Farm Animals

Pig Welfare: Managing Large Litters

Large litter sizes in modern commercial pig genetics create welfare challenges for sow and piglets that require active management.

Key Facts

Scientific evidence guides best practice in this welfare area
Welfare improvements are achievable at reasonable cost
Public awareness and consumer choice drive positive welfare change
Every informed person strengthens the animal welfare movement

Welfare Considerations

Litter sizes exceeding 14-16 piglets exceed sow teat numbers and colostrum production capacity, requiring foster management, split suckling, and potentially milk supplementation to ensure all piglets receive adequate nutrition for welfare.

What You Can Do

Learn more about this welfare topic from scientific sources
Support organisations working on this welfare issue
Make informed choices that support better welfare outcomes
Share knowledge about animal welfare with others