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Kaiser M, Herskin MS, Jacobsen S, Andersen PH, Nielsen MBF, Bækbo P, Jacobson M. Postpartum dysgalactia syndrome in sows: effects on behavior of sows and piglets. Porcine Health Manag 2022; 8:18. [PMID: 35501934 PMCID: PMC9059355 DOI: 10.1186/s40813-022-00260-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To investigate if specific sow and piglet behavioral characteristics could be used diagnostically, this case-cohort study of the behavior of sows and piglets during the periparturient period (from 24 h before the birth of first piglet to 24 h after the birth of last piglet) was conducted. Data included 32 sows diagnosed with PDS (PDS+) vs. 37 healthy matched controls (PDS-) and their litters. RESULTS A significant change from active behavior with many postural changes to a more passive behavior was noted in connection with parturition. Sow nesting behavior was less frequent in PDS+ sows compared to PDS- sows during (p = 0.04) and after parturition (p = 0.0004). No difference was found between PDS+ and PDS- in the number of postural changes, interval from last time standing to the birth of the first piglet, interval from last time eating/drinking to the birth of the first piglet, interval from the birth of the first piglet to the sow standing after farrowing, interval from the birth of the last piglet until eating/drinking, occurrence of bar biting, or frequency or duration of eating/drinking during the observation period. Piglets of PDS+ sows stayed outside the creep areas more often than piglets of PDS- sows (p < 0.0001), but there was no difference in the mean number of piglets observed massaging the udder every 10 min. CONCLUSION These results confirm that sow behavior changes from active before parturition to more passive after parturition. Being diagnosed with PDS affected the periparturient behavior of sows as well as their piglets. The observed reduction in nesting behavior in PDS+ sows may suggest that a highly motivated piglet-oriented behavior was affected. However, classical sickness behaviors like lethargy and passivity seem to be poor markers for PDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Kaiser
- Department of Animal Science, Aarhus University, 8830, Tjele, Denmark.
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Copenhagen University, 2630, Taastrup, Denmark.
| | - Mette S Herskin
- Department of Animal Science, Aarhus University, 8830, Tjele, Denmark
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Copenhagen University, 2630, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Stine Jacobsen
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Copenhagen University, 2630, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Pia H Andersen
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 75007, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Poul Bækbo
- Danish Pig Research Centre, SEGES, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Magdalena Jacobson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 75007, Uppsala, Sweden
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Heidinger B, Maschat K, Kuchling S, Hochfellner L, Winckler C, Baumgartner J, Leeb C. Short confinement of sows after farrowing, but not pen type affects live-born piglet mortality. Animal 2022; 16:100446. [PMID: 35042138 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2021.100446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last decades, permanent crating of farrowing and lactating sows has led to serious public concerns with regard to sow welfare. As one alternative, it has been suggested to restrict crating to the period when suckling piglets are at the highest risk to die. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate live-born piglet mortality with regard to different confinement periods (CFP) as well as farrowing pen types. On three research farms (A, B and C), four confinement periods were compared: In CFP 0 (control), sows were not confined at all, sows in CFP 3 were crated after the end of farrowing for three days. In CFP 4, sows were confined one day before the due date of farrowing until three days after parturition and sows in CFP 6 were crated one day before expected farrowing until five days after parturition. Furthermore, five different pen types designed for temporary crating (PT; 5.5-7.3 m2) were compared. In total, production data from 638 litters were analysed. For each piglet found dead (n = 1 580), the cause of death was determined by the farm personnel and verified by necropsy (all three farms) and additional video analysis (farms A and B only). Data were analysed using logistic mixed models with CFP 0 and pen type Fluegel as reference categories (CFP 0 was control and this pen type was present on all three farms and the largest number of litters was born in this pen type). Live-born piglet mortality was lower in temporarily crated sows than in sows without confinement (CFP 0; P < 0.015). Pairwise posthoc tests did not reveal differences between CFP 3, CFP 4 and CFP 6 (odds ratios 0.75, 0.59 and 0.69), nor between pen types. Additional factors associated with increasing live-born piglet mortality were larger litter size, higher sow parity as well as the administration of hormones around farrowing. Factors influencing mortality due to crushing were similar to those for total live-born mortality with the exception of CFP 3 not differing significantly from CFP 0. It can be concluded, that confinement of the sow for three days after farrowing is an effective measure to reduce live-born piglet mortality in the pen types tested. An extension of the confinement period to five days after parturition does not result in a further reduction of live-born mortality rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Heidinger
- Department of Animal Husbandry Systems, Technology and Emissions, Agricultural Research and Education Centre Raumberg-Gumpenstein, Raumberg 38, 8952 Irdning-Donnersbachtal, Austria
| | - K Maschat
- Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - S Kuchling
- Department Statistics and Analytical Epidemiology, Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety Ltd. (AGES), Zinzendorfgasse 27/1, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - L Hochfellner
- Department Statistics and Analytical Epidemiology, Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety Ltd. (AGES), Zinzendorfgasse 27/1, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - C Winckler
- Department of Sustainable Agricultural Systems, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU), Gregor-Mendel-Strasse 33, 1180 Vienna, Austria
| | - J Baumgartner
- Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - C Leeb
- Department of Sustainable Agricultural Systems, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU), Gregor-Mendel-Strasse 33, 1180 Vienna, Austria.
