T he natural life span of a pig is 10-150 years. Sows spend at least two thirds of their life in pregnancy. Farrowing crates are metal crates barley larger than the sow, giving no room for turning around. Any attempt to movement means the sow will unavoidably rub herself against the crate bars causing sores, abrasions and swellings. Lameness, other leg, back and hip problems are common .
Sows also show stereotypic behaviour such as gnawing and biting stall bars .
The strong instinct to build a nest out of leaves, grass or straw is completely frustrated. The floors are concrete or slatted and do not have any bedding. Intensification has lead to increased disease problems, particularly amongst piglets. Viral pneumonia, meningitis, swine vesicular disease, blue-ear disease and scours are some of many diseases that can affect pigs. Some male piglets are also castrated without anaesthetic.