It is important to prevent newborn piglets becoming infected with disease-causing pathogens during the birth process.
Should a piglet fail to ingest any colostrum, its chance of survival is almost zero!
The concentrations of immunoglobulin (IgG and IgA) decrease rapidly within a few hours of birth. The timing and quantity of colostrum-intake are therefore critical. The more the better, the quicker the better!
A sow’s own colostrum is irreplaceable for the new born piglet! Only maternal immune cells derived from its’ own mother can cross the intestinal wall of the piglets and thereby activate an immune-system. Healthy and thriving sows will produce plenty colostrum. A piglet requires about 250 g each day. The colostrum contains many immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG and IgM) providing protection against viruses and bacteria.
Boehringer Ingelheim has developed the swine industry’s first commercially available quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for Lawsonia (ileitis) using fecal samples.
Luke Minion
Get the latest news on Swine Health Subscribe to our newsletter