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Knoll M, Gygax L, Hillmann E. Sow serenity: automatic long-term measurement of lying behavior in crates and free-farrowing pens using 3D accelerometers. J Anim Sci 2024; 102:skae101. [PMID: 38581277 PMCID: PMC11044708 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skae101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Accelerometers are useful in analyzing lying behavior in farm animals. The effect of the farrowing system on sow lying behavior has been studied around parturition, but not long-term. In a natural environment, sows increase activity 14 d post parturition, which we expected to be also evident in housed sows when they can move freely. The objective of this study was (1) to validate the methodology to automatically measure sow lying bouts and duration with accelerometers and (2) to apply it to crated and free-farrowing sows 24-h pre-parturition until weaning. We used videos with manual behavior coding as the gold standard for validation and calculated the agreement with an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), which was 0.30 (95% CI: -0.10 to 0.64) for the number of lying bouts. When transitional sitting bouts were excluded from the video dataset, the ICC