December 20, 2024
Our statement summarizes the scientific findings on the impact of fattening systems on pigs.
Our statement summarizes the scientific findings on the impact of fattening systems on pigs.
The Austrian organization Verein Gegen Tierfabriken (VGT) advocates for embedding compassion and respect for non-human animals in society. Expertise for Animals supports this mission by providing scientifically sound expertise.
Around 70% of all pigs in Austria are kept on fully slatted floors, with limited space and few enrichment opportunities. The legislative changes for new and renovated facilities introduced in January 2023 have done little to improve these conditions. VGT criticizes these housing conditions and demands an end to fully slatted floors.
The statement, titled "Assessment of the Compliance of Pig Fattening Standards (1st THVO) with the Animal Welfare Act", is freely accessible and can be downloaded here and from VGT’s website.
Please note: The statement is currently only available in German.
The hard and predominantly perforated flooring, insufficient space, and lack of enrichment materials lead to severe health and behavioral impairments. Pigs suffer from painful limb and skin lesions, as well as respiratory and digestive diseases.
Pigs are prevented from expressing their natural behaviors. In particular, exploratory behavior—closely linked to movement—and resting behavior are severely disrupted. This results in negative emotional states, such as frustration and stress.
Research findings confirm that these housing conditions cause pain, suffering, and harm to the animals. Housing on slatted floors, whether fully or partially, is a significant animal welfare concern.
The statement examines, based on scientific evidence, the impact of the revised housing standards on the animals. Slightly increased minimum space requirements, partially adapted flooring, and inadequate enrichment materials continue to negatively affect the animals.
From an animal welfare perspective, the statement highlights the health and behavioral consequences. The central question is whether the current housingstandards comply with the Austrian Animal Welfare Act.
The findings reflect the pain, suffering, and harm experienced by the animals, which contradict Austria’s Animal Welfare Act. Pig fattening remains a significant animal welfare issue.
The statement substantiates VGT's demands for the abolition of fully slatted floors and supports their campaign to finally put an end to this cruel practice.
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