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Neu J, Göres N, Kecman J, Voß B, Rosner F, Swalve HH, Kemper N. Behavioral Observation Procedures and Tests to Characterize the Suitability of Sows for Loose-Housed Farrowing Systems. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11092547. [PMID: 34573512 PMCID: PMC8466909 DOI: 10.3390/ani11092547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In this study, different behavior tests were developed and applied to characterize the behavior of sows against humans and piglets in systems with short-term fixation only. In loose-housed sows, it is of extreme importance that the sows neither attack the stockpersons nor crush their piglets through carelessness. Selecting the sows for the respective traits might show positive effects in a successful realization of these husbandry systems. For example, the Dummy Arm Test simulated catching the piglets. In the Towel Test, the general reaction to unknown stress situations was tested by throwing a towel towards the sow during a resting phase. Another test simulated the emptying of the trough to simulate interaction with humans during a routine procedure. The study showed that the majority of the sows reacted calmly. Nesting and lying behavior were also analyzed, as was the behavior of sows when their litters returned after a short separation. This study showed that the behavioral observation procedures and designed tests are suitable to characterize sows’ behavior towards humans and piglets with regard to traits that are particularly important in systems without fixation. Abstract The objective of the study was to evaluate behavioral observation procedures and tests to characterize sows’ behavior for their suitability for free farrowing systems. Nest building activity (NB), lying-down behavior (LDB), and position after lying down (PLD) were assessed. Four tests were designed to characterize the reaction of sows to a novel object and an unexpected situation (Towel Test, TT), behavior towards humans (Dummy Arm Test, DAT; Trough Cleaning Test, TCT), and behavior towards piglets (Reunion Test, RT). The study was performed on a nucleus farm in 37 batches including 771 purebred landrace sows housed in farrowing pens with short-term fixation. The assessment of NB started 2 days before the expected date of the farrowing. In 56.2% of the observations, the sows showed increased chewing activity on gunnysacks. The LDB and PLD were assessed on days 3 and 19 post partum (p.p.). In 49.1% of the observations, sows showed careful lying-down behavior. In 50.1% of cases, sows preferred the stomach-teats-position when lying down. With the DAT on day 4 p.p., in 89.3% of observations, no or only slight reactions of the sow were documented. The TT and TCT were performed on days 3 and 10 p.p. Strong defensive reactions of animals towards humans were recorded in 4.5% of the observations in the TT, and in 4.0% of the observations in the TCT. In the RT on day 3 p.p., in 61.8%, a joyful response of the sows to the reunion with their piglets was observed. This study showed that the behavioral observation procedures and designed tests are suitable to characterize sows’ behavior towards humans and piglets with regard to traits that are particularly important in systems without fixation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Neu
- Institute for Animal Hygiene, Animal Welfare and Animal Behavior, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (J.N.); (N.G.)
| | - Nina Göres
- Institute for Animal Hygiene, Animal Welfare and Animal Behavior, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (J.N.); (N.G.)
| | - Jelena Kecman
- Institute of Agricultural and Nutritional Sciences, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Theodor-Lieser-Str. 11, 06120 Halle, Germany; (J.K.); (F.R.); (H.H.S.)
| | - Barbara Voß
- BHZP GmbH, An der Wassermühle 8, 21368 Dahlenburg, Germany;
| | - Frank Rosner
- Institute of Agricultural and Nutritional Sciences, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Theodor-Lieser-Str. 11, 06120 Halle, Germany; (J.K.); (F.R.); (H.H.S.)
| | - Hermann H. Swalve
- Institute of Agricultural and Nutritional Sciences, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Theodor-Lieser-Str. 11, 06120 Halle, Germany; (J.K.); (F.R.); (H.H.S.)
| | - Nicole Kemper
- Institute for Animal Hygiene, Animal Welfare and Animal Behavior, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (J.N.); (N.G.)
- Correspondence:
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Chapa JM, Maschat K, Iwersen M, Baumgartner J, Drillich M. Accelerometer systems as tools for health and welfare assessment in cattle and pigs - A review. Behav Processes 2020; 181:104262. [PMID: 33049377 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2020.104262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Welfare assessment has traditionally been performed by direct observation by humans, providing information at only selected points in time. Recently, this assessment method has been questioned, as 'Precision Livestock Farming' technologies may be able to deliver more valid, reliable and feasible real-time data at the individual level and serve as early monitoring systems for animal welfare. The aim of this paper is to describe how accelerometers can be used for welfare assessment based on the principles of the Welfare Quality assessment protocol. Algorithm development is based mainly on the detection of behavioural traits. So far, high accuracies have been found for movement and resting behaviours in cows and pigs, while algorithm development for feeding and drinking behaviours in pigs lag behind progress in cows where valid algorithms are already available. Welfare studies have used accelerometer technology to address the effects on behaviour of diet, daily cycle, enrichment, housing, social mixing, oestrus, lameness and disease. Additional aspects to consider before a decision is made upon its use in research and in practical applications include battery life and sensor location. While accelerometer systems for cows are already being used by farmers, application in pigs has mainly remained at the research level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose M Chapa
- Clinical Unit for Herd Health Management in Ruminants, University Clinic for Ruminants, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria; FFoQSI GmbH - Austrian Competence Centre for Feed and Food Quality, Safety and Innovation, Technopark 1C, 3430 Tulln, Austria
| | - Kristina Maschat
- Institute of Animal Welfare Science, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria; FFoQSI GmbH - Austrian Competence Centre for Feed and Food Quality, Safety and Innovation, Technopark 1C, 3430 Tulln, Austria
| | - Michael Iwersen
- Clinical Unit for Herd Health Management in Ruminants, University Clinic for Ruminants, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Johannes Baumgartner
- Institute of Animal Welfare Science, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Marc Drillich
- Clinical Unit for Herd Health Management in Ruminants, University Clinic for Ruminants, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria.
