Piglets that are not actively massaging the udder and thereby stimulating the release of prolactin leads to:
Premature cessation of milk production
Irregular return to oestrus
Strong, active piglets will stimulate the sow to produce the maximum amount of milk.
Oral application of an anti-inflammatory agent: Less stress and improved animal welfare
Research at the LfULG Kollitsch showed:
Anti-inflammatory agents, when applied orally and at the right moment will result in
Lower (normal) body-temperature of the sow
Better feed-intake of the sow
7 % less pre-weaning losses and higher weaning weights
Progesterone in the uterus blocks milk production. Only when the birth process is complete and the after-births have been delivered does this blocker stop.
Prolactin is important, especially in the last third of gestation, for proper udder-development. Furthermore prolactin is the main milk-promoting hormone during lactation.
Be aware of endotoxins and inflammations in the sow! Endotoxins i.e E.coli endotoxins and inflammatory processes inhibit these milk-hormones.
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.
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.
Rutger Jansen
Get the latest news on Swine Health Subscribe to our newsletter