Differential Effects of Positive and Negative Emotional Contagion on Environmental Adaptability in Pigs

Lay Summary In production, moving pigs to new pens is a common but stressful practice. We investigated whether pigs can perceive emotions from their pen-mates, and if this affects how well they adapt to new environments. We found that pigs interacting with a companion in a positive emotional state (who had just received a food reward) became more relaxed and explored unfamiliar spaces more confidently. Conversely, pigs exposed to a stressed companion became more restless. Importantly, this emotional transfer did not change their sensitivity to pain. This study shows that promoting positive emotional state within a pig group can be a powerful, low-cost tool to reduce stress during routine farm movements, ultimately improving animal welfare and productivity.