A comparison of dry sow housing systems on the behaviour and occurrence of lameness in gestating gilts

Two studies were conducted to compare the effects of dry sow housing systems on the behaviour and occurrence and severity of lameness in gestating gilts. The three housing systems examined were: locked-stall (LS), stall-pen (SP) and straw (S). Housing systems differed in the level of confinement, individual or group housing, and provision of straw bedding. LS gilts were highly confined, individually housed gilts in standard gestation stalls. SP gilts were housed in groups of 4 in stalls on concrete flooring with access to a slatted exercise area. S gilts were kept in groups of 8-16 animals, and were housed for the latter half of gestation in larger pens that were deeply bedded with straw.; The aim of the first trial was to examine the postures assumed and behaviours performed by 61 gestating gilts.; The aim of the second study was to evaluate lameness in 73 gestating gilts. Lameness was assessed using a scoring system adapted from Main et al. (2001). (Abstract shortened by UMI.)...