Space allowance can impact many areas of pork production including social interaction, behaviour, stress and productivity. Often weaner pigs are given less space allowance due to their size but this may not be adequate. Crowding occurs near the end of the nursery phase as the piglets are at their largest size. In late nursery, overlying is not normally done by the pigs and more normal behaviours are seen with a greater space allowance. Having higher space allowance showed an increase in average daily gain, with lower gains seen in smaller pens. The space allowance recommended by the Code of Practice is accurate at k = 0.0335. Proper space allowances are needed to avoid welfare issues, reduced gains and behavioural problems.
Pigs in Space (full article)
