Livestock

Chronic Pain Recognition in Pigs: Welfare Assessment 2026

Recognising chronic pain in pigs is a significant welfare challenge since pigs are prey species that conceal pain, and validated assessment tools are essential for stockperson training.

Key Facts

Pigs are prey species with evolved behavioural strategies that mask pain expression
Chronic musculoskeletal pain is common in sows from flooring-related injuries and reproductive wear
The Porcine Grimace Scale has been validated for acute pain but less so for chronic conditions
Behavioural indicators of chronic pain include reduced activity, altered posture and social withdrawal

Welfare Considerations

Unrecognised chronic pain in pigs represents a significant welfare burden in commercial production. Key welfare priorities include training stockpersons in species-appropriate pain recognition, implementing systematic welfare checks, using validated pain assessment tools, providing adequate analgesia for surgical procedures, and improving flooring to prevent joint injuries.

What You Can Do

Train farm staff in pig pain recognition using validated tools
Implement regular systematic welfare assessments on commercial pig farms
Ensure all surgical procedures in pigs include appropriate pre- and post-operative analgesia
Advocate for research funding for chronic pain assessment tools in pigs