Although fostering is often necessary in highly prolific sow units, there are significant risks associated with the procedure:
A frequent observation: after a treatment (injection, etc.) stressed piglets may not suckle for several hours. This has negative consequences for the development of the piglets and may result in milk-congestion in the sow.
Hypogalactia is likely to result in malnutrition of suckling pigs.
The sow should lie in a recumbent position and invite piglets with specific sounds expressing the desire for milk let-down. Piglets will normally try to have facial contact with the sow’s head to stimulate milk release. To ensure optimal interaction between a sow and her piglets, it is important to avoid treating piglets during the first 10 days after birth and, thereafter, when multiple treatments are required, they should be grouped together to minimize the number of interventions.
Boehringer Ingelheim funds three research projects against swine disease PRRS with €75,000 total and three winners have been chosen for this year's awards out of more than 30 high-quality proposals.
Problems during the farrowing process may have negative consequences for the further development of the piglets.
Udder development and colostrum production starts during late gestation but before the birth process has started.
The amount of colostrum that is produced depends on genetic and hormonal factors as well as body condition. The intrinsic quality of colostrum is also influenced by stress.
Correct water and feed supply to the sow in the last third of gestation is essential for optimal colostrum production.
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