larger numbers
Pig sentience is better understood than many other farmed species due to decades of research
Cattle welfare certification is ahead of pig welfare certification in some markets
Comparative welfare analysis reveals priorities for welfare advocacy across species

Welfare Considerations

Cross-species welfare comparison ensures advocacy resources are directed to where they can achieve the greatest good. Understanding comparative welfare needs informs strategic decision-making.

What You Can Do

Engage with cross-species welfare comparisons when setting advocacy priorities
Support organisations addressing the most neglected farmed animal welfare issues
Advocate for welfare standards for species including fish and invertebrates that lag behind mammalian welfare