Energy intake is the most critical factor in determining piglet survival during the first 3 days of life. Large litters are susceptible to higher mortality because of lower birth weight and increased competition over teats.
In the case of prolonged farrowings, it may be beneficial to massage the abdomen of the sow.
Problems during the farrowing process may have negative consequences for the further development of the piglets.
When piglets are born with yellow-greenish mucus (meconium) (see piglet on the right) and faecal particles on their skin (see piglet on the left), this is a sign of a prolonged farrowing process.
In normally developing suckling pigs, although a piglet breathes from soon after birth, the lung’s tissue increases its size and function during the first 14 days of life. The oxygen transfer continually improves during this time.
Boehringer Ingelheim funds three research projects against swine disease PRRS with a total of €75,000
Applications to submit research proposals can be made on www.prrs.com (link is external).
More than 3,500 swine practitioners and scientists from all over the world met for four days to present and discuss swine health management at the 24th International Pig Veterinary Society (IPVS) congress in Dublin last June. Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health (BIAH) was a partner sponsor for the event showing once again its commitment to supporting the swine industry and more importantly also contributing very actively on a rich technical and scientific program with more than 120 posters and a many oral presentations from BIAH colleagues from around the world.
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