Key points
- WOAH Chapter 7.13 calls for suitable, manipulable material that supports exploration, foraging and chewing.
- The chapter lists injuries, abnormal behaviour and handling responses among animal-based measures.
- A pen brief should specify access, replacement, cleanliness and who records observations.
A chewable object on its own is not a welfare plan. Match enrichment to pig behaviour, then check animal responses and upkeep in the actual pen.
What the source actually recommends
WOAH’s pig production chapter describes enrichment as an opportunity for normal exploration, rooting, biting and social behaviour. It recommends sufficient suitable material, with novelty to maintain interest. It also describes positive human contact and social enrichment. These are welfare recommendations from the cited 2024 chapter, not a new 2026 regulation or a claim that one object prevents tail biting.
Put the material into the pen plan
For a new or refurbished pen, mark where pigs can reach the material, how staff replenish or remove it, and whether it obstructs drinkers, gates or cleaning. Choose material and placement with the operator and veterinary adviser for the animals, floor and manure system involved. This is Zhengye’s design checklist, not a specification for every farm.
Observe pigs rather than counting devices
The same WOAH chapter lists injuries, tail biting, stereotypies, condition and handling response as measures to observe. Record the pen, date, animals observed, material condition and action taken when use declines or injuries rise. Compare observations over time without treating a single calm moment as proof of success.
Connect farm and downstream planning
Housing welfare starts on the farm, while delivery and slaughter facilities need their own handling plan. Share confirmed pen and animal-flow information when discussing a pig project; do not extrapolate housing observations into a promised processing capacity. Source checked on 14 October 2026. Local law and veterinary advice govern the actual installation.
Practical question
Is one hanging toy enough to demonstrate good pig welfare?
No. Check whether pigs can use suitable material, how it is maintained and what animal-based observations show.
Related equipment and planning resources
Sources and further reading
Sources checked: