Free farrowing pen design is critical to achieving both sow welfare and manageable piglet mortality as the sector transitions away from farrowing crates.
Free farrowing pen design is the critical variable determining whether welfare improvements for sows come at the cost of increased piglet mortality. Well-designed pens with adequate space, appropriate floor texture, and sloped walls significantly reduce crushing risk while allowing sow freedom of movement. Straw provision enables nest-building behaviour that is a highly motivated pre-farrowing sow need. Research comparing pen designs has identified features that simultaneously improve sow welfare and maintain piglet survival. Welfare-focused transition from farrowing crates requires investment in evidence-based pen design rather than simply removing crates from existing infrastructure.