Energy intake is the most critical factor in determining piglet survival during the first 3 days of life. Large litters are susceptible to higher mortality because of lower birth weight and increased competition over teats.
In the case of prolonged farrowings, it may be beneficial to massage the abdomen of the sow.
Problems during the farrowing process may have negative consequences for the further development of the piglets.
When piglets are born with yellow-greenish mucus (meconium) (see piglet on the right) and faecal particles on their skin (see piglet on the left), this is a sign of a prolonged farrowing process.
Tonsillar Swabs
Because hypothermic pigs
require more time after birth to ingest adequate colostrum
generally ingest less colostrum
A practical example of a bio security-breach: When purchasing gilts a gap in the vaccination-scheme occurred: A batch of gilts was not vaccinated for Circovirus immediately after arrival in the quarantine but was delayed until 2 months later when thew hole herd was vaccinated.
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