Basic pig husbandry - gilts and sows

Summary

One of the greatest effects on profitability is the number of piglets reared per sow per year. As well as possessing the genetic potential to improve the production characteristics of her progeny, the sow must have the ability to rear large, healthy litters.

The contents of this Primefact include the following:

• selection
• care of gilts
• signs of approaching oestrus
• mating period
• gestation period
• general care and disease prevention
• farrowing period
• pre-farrowing treatment
• signs of approaching farrowing
• parturition
• postnatal or after-farrowing care
• lactation period
• replacement