Cannibalism in Growing Pigs: Effects of Tail Docking and Housing System on Behavior, Performance and Immune Function

One hundred and twenty pigs were used to evaluate the effects of housing indoors on concrete slats or outside in dirt lots on tail biting, weight gains, behavior and immune function for pigs with intact tails or with tails docked. Pig performance was largely not influenced by treatments, even when cannibalism was found. When pigs began biting tails in particular pens, many pigs’ tails were not curled and up against their body. Cannibalism was found both in dirt lots and in confinement, however the incidence of cannibalism was greater among confined pigs. Some immune measures indicated pigs with tails (regardless of housing system) were immunosuppressed. At this time, pig well being is predicted to be the greatest if their tails are docked.