Because this causes a reduction in their weight, farmers take oppressive remedial measures, like cutting off the pig's tails. All this brings about the Porcine Stress Syndrome , described as rigidity, blotchy skin, panting anxiety and sudden death . Most of them are artificially inseminated. Pregnancy lasts 16.5 weeks and a sow will give birth to between five and twenty-five piglets. 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.