K-State Study Targets Sow Aggression in Gestation

Researchers test dietary and environmental changes to mitigate aggressive interactions in group-housed sows.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Nutrition

Close-up detail of a textured agricultural enrichment block suspended in a clean, modern research pen for livestock. — Kansas State University researchers found that fiber-rich enrichment blocks and dietary adjustments significantly reduce aggressive behavior among group-housed sows during gestation. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Kansas State University researchers have identified specific dietary and environmental interventions that successfully reduce aggression in group-housed sows. The study focused on strategies to address rising physical injuries observed during the late gestation period.

Why it matters

Reducing aggressive behavior is critical for maintaining animal welfare and productivity, as producers have reported significant increases in vulva and body lesions as sows approach farrowing. These findings offer practical management tools for minimizing stress and physical harm in commercial settings.

The study included 1,500 sows and gilts to analyze feed and fiber impacts, alongside 952 animals monitored during magnesium supplementation trials. Researchers continue to investigate the prevalence of vulva lesions occurring as sows near farrowing.

The players

Kansas State University

This public research university located in Manhattan, Kansas, is a leading institution for agricultural and veterinary science education.

University of Missouri

This institution served as a collaborative research partner in the study of sow behavior and gestation management.

The details

Researchers monitored aggressive interactions such as biting, mounting, and pushing while tracking physiological stress and lesion markers. Findings revealed that increased feed, added fiber, and the use of suspended molasses and beet pulp-based enrichment blocks helped minimize total aggressive bouts.

Late gestation is the primary period of concern for sow aggression.
November 19, 2026 is the scheduled date for the K-State Swine Day presentation.

Health Landscape

This study follows the precedent established by the K-State Swine Day annual research program to disseminate practical livestock management solutions. These findings extend the broader effort to optimize group-housing environments through evidence-based behavioral interventions.

These findings provide producers with actionable methods to improve animal welfare by reducing the frequency of injurious social interactions in their herds. Implementing these specific enrichment blocks and dietary adjustments can lead to healthier, more stable group-housed populations.

The takeaway

Producers may consider incorporating increased soluble fiber or suspended enrichment blocks to effectively lower aggression levels. These findings emphasize the importance of environmental management in reducing physical injuries during the critical late gestation phase.

What happens next

Kansas State University will host its annual Swine Day on November 19, 2026, where researchers will present these study results and findings to the industry.