The farrowing crate confines sows in a metal cage during farrowing and lactation to prevent crushing piglets. While reducing one welfare risk, it creates significant welfare problems for the sow and remains highly controversial.
Confinement prevents sows from expressing strong nesting instincts before farrowing, causing significant frustration. Inability to turn creates physical discomfort and increases pressure sore development. Sows in crates cannot respond normally to piglets and cannot move away from persistent nursing attempts, causing chronic stress. The bar-biting and repetitive movements observed in confined sows are indicators of psychological distress. Free farrowing with appropriate pen design can address crushing risk while substantially improving sow welfare.