Pigs are highly curious and novelty-seeking animals whose welfare is significantly improved by appropriate environmental enrichment, beyond the minimum substrate requirements.
Pig welfare in commercial housing systems is significantly compromised by environmental impoverishment that prevents expression of the species highly motivated exploratory and play behaviour. Without adequate enrichment, pigs redirect behaviour toward pen mates, causing aggression, tail biting, and chronic stress. Evidence consistently shows that enriched environments produce pigs with lower aggression, fewer stereotypies, and better immune function. Enrichment novelty is important — pigs habituate quickly to static objects, making rotation and variety essential. The welfare investment in enrichment provision pays dividends in reduced injury, medication use, and mortality.