Which of the following could indicate pain in a pig?

• A. All of the above
• B. Reluctance to ambulate
• C. Gait score changes
• D. Posture changes

Answer: (A)

Pain in pigs shows up through movement and posture changes. When a pig is in discomfort, it often resists moving, so reluctance to ambulate becomes a telltale sign. Its gait may alter—steps can be slower, uneven, or limping as the animal weights a painful limb. Posture can also change, with a guarded or tense stance, arched back, or other positions that reflect discomfort. Because any one of these signs can appear, and they often occur together, the most accurate option is the one that includes all of them. In welfare checks, clinicians look for a combination of signs to confirm pain, since relying on a single cue can miss or misinterpret the issue.