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Effects of Different Farrowing Environments on the Behavior of Sows and Piglets. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10020320. [PMID: 32085551 PMCID: PMC7070988 DOI: 10.3390/ani10020320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The farrowing crate has long been a severe welfare problem of sows as its space restriction greatly impairs the behavioral expression of sows and induces long-term stress. We aimed to investigate the behavioral pattern of sows and piglets reared under different farrowing systems a farrowing crate and free farrowing pens with sloping walls with or without nest materials. Sows and piglets in free farrowing pens had a higher level of activity and lower level of performing abnormal behaviors. Providing nest material enhanced the beneficial effect of free farrowing system on the behavior of sows and piglets. These results encourage us to introduce the free farrowing systems to the pig industry and thus improve the welfare condition of farrowing sows. However, improved managements should be investigated as the piglet loss in the free farrowing systems tended to be higher than that in the farrowing crate system. Abstract We investigated the effect of different farrowing systems on the behavior of sows and piglets. In total, 22 hybrid sows (Yorkshire × Landrace) were randomly assigned into three farrowing systems, farrowing crate (FC), free farrowing pen with sloping walls (FFS), and free farrowing pen with sloping walls and nest materials (FFSN). The FFS and FFSN sows were more active, and exhibited less abnormal behaviors compared with the FC sows before and after parturition. FFS and FFSN piglets were more active compared with FC piglets. The increased activity of the FFS and FFSN sows might encourage the activity of their piglets, resulting in more proximity to sow behavior of their piglets. Providing nest materials improved the investigative behavior of sows and piglets. The total mortality of piglets in the free farrowing systems tended to be higher compared with the farrowing crate system. In conclusion, free farrowing system has beneficial effects on the behavior of sows and piglets but extra care in management needs to be taken to avoid piglet loss. Adding nest material in the farrowing pens is suggested to enrich the behavioral pattern of sows and piglets.
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Glencorse D, Plush K, Hazel S, D’Souza D, Hebart M. Impact of Non-Confinement Accommodation on Farrowing Performance: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Farrowing Crates Versus Pens. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:ani9110957. [PMID: 31726676 PMCID: PMC6912515 DOI: 10.3390/ani9110957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2019] [Revised: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 11/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The aim of this project was to review previously published research with a focus on the effects of farrowing accommodation on piglet performance. The specific design features were analysed to determine whether animals in loose housed farrowing pens or crates from loading to weaning contribute to differences in litter performance obtained from different farrowing house accommodation types. This was the first systematic review and meta-analysis conducted towards the farrowing performance of crates and pens. The relative risk of piglet mortality was 14% higher in farrowing pens than farrowing crates, which indicated that non-confinement of sows compromises post-natal piglet survival. Overall, the type of farrowing accommodation did not affect the number of stillborn piglets. However, the rate of stillborn piglets was lower in farrowing pens that were not enriched when compared with farrowing crates, also with no enrichment. There was no effect of housing type on the number of piglets born alive or the number of piglets weaned, although the sample size for the later was much smaller. Producers should anticipate an increase in mortality when piglets are reared by sows that are unconfined in the pen designs that are currently available, which supports the wider belief that crates are successful for reducing pre-weaning piglet mortality. Abstract There are conflicting reports regarding the effect of farrowing house accommodation on piglet performance. The aim of this investigation was to use a systematic review and meta-analyses to summarise the results of publications that focused on direct comparisons between full confinement conventional crates and various designs of loose-housed farrowing pens from loading until weaning. Literature searches in Scopus, BIOSIS Previews, Cab Abstracts, and Web of Science identified 6695 articles. Twenty-two publications were retained for the systematic review and individual meta-analyses after screening for inclusion criteria. The random effects meta-analyses were performed on crate versus pen for number of piglets born alive, number of stillborn piglets, pre-weaning mortality, and number of piglets weaned. Additionally, the modifiers of confinement length (no confinement from loading until weaning or partial confinement for shorter periods of time in the early stages post parturition), enrichment (no enrichment or enrichment provided), and pen size (small, medium, or large) were examined. There was a 14% increase in the relative risk of piglet mortality in farrowing pens when they were compared with crates (p = 0.0015). The number of stillborns per litter was not different between the pen and crate. However, when providing enrichment in the pens, there was an increase in stillborns within farrowing crates versus pens (p = 0.009). There was no overall effect on piglets that were born alive or number weaned. As there is no difference between piglets born alive and mortality is significantly higher in farrowing pens, a reduction in the number of piglets weaned was expected but not observed, which was possibly due to the lack of weaning details provided in the publications. This was the first systematic review and meta-analysis conducted on the performance of farrowing accommodation and identified that farrowing pens do compromise post-natal piglet survival. Future efforts should focus on improving sow comfort in the farrowing crate to maximize both piglet and sow welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dannielle Glencorse
- SunPork Group, PO Box 92, Wasleys 5400, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-8-8525-4005
| | - Kate Plush
- SunPork Group, PO Box 92, Wasleys 5400, Australia
| | - Susan Hazel
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science, Faculty of Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy 5371, Australia
| | | | - Michelle Hebart
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science, Faculty of Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy 5371, Australia
