Provision of enrichment is important for all farmed animals. Enrichment falls into five categories; social (e.g. social play with other animals), physical (e.g. brushes), nutritional (e.g. different types of food), sensory (e.g. music), and cognitive (e.g. navigating a new environment).

Providing farmed animals with enrichment promotes normal development, provides opportunities for positive mental experiences, agency (choice, control and challenge), and reduces the risk of developing abnormal behaviours.

Animals vary in what they find enriching, and this may be influenced by their genetics, age, sex, prior experiences and individual preferences. Enrichment items and activities should be carefully chosen for farmed animals to ensure they are providing opportunities for positive welfare. It is important to monitor behaviour to ensure enrichment is engaging and safe.

SPCA opposes the permanent keeping of farmed animals in barren environments.

Animal welfare is most at risk in barren environments. Chronic inescapable boredom due to inappropriate housing conditions or a lack of suitable social interactions can be extremely aversive for animals and can contribute to unwanted behaviours such as aggression or stereotypic behaviours.