In just a few months, an impressive 8,000 OneKind supporters have emailed the Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity, Jim Fairlie, urging the Scottish Government to consult on phasing out farrowing crates for mother pigs. 

The Scottish Government recently consulted on phasing out cages for laying hens and its response is expected shortly. However, this consultation did not include farrowing crates for mother pigs, despite a commitment in their 2021-2022 Programme for Government to address this issue. 

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What is the Scottish Government’s position? 

In response to the open letter co-ordinated by OneKind and signed by 9 organisations, the Minister confirmed that the Scottish Government ‘remain committed’ to consult on phasing out farrowing crates for pigs.  

But when is due course? It has been years since the Government first committed to consult on phasing out farrowing crates. 

Our dedicated supporters have been contacting the Minister to highlight the welfare concerns associated with farrowing crates and to show their support for phasing out these inhumane cages as soon as possible.  

What’s wrong with farrowing crates? 

Lack of Mobility 

Sows confined in farrowing crates cannot turn around or move freely. This lack of mobility can lead to physical problems such as muscle atrophy, joint issues, and sores from constant contact with the crate’s hard surfaces. 

Psychological Distress 

Pigs are intelligent and social animals that naturally engage in behaviors such as rooting, exploring, and socializing. The confinement in farrowing crates prevents sows from expressing these natural behaviors, leading to frustration and psychological distress.  

Maternal Instincts 

In the wild, sows build nests for their piglets and exhibit strong maternal behaviors. Farrowing crates deny them the opportunity to perform these natural nesting behaviors, which can be highly stressful for the animals. The inability to care for their young in a natural manner can lead to increased stress and anxiety. 

What can I do? 

It’s crucial that we continue to demonstrate the public support for a ban on farrowing crates in Scotland and keep the momentum going.  

We have made it easy to help by providing a pre-written email you can send to the Scottish Government, urging them to consult on phasing out farrowing crates.

Send an email 

Please take a moment to send this email and make a difference!