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Schou TM, Palme R, Malmkvist J. Prolonged nest building increase the reproductive outcome in American female mink. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2018.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Yi R, Wang C, Zhang X, Zhao P, Zhang M, Li X, Cui S, Liu H, Bao J. Maternal Behavior, Posture Change, and Production Performance of Lactating Sows Housed in an Enriched Environment. J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2018; 22:298-308. [PMID: 30246556 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2018.1512860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate whether adding straw to a loose-farrowing house promotes maternal functions and production. Forty-eight sows (Landrace× Large White) were housed in either a farrowing pen without straw (C, n = 24) or with straw (S, n = 24). Behaviors were observed using video recordings and were statistically analyzed. Lateral recumbency was higher and standing was lower in S compared with C (p = .034 and p = .020, respectively), and lateral recumbency to other postures, ventral to lateral recumbency and standing to lying were markedly lower in S than C (p = .014, p = .025 and p = .023, respectively) on Day 1 postpartum. However, except piglet losses during the first three days postpartum (p = .032), piglet weight on Day 21 (p = .037), and piglet weaning weight (p = .020), other production performances were not significantly different between the two groups during the whole experimental period (p ˃.05). The results suggest the enrichment of a farrowing pen with straw has important beneficial effects on sow and piglet welfare and improves piglet survival rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Yi
- a College of Animal Science and Technology , Northeast Agricultural University , Harbin , China
| | - Chao Wang
- a College of Animal Science and Technology , Northeast Agricultural University , Harbin , China
| | - Xin Zhang
- a College of Animal Science and Technology , Northeast Agricultural University , Harbin , China
| | - Peng Zhao
- a College of Animal Science and Technology , Northeast Agricultural University , Harbin , China
| | - Mingyue Zhang
- a College of Animal Science and Technology , Northeast Agricultural University , Harbin , China
| | - Xiang Li
- a College of Animal Science and Technology , Northeast Agricultural University , Harbin , China
| | - Shiquan Cui
- a College of Animal Science and Technology , Northeast Agricultural University , Harbin , China
| | - Honggui Liu
- a College of Animal Science and Technology , Northeast Agricultural University , Harbin , China.,b Key Laboratory of Swine Facilities Engineering , Ministry of Agriculture , Harbin , China
| | - Jun Bao
- a College of Animal Science and Technology , Northeast Agricultural University , Harbin , China
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Swan KM, Peltoniemi OAT, Munsterhjelm C, Valros A. Comparison of nest-building materials in farrowing crates. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2018.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Confinement of sows 24h before expected farrowing affects the performance of nest building behaviours but not progress of parturition. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2017.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Hales J, Moustsen V, Nielsen M, Hansen C. The effect of temporary confinement of hyperprolific sows in Sow Welfare and Piglet protection pens on sow behaviour and salivary cortisol concentrations. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2016.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Baxter EM, Adeleye OO, Jack MC, Farish M, Ison SH, Edwards SA. Achieving optimum performance in a loose-housed farrowing system for sows: The effects of space and temperature. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2015.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Illmann G, Chaloupková H, Neuhauserová K. Effect of pre- and post-partum sow activity on maternal behaviour and piglet weight gain 24h after birth. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2014.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Hales J, Moustsen V, Devreese A, Nielsen M, Hansen C. Comparable farrowing progress in confined and loose housed hyper-prolific sows. Livest Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2014.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Cornou C, Kristensen AR. Monitoring individual activity before, during and after parturition using sensors for sows with and without straw amendment. Livest Sci 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2014.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Kirkden RD, Broom DM, Andersen IL. Invited review: piglet mortality: management solutions. J Anim Sci 2014; 91:3361-89. [PMID: 23798524 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2012-5637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Preweaning mortality varies greatly among herds and this is partly attributed to differences in farrowing house management. In this review, we describe the various management strategies than can be adopted to decrease mortality and critically examine the evidence that exists to support their use. First, we consider which management procedures are effective against specific causes of death: intrapartum stillbirth, hypothermia, starvation, disease, crushing, and savaging. The most effective techniques include intervention to assist dystocic sows, measures to prevent and treat sow hypogalactia, good farrowing house hygiene, providing newborn piglets with a warm microenvironment, early fostering of supernumerary piglets, methods that assist small and weak piglets to breathe and obtain colostrum, and intervention to prevent deaths from crushing and savaging. The provision of nest-building material and modifications to the pen to assist the sow when lying down may also be beneficial, but the evidence is less clear. Because most deaths occur around the time of farrowing and during the first few days of life, the periparturient period is a particularly important time for management interventions intended to reduce piglet mortality. A number of procedures require a stockperson to be present during and immediately after farrowing. Second, we consider the benefits of farrowing supervision for preweaning mortality in general, focusing particularly on methods for the treatment of dystocia and programs of piglet care that combine multiple procedures. Third, we discuss the need for good stockmanship if farrowing supervision is to be effective. Stockmanship refers not only to technical skills but also to the manner in which sows are handled because this influences their fearfulness of humans. We conclude that piglet survival can be improved by a range of management procedures, many of which occur in the perinatal period and require the supervision of farrowing by trained staff. Although this incurs additional labor costs, there is some evidence that this can be economically offset by improved piglet survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- R D Kirkden
- University of Cambridge, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Madingley Road, Cambridge, CB3 0ES, UK.
