Overview of innovations in farrowing systems that improve sow and piglet welfare.
Farrowing system innovation represents one of the most important welfare frontiers in pig farming. Conventional farrowing crates restrict sow movement severely, causing significant welfare compromise. Welfare-compatible loose farrowing systems have been developed and validated commercially. Neo-traditional systems provide sow movement with piglet mortality management features. Legislative and industry pressure for farrowing crate phase-out is growing. Consumer and retailer demands are driving market pull for welfare-compatible farrowing.