As we continue to push the boundaries of agricultural engineering, we uncover insights that challenge traditional methods. A recent study led by Shubham Bery and colleagues offers a profound look into how the very design of farrowing crates and the strategic use of heat lamps can significantly impact the welfare of sows, particularly regarding the occurrence of shoulder lesions.
Shoulder lesions, a major welfare concern and cause of premature sow culling, are not new to the industry. However, the findings from this study bring a fresh perspective on crate design and heat management that could redefine how we approach sow comfort and injury prevention.
What’s fascinating is how the smallest details—like the number of heat lamps and crate dimensions—can directly affect lesion formation. This study uncovered that higher-parity and low-weight sows are most at risk. The traditional stall design, paired with two heat lamps, posed the highest risk for shoulder lesions. On the flip side, expanded crate designs with the same heat lamp setup provided much-needed relief. It’s a reminder that crate design isn’t just about spatial efficiency—it’s about the well-being of our animals.
As an advocate for welfare-focused engineering, I find the results a call to action. The implications here are clear: we need to reconsider how heat is delivered in farrowing environments. Heat lamps are essential for piglet survival, but as temperatures rise near sows, so do the risks of shoulder lesions. By isolating heat more effectively to the piglets, and offering more space for the sow, we can make significant strides in animal welfare while maintaining the health of piglets.
Moreover, the findings about lying postures being less influential than previously thought opens up room for more research into other factors. It’s possible that we’ve only scratched the surface when it comes to understanding the full range of environmental variables at play.
The next step? Innovation in heating solutions. Maybe heating pads or radiant heat systems focused on the piglet area could replace the traditional reliance on overhead heat lamps. The research also signals an opportunity for more dynamic crate designs that consider both the physical and behavioral needs of sows during critical periods like farrowing and lactation.
The research led by Bery and his team has set the stage for a new wave of thought, one where sow welfare can coexist with productivity without compromise. We owe it to the sows to ensure that, as we care for their young, we don’t compromise their health in the process.
Let’s rethink crate design, not just for the efficiency it brings, but for the welfare it promises.
Link to the entire study here