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Westin R, Holmgren N, Mattsson B, Algers B. Throughput capacity of large quantities of chopped straw in partly slatted farrowing pens for loose housed sows. ACTA AGR SCAND A-AN 2013. [DOI: 10.1080/09064702.2013.780633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Abstract
Farrowing is an intrinsically risky process for both the sow and the piglets that can cause welfare and economic problems. The effects of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug meloxicam on post-farrowing behaviour of sows, and the performance of piglets were investigated. A total of 48 sows were randomly allocated at the day of farrowing (day 0) into two homogeneous groups regarding parity, and treated with either meloxicam or saline solution as placebo. For each sow, number of position changes, total time lying and standing or sitting, feed intake and rectal temperature (RT) were recorded during 3 days after farrowing. Piglets were individually weighed at farrowing and at weaning. The number of position changes did not show significant differences between treatments (P = 0.79). Sows spent significantly less time lying during day +3 after farrowing in the meloxicam group than in the placebo group (P = 0.04). Feed intake and RT showed a parity effect (P < 0.001 in both cases); however, no treatment effect was observed (P = 0.67 and P = 0.47, respectively). Pre-weaning mortality rate in piglets was not affected by treatment. In litters from multiparous sows, piglets of low birth weight (defined as percentile 15: BW <1180 g) had an average daily gain significantly higher in the meloxicam group than in the placebo group (196.6 ± 7.2 v. 166.6 ± 9.1 g/day; P = 0.03). Although the administration of meloxicam 90 min after farrowing showed a positive effect on the total time lying of the sows, additional investigations are required to better qualify relevant indicators of pain following farrowing in sows and to specify the analgesic effects of meloxicam on piglet performance.
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The effects of environmental enrichment on the behaviour of suckling piglets and lactating sows: A review. Livest Sci 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2011.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Impact of social stress during gestation and environmental enrichment during lactation on the maternal behavior of sows. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2011.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Damm BI, Heiskanen T, Pedersen LJ, Jørgensen E, Forkman B. Sow preferences for farrowing under a cover with and without access to straw. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2010.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Mainau E, Dalmau A, Ruiz-de-la-Torre JL, Manteca X. A behavioural scale to measure ease of farrowing in sows. Theriogenology 2010; 74:1279-87. [PMID: 20688376 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.05.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2009] [Revised: 05/27/2010] [Accepted: 05/27/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Farrowing is one of the most critical phases in pig production, as it has an impact on neonatal pig survival. Assessing the ease of farrowing can improve the management of sows and thus increase litter survival. The aims of this study were: 1) to develop an ease of farrowing score (EFS) in sows based on the behaviour of the sows and their piglets, and 2) to determine the relationship between the EFS and productive, physiological, and subjective parameters. Eighty hybrid (Large White × Landrace) sows from first to seventh parity housed in individual crates were used. An EFS was constructed using the total duration of farrowing, the birth interval, the total time standing or sitting, the number of position changes during the day before and the day of farrowing, the sow posture at birth, the viability and the position of the piglets at birth (head or back born). Moreover, rectal temperature at 90 min after farrowing, a four categorical subjective visual assessment (VA) of farrowing and litter size (piglets born alive, stillborn and mummified foetus) were recorded. A common factor analysis model yielded five factors with an eigenvalue higher than 0.95 that accounted for 75.05% of the total variation between individuals. The three main factors were "farrowing duration", "sow posture", and "sow activity" of sows and explained 23.44%, 15.67%, and 14.23% of the variance, respectively. Primiparous sows had higher values for factor 3 (sow activity) than multiparous sows (P = 0.02). Sows without stillborn or mummification foetus showed higher values of EFS than sows with at least one stillborn or mummification foetus (P = 0.06 and 0.01, respectively). Sows that received a visual assessment of 3 and 4 showed higher values of EFS than sows that received a VA of 1 and 2 (P = 0.0017). The EFS appears to be a good behavioural scale to measure ease of farrowing in sows kept in individual farrowing crates. Duration of farrowing, sow position, and presence of stillborn piglets and mummified foetuses appear to be important ease of farrowing indicators.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Mainau
- Department of Animal and Food Science, School of Veterinary Science, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain.
