Farrowing Management Technical Articles
Article published the September 25, 2019:
The loss of baby pigs before weaning is an enormous waste of resources. Recent data from 49 Kentucky farrow-to-finish swine farms indicate that an average of 80 percent of pigs born alive survive to weaning. Mo...
Article published the February 15, 2018:
Introduction
Lactogenesis is induced hormonally by a dramatic drop of progesterone (P4) concentrations which leads to a pre-partum peak of prolactin (PRL). In sows, impaired production of colostrum has been fo...
Article published the February 5, 2018:
Introduction
The conventional management in the swine industry is for weaning to start the sow’s next reproductive cycle. However, breeding sows during lactation has been proposed as an alternative that ...
Article published the August 10, 2017:
Article published the July 20, 2017:
Background
Directive 91/630/EEC sets the minimum standards for the protection of pigs in the EU. It has been substantially amended several times. Directive 2008/120/EC [1] collates the existing legislation int...
Article published the November 25, 2016:
How would you feel if one day – seemingly out of the blue – someone took away your favorite beverage and replaced it with something they said was good for you? Would you scream frustration? Would yo...
Article published the February 22, 2016:
If we want to maintain a prolific and productive herd, we must continue to prioritise the introduction of high genetic merit replacement gilts into our herd. Additionally we must manage and feed them correctly ...
Article published the November 18, 2013:
Introduction
The industry definition of "Gestation Stall Free" was that sows and gilts should be kept in loose housing systems from five days after service until one week before farrowing. Associated with thi...
Article published the July 26, 2013:
Introduction
Rectal prolapse can occur in all species of domestic animals, but it is most common in the swine [1]. In pigs, it occurs if support and fixation mechanisms (fascia, muscles, ligaments) are overcom...
Article published the October 25, 2012:
Introduction
During the past few years, there has been growing concern expressed by the public over the continued use of individual stalls in gestation or pregnant sow housing systems. In the United States, th...