Farrowing Crates

SPCA supports a move towards a farrowing system that protects the welfare of both the sow and the piglets. SPCA opposes the use of farrowing crates in their current state because of the negative impacts to the physical, health, and behavioural needs of both sow and piglets.

SPCA advocates that all pigs should be reared in small, stable life-long groups where natural weaning can take place. If pigs are not kept in a free range system, farrowing and lactating sows should be kept in free-farrowing pens with manipulable material for nesting and bedding. The system must function in the best interests of the sow and her piglets.