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Mainau E, Dalmau A, Ruiz-de-la-Torre JL, Manteca X. Validation of an automatic system to detect position changes in puerperal sows. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2009.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Loose farrowing systems: challenges and solutions. Anim Welf 2007. [DOI: 10.1017/s0962728600027111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
AbstractThe use of farrowing crates is increasingly questioned from an animal welfare point of view. Even so, since a number of attempts to develop loose farrowing systems have been unsuccessful, leading to high levels of piglet mortality due in the main to crushing, many farmers remain sceptical as to whether or not alternative systems can be viable. On the other hand, several European countries have introduced legislation requiring loose farrowing systems, thus promoting research into this type of housing and allowing for performance studies based on large samples of commercial farms. As a consequence of these recent developments, we think it timely to reconsider the evidence available on loose farrowing systems. In our review, we first address the normal peri-parturient behaviour of domestic pigs, as well as studies comparing behaviour and stress physiology in sows kept in both crates and loose systems during farrowing. We then review approaches taken to develop alternative farrowing systems in different countries, and focus lastly on pen, piglet and sow characteristics that contribute to piglet survival in loose farrowing systems. Taking scientific evidence as well as practical experience into account, we conclude that piglet mortality in loose farrowing systems need not exceed that of crate systems. To obtain good performance results, sows due to farrow should be kept individually in sufficiently large pens, structured for preference into a nest area and an activity area. Furthermore, both management and breeding aspects, resulting in high piglet viability and good maternal behaviour, are essential to achieve high production in loose farrowing systems.
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Damm B, Pedersen L, Marchant-Forde J, Gilbert C. Does feed-back from a nest affect periparturient behaviour, heart rate and circulatory cortisol and oxytocin in gilts? Appl Anim Behav Sci 2003. [DOI: 10.1016/s0168-1591(03)00111-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Damm B, Lisborg L, Vestergaard K, Vanicek J. Nest-building, behavioural disturbances and heart rate in farrowing sows kept in crates and Schmid pens. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2003. [DOI: 10.1016/s0301-6226(02)00186-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Chiang CF, Johnson RK, Nielsen MK. Selection for maternal behavior in mice—direct and correlated responses. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2002. [DOI: 10.1016/s0168-1591(02)00090-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Pituitary-Adrenal Activation in Pre-Parturient Pigs (Sus Scrofa) is Associated with Behavioural Restriction Due to Lack of Space Rather than Nesting Substrate. Anim Welf 2002. [DOI: 10.1017/s0962728600025100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
AbstractPrevious research has shown that pre-parturient primiparous pigs (gilts) housed in behaviourally restrictive farrowing crates without straw redirect their nest-building behaviour to non-manipulable substrates such as the bars of the crate. These gilts also show elevated plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and Cortisol levels, particularly around the peak of nest-building activity, when compared to gilts in larger pens that have been provided with a manipulable substrate (straw). It remains unclear whether these behavioural and physiological responses to crating result from the lack of a suitable nesting substrate or from the restricted space. This study investigated the effects of space (crate [C] versus pen [P] and straw (straw [S] versus no straw [NS]) using a 2 × 2 factorial design. Thirty-four gilts were implanted with an indwelling jugular catheter at around 12 days before parturition. They were moved to one of the four environments five days before parturition, and blood sampling and recording of behaviour were carried out during the pre-parturient period. Penned gilts (P), irrespective of straw availability, spent more time standing and walking and performed more total substrate-directed behaviour than crated (C) gilts. When straw was not available to penned gilts, a large proportion of their substrate-directed behaviour was redirected to the floor. Space also had an effect on ACTH and Cortisol levels across the entire pre-parturient phase, with C gilts having higher levels than P gilts irrespective of straw availability, but particularly so at the peak of nest-building activity. There was no effect of straw on ACTH or Cortisol levels. Overall, it appears that increased space, perhaps through allowing locomotion, increases substrate-directed behaviour of pre-parturient gilts. When space is available but straw is absent, pre-parturient gilts redirect their nest-building behaviour to the floor. The ability to express substrate-directed behaviour as a result of increased space is reflected in lower levels of indicators of physiological stress.
