Basic pig husbandry - the litter

Summary

In order to survive, piglets must be born into a warm environment in which they can conserve their meagre energy reserves, quickly gain access to the sow, and suckle in safety. Even under good conditions, piglets may be born weak. This is usually associated with a delayed farrowing or light birth weight. Weak piglets will need special care.

The contents of this Primefact include the following:

  • at birth
  • providing warmth
  • assisting weak piglets
  • fostering
  • artificial rearing
  • piglet anaemia
  • tooth clipping
  • tail docking
  • castration
  • creep feeding



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Primefact 071 First Edition

Published: 01 Feb 2006