Abstract: Adjusting Pen Design

Type and Average of Pigs on the Farm

The farm maintains approximately 960 grower-finishers.

Farming System

Not specified.

Description and Evaluation of the Good Practice

On this farm, the pens for growing pigs have been progressively adjusted to improve welfare. Initially, a wall between two pens was removed to create a larger space, giving pigs the opportunity to move away from "trouble" and other pigs rather than being forced into conflict with pen mates. This made the pigs calmer, but not as much as desired. The wall was therefore reinstalled at an angle, creating hiding places for the pigs while still allowing all animals to be seen from the hallway. The pen still consists of two original pens, but with more hiding places created by the angled partition. From 30 kg until slaughter, the available space per pig is 1.0 m².

Farm Context

• Pigs: The larger pen combined with the angled wall allows pigs to escape and hide from pen mates, supporting reduced stress and better gut health alongside straw and roughage. Pigs are mixed when transported to the farm.
• Environmental Enrichment: Straw is provided twice a day from arrival, for 7–10 days depending on use.
• Housing and Management Characteristics: Space available is 1.0 m²/pig from 30 kg to slaughter. The flooring is fully slatted. The angled wall is positioned so that all pigs remain visible from the hallway.
• Management Practices: It is considered important for staff to remain calm when working with the pigs, supporting a settled environment in the pen.

Economic Analysis

This practice involves rearranging existing pen partitions rather than new construction, so the direct cost is minimal.

Environmental Analysis

As the practice does not change the flooring type or manure system, no significant environmental impact has been reported.

Replicable Benefits and Relevance for Other EU Countries

This good practice can be implemented in all pens housing growing pigs, by ensuring sufficient space per pig and designing the pen layout to meet the animals' behavioural needs.