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Thodberg K, Jensen KH, Herskin MS. Nest building and farrowing in sows: relation to the reaction pattern during stress, farrowing environment and experience. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2002. [DOI: 10.1016/s0168-1591(02)00026-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Damm B, Bildsøe M, Gilbert C, Ladewig J, Vestergaard K. The effects of confinement on periparturient behaviour and circulating prolactin, prostaglandin F2α and oxytocin in gilts with access to a variety of nest materials. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2002. [DOI: 10.1016/s0168-1591(01)00212-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Wülbers-Mindermann M, Algers B, Berg C, Lundeheim N, Sigvardsson J. Primiparous and multiparous maternal ability in sows in relation to indoor and outdoor farrowing systems. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2002. [DOI: 10.1016/s0301-6226(01)00257-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Jarvis S, Van der Vegt BJ, Lawrence AB, McLean KA, Deans LA, Chirnside J, Calvert SK. The effect of parity and environmental restriction on behavioural and physiological responses of pre-parturient pigs. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2001; 71:203-216. [PMID: 11230901 DOI: 10.1016/s0168-1591(00)00183-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
There is increasing evidence that restriction of pre-parturient behaviour in pigs is stress-inducing, characterised by an elevation in hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) activity in gilts. To determine whether pigs adapt to behavioural restriction, through modification of nest-building behaviour, we studied pre-parturient pigs in either farrowing crates (no bedding, n=7) or straw-bedded pens (n=7) in their first (gilts) and second (sows) parity, with physiological measurements being taken in the second parity. Observations and blood sampling were carried out during the pre-parturient phase. Crated pigs changed posture more often than penned pigs (F(1,12)=7.06, P<0.05), with the number of posture changes reducing across parities in both environments. The reduction in posture changing was more apparent in the crated sows which may indicate that attempted nest-building behaviour of sows with prior experience of farrowing crates is less fragmented. The crated pigs spent a greater proportion of time sitting across both parities (F(1,12)=9.4, P<0.01), and spent less time manipulating available substrates (F(1,12)=10.67, P<0.05). There was a tendency for penned pigs to spend a greater proportion of time standing (F(1,12)=3.77, P=0.076) with peak nesting behaviour occurring earlier in relation to parturition than in crated pigs. In addition penned sows performed more floor-directed behaviour than penned gilts, and at an earlier stage in relation to parturition. However, crated sows also performed peak nest-building earlier than crated gilts. Plasma cortisol profiles indicated elevated HPA activity in crated sows during the pre-parturient period (F(42,303)=1.43, P<0.05) suggesting increased physiological stress, however, the difference between crated and penned sows was less than that previously seen in gilts. The increased range of pre-parturient behaviours seen in the penned sows suggests that experience may result in an 'improvement' in their nest-building behaviour: earlier preparation of the nest site and then subsequent manipulation of substrates. The crated sows appeared to show some behavioural adaptation to the crate environment; earlier peak in floor directed behaviour and total substrate directed behaviour, reduced posture changing. In conclusion the nest-building behaviour of pigs is modified over parities with adaptation to the behavioural restrictions imposed by the farrowing crate. However, this adaptation, through prior experience, does not completely reduce the elevation in HPA activity previously reported in pre-parturient crated gilts.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Jarvis
- Animal Behavioural Sciences Department, Animal Biology Division, SAC-Edinburgh, West Mains Road, EH9 3JG, Edinburgh, UK
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McPhee CP, Kerr JC, Cameron ND. Peri-partum posture and behaviour of gilts and the location of their piglets in lines selected for components of efficient lean growth. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2001; 71:1-12. [PMID: 11179555 DOI: 10.1016/s0168-1591(00)00165-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Peri-partum posture and behaviour of gilts from lines selected for different components of efficient lean growth were studied to determine if behavioural changes may have been associated with the observed responses in reproductive performance. The proportions of time that gilts expressed defined posture and behaviour traits and the locations of their piglets were determined from video recordings of observations made at 5min intervals in the period extending from 2h pre-farrowing to 2h post-farrowing. The 137 gilts studied were from four pairs of Large White lines which had been divergently (high and low) selected for either daily food intake (DFI), lean food conversion efficiency (LFC), lean growth rate on ad libitum feeding (LGA) or lean growth rate on a restricted feeding scale (LGS).Almost all the significant (P<05) changes occurred in the LGS pair of lines. In the pre-farrowing period, relative to the low LGS gilts, high LGS gilts spent a higher proportion of their time lying on their sides (0.92 versus 0.69), and less time in the upright postures of standing, sitting or lying on their bellies (0.08 versus 0.33) and engaging in nesting behaviour (0.02 versus 0.10). During farrowing, high LGS gilts again lay on their sides more often than low LGS gilts (0.96 versus 0.80) and were upright less often (0.04 versus 0.20). High LGS gilts changed posture less often than low LGS gilts (0.05 versus 0.31) but were more often alert (0.79 versus 0.61). During farrowing, high LGS piglets were seen less often at their mother's head, back and vulva or at the creep than low LGS piglets (0.06 versus 0.15). Post-farrowing, there were no significant differences between the lines, almost all gilts lying on their sides with their piglets at the udder. Divergent selection for components of efficient lean growth rate on ad libitum feeding was not associated with consistent responses in gilt posture and behaviour or in piglet location. Selection for high lean growth on restricted feeding had effects on gilt posture and behaviour which may have been beneficial to her welfare and that of her piglets.
