19/06/2025
PIG MORTALITY refers to the death of pigs, and a significant portion of piglet deaths occur within the first few days of life, with starvation and crushing being major causes. Factors like birth weight, maturity, and vigor play a crucial role in piglet survival, with heavier, more mature, and vigorous piglets having a higher chance of survival.
Key Factors Contributing to Pig Mortality:
1. Neonatal Mortality: A large percentage of piglet deaths occur shortly after birth, with stillbirths, crushing, and starvation being the primary culprits.
2. Crushing: Sows accidentally crushing piglets, especially during the first few days, is a major cause of mortality.
3. Starvation: Piglets that are weak or unable to compete for teats may not receive enough colostrum, leading to starvation and death.
4. Congenital Abnormalities: Some piglets are born with conditions that make them unable to survive.
5. Disease: Infectious diseases can also contribute to piglet mortality, especially in the first few days of life.
6. Birth Weight and Maturity: Lower birth weight and immaturity can negatively impact a piglet's ability to survive.
7. Vigor: Piglets that are more active and quicker to find a teat have a better chance of survival.
Management Strategies to Reduce Mortality:
1. Optimize Sow Management: Good nutrition, appropriate housing, and attentive care during farrowing can improve piglet survival rates.
2. Minimize Crushing: Properly designed farrowing crates and careful observation can reduce the risk of crushing.
3. Ensure Adequate Colostrum Intake: Providing supplemental colostrum or milk replacer can help weak piglets survive.
4. Disease Prevention: Maintaining a clean environment and implementing vaccination and biosecurity protocols can help prevent disease outbreaks.
5. Crossbreeding: Crossbreeding can improve piglet survival and overall productivity.
6. Genetic Selection: Selecting for sows with good maternal traits and piglets with higher birth weights can also contribute to lower mortality rates.
By understanding the factors that contribute to piglet mortality and implementing appropriate management strategies, farmers can significantly improve piglet survival and overall farm profitability.
