AGRIBUSINESS: 4 piglet parameters for lifetime performance.
Genetic selection is leading to larger litters of piglets born with lowered levels of physiological maturity. As this trend amplifies an evolutionary strategy in swine favouring survival of the fittest, it presents negative performance and animal welfare implications.
Sow Peripartal Syndrome is a complex web of interactions affecting sows and piglets during the peripartal period. At least four parameters are present at birth that can ultimately determine piglets’ lifetime performance.
The following is an update on research underway to managing the syndrome.
Alive at birth
While genetic selection has increased the total number of pigs per litter, the number of pigs born alive has not increased at the same pace.
