There are many different alternative systems to the conventional farrowing crates. They vary in how much space they offer the pigs and whether they are free farrowing or have temporary confinement possibilities. Terminology is important and this infographic is designed to offer some clarity.
Zero-Crating Pens
These pen designs include PigSAFE, Danish Free Farrower, Swiss Free Farrowers, Welcon, Comfort Pen, The Maternity Ring and simple pens.
Temporary crating
These include systems where there are options to temporarily crate the sow, such as the 360° Farrower, the SWAP and other swing-side crates.
Group systems
These include multi-suckle options where the sows and litters can be group housed.
Outdoor systems
The sow and litter farrow in outdoor huts or arks within an outdoor farrowing paddock.
Kennel and run systems
These include options with indoor huts or pens that have outdoor access to a run and include indoor Solari systems.
Specific pen features
Find detailed information about different specific pen design features.
