An innovative way to improve sow comfort

A key factor of sow well-being includes companionship. Sows will lie with their backs to other sows or walls, facing outward. This position will make them feel safe. However, the surfaces on which they lie can often present challenges to their health and welfare.

Concrete flooring is commonly used in pig units because of its durability, resistance to wear and ease of cleaning. However, concrete’s hardness, abrasiveness and slipperiness can contribute to lameness.

Rubber flooring with a protective cushioning effect is an innovative alternative. It improves the welfare of group-housed sows during pregnancy, which could help extend the herd’s productive life, according to Julia Adriana Calderón Díaz.

Fill in and submit the form on the right to download our full article on “ensuring sow comfort for health and welfare in group housing systems” today to discover the pros and cons of the concrete floor, as well as the benefits of rubber floor.