The finishing phase from approximately 30 kg to slaughter weight represents the longest welfare period for commercial pigs and requires specific management.
Finishing pig welfare encompasses the full range of needs across the longest production phase. Space allowance adequacy determines the degree of natural behavior expression possible. Flooring type affects both foot health and ability to perform rooting and lying in natural postures. Environmental enrichment provision is legally required but quality and accessibility vary enormously. Social disruption from group mixing at stage transitions causes aggression. Thermal comfort management including appropriate ventilation in summer and insulation in winter affects resting behavior. Monitoring for early signs of tail biting is the most important welfare vigilance requirement as outbreaks can escalate to severe welfare crisis within hours. Regular slaughter inspection data on bruising and lesions provides welfare feedback to farms.