How to prevent tail biting in pig farms?

Many pig farmers are familiar with this problem, which is all the more widespread since systematic tail docking is now banned in the European Union.

Chewing is a normal behavior in pigs, resulting from a natural need to explore and manipulate their environment. It can also be associated with social interactions and the establishment of a hierarchy within a group of individuals.

However, this type of behavior can escalate and result in cannibalism. A bite that is too forceful can injure and draw blood, which excites the animals and attracts them to the injured pig. As the injuries are often located on the tail, we speak of tail biting, but they can appear on other parts of the body such as the ears.

The consequences can be serious for the attacked pigs, so it is important to understand in advance what could have triggered this type of aggressive behavior and limit the risk factors. Several elements must be taken into account, including the design of the pen, the humidity level, the diet, the density of the animals in the enclosures, boredom or even simply stress.

European regulations indicate that before docking tails, other preventive measures must be taken to prevent biting. As a first step, it is always wise to check the good conduct of the breeding and to check all the potential triggering factors. In addition to this, it is recommended to provide toys and other occupation objects to avoid boredom.

Our company decided to complete the range of existing solutions with a product that reduces not the boredom of animals but their stress. Formulated with cinnamon, it affects the pigs' sense of smell and reduces sources of excitement. Its effect is twofold: not only does it cover odors likely to generate stress, but it also has an immediate calming effect. It can be used to prevent biting but also to stop it if some animals have already been injured.

Want to know more? Discover our range of products specially designed to combat tail biting in pig farms.