A rapid and straight forward birth process helps the production of normal lactation milk.
The amount of milk produced by the sow depends in some part on the vitality and number of piglets:
Only strong, active piglets suckling the udder stimulate milk production of the sow
Well timed and consistent milk intake by the piglets is important in maintaining the whole lactation of the sow.
Udder development and colostrum production starts during late gestation but before the birth process has started.
The amount of colostrum that is produced depends on genetic and hormonal factors as well as body condition. The intrinsic quality of colostrum is also influenced by stress.
Correct water and feed supply to the sow in the last third of gestation is essential for optimal colostrum production.
1. Colostrum phase
On average sows produce about 5 litres of colostum, where every piglet needs 250 ml each
Colostrum is released within 15 hours of the birth-process starting
US - In the latest 'At the Meeting' (ATM) audio program on swine health from the Morrison Group, leading swine veterinarians take on the historic and novel work regarding porcine circovirus (PCV2), including prevention, new diagnostic methods and vertical transmission’s impact on pig production and sow herds.
Behavioural studies show: Differences in suckling-activity of piglets and/or feed intake after vaccination can be explained largely by the tolerance or intolerance of piglets to the vaccines applied.
Boehringer Ingelheim’s market leading Animal Health medication Metacam® (active ingredient: Meloxicam) obtained EU wide marketing authorisation as an oral suspension in a concentration of 15 mg/ml for use in pigs.
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