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Affiliation(s)
- C P. McPhee
- Animal Research Institute, LMB 4, Q4105, Moorooka, Australia
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Deprivation of straw bedding alters PGF(2alpha)-induced nesting behaviour in female pigs. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2000; 69:215-225. [PMID: 10906405 DOI: 10.1016/s0168-1591(00)00135-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Sows are highly motivated to build a maternal nest on the day preceding parturition. A model for nest building has been established in pigs, in which exogenously administered prostaglandin F(2alpha) (PGF(2alpha)) may be used to elicit nesting behaviour in cyclic, pseudopregnant and pregnant pigs. The aim of this experiment was to examine the effects of deprivation of straw bedding on PGF(2alpha)-induced nest building in pseudopregnant Large White gilts. Oestradiol valerate injections (5 mg/day) were given on days 11-15 of the oestrous cycle to induce pseudopregnancy. The pigs were housed individually in a pen (2.8x1.7 m) and provided with 2-kg fresh straw each day. On the test day, on day 46 or 47 of pseudopregnancy, half of the pigs were deprived of straw (substrate effect) and they were injected intramuscularly with saline or 15 mg of PGF(2alpha) (Lutalyse, Upjohn) (treatment effect) allocated in a Latin-square design. Behaviour was recorded onto video tapes for 1 h either side of treatment for analysis using a computerised event recorder. PGF(2alpha)-treated pigs housed in bare or strawed pens showed significantly higher frequencies of pawing and rooting, and stood for longer than saline-treated controls. This treatment effect has been previously shown to be comparable to pre-partum nest building. The removal of straw significantly reduced the frequency of pawing and the duration of rooting by PGF(2alpha)-treated pigs. The results demonstrate that nesting behaviour can be initiated by exogenously administered PGF(2alpha) and is further modified by the provision of straw. This suggests that PGF(2alpha)-induced nesting behaviour is subject to environmental feedback.
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Gilbert CL, Murfitt PJ, Boulton MI, Pain J, Burne TH. Effects of prostaglandin F2alpha treatment on the behavior of pseudopregnant pigs in an extensive environment. Horm Behav 2000; 37:229-36. [PMID: 10868486 DOI: 10.1006/hbeh.2000.1577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In seminatural environments, prepartum sows leave the herd and construct a maternal nest (a dug out hollow lined with vegetation) prior to the birth of their piglets. The endocrine drives motivating this behavior are not understood, but may involve prostaglandin (PG) F2alpha. This study examined the effect of PGF2alpha treatment on the behavior of pseudopregnant gifts housed in a large enclosure. Pseudopregnancy was induced using 5 mg/ml estradiol valerate/day im from days 11 to 15 of the estrous cycle (first day of estrus = day 0). The gifts' behavior was recorded on a control day, during which no treatment was given, and a test day (= 45.9 +/- 0.42 days of pseudopregnancy) when gilts received either 15 mg PGF2alpha (dinoprost: Lutalyse, Upjohn, Crawley, UK, n = 11) or 0.9% saline (n = 10) im at 11.00 h. PGF2alpha-treated gilts traveled further and were more frequently >10 m from the nearest pig than saline-treated animals. In the hour following injection, PGF2alpha-treated animals also showed increased frequencies of rooting and pawing the ground and stood for longer than saline-treated animals. However, gathering and carrying nest materials were not increased. These results suggest that PGF2alpha, given as a single dose to extensively housed gilts, initiated many, but not all, of the behaviors characteristic of prepartum nest building. The dose and duration of PGF2alpha treatment may have limited the observed behaviors. In addition, environmental feedback is likely to affect the degree to which some nest building behaviors are expressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- C L Gilbert
- Department of Neurobiology, The Babraham Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Thodberg K, Jensen KH, Herskin MS, Jørgensen E. Influence of environmental stimuli on nest building and farrowing behaviour in domestic sows. Appl Anim Behav Sci 1999. [DOI: 10.1016/s0168-1591(99)00002-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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The effects of farrowing nest size and width on sow and piglet behaviour and piglet survival. Appl Anim Behav Sci 1998. [DOI: 10.1016/s0168-1591(98)00159-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Fraser D, Phillips P, Thompson B. Farrowing behaviour and stillbirth in two environments: An evaluation of the restraint-stillbirth hypothesis. Appl Anim Behav Sci 1997. [DOI: 10.1016/s0168-1591(97)00007-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Behavioural Observations of Peri-Parturient Sows and the Development of Alternative Farrowing Accommodation: A Review. Anim Welf 1997. [DOI: 10.1017/s0962728600019813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
AbstractA number of alternative farrowing systems have recently been developed, some of which have been more successful at improving welfare and productivity than others. It is argued that for a system to be successful it should meet with the behavioural requirements of the sow at this time. A number of studies have been carried out to observe the natural behaviour patterns of the peri-parturient sow in a wide range of environmental conditions. These studies have shown that during each phase of peri-parturient behaviour there are a number of key environmental features and conditions which are important to the sow. These include the social environment, shelter, nesting material and offspring interaction. This information can be useful in the design of farrowing systems. A review of the literature indicated that the more these conditions are met, the more readily the sow can adapt to the system, leading to improvements in maternal behaviour and piglet production.
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Arey DS, Sancha ES. Behaviour and productivity of sows and piglets in a family system and in farrowing crates. Appl Anim Behav Sci 1996. [DOI: 10.1016/0168-1591(96)01075-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Gilbert C, Lawrence A, Forsling M, Goode J, McGrath T, McLean K, Petherick J. Maternal plasma vasopressin, oxytocin and cortisol concentrations following foetal ejection in the pig. Anim Reprod Sci 1996. [DOI: 10.1016/0378-4320(96)01497-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Cronin G, Simpson G, Hemsworth P. The effects of the gestation and farrowing environments on sow and piglet behaviour and piglet survival and growth in early lactation. Appl Anim Behav Sci 1996. [DOI: 10.1016/0168-1591(95)00657-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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