Farm Animals

Pigs and Cognitive Enrichment Science

Research on cognitive enrichment for pigs and how mental stimulation improves welfare in commercial farming systems.

Key Facts

Pigs have cognitive abilities comparable to dogs and young children
Cognitive enrichment reduces stress hormones and stereotypic behaviours
Novel objects, foraging substrates, and problem-solving devices are effective
Social enrichment through stable group housing supports cognitive welfare
Positive cognitive bias is a welfare indicator associated with enrichment provision

Welfare Considerations

Pigs are cognitively sophisticated animals whose welfare requires not just physical resources but meaningful cognitive and social stimulation.

What You Can Do

Support farms using cognitive enrichment for pigs
Advocate for enrichment requirements in pig welfare legislation
Choose pork from farms with enrichment provision verified by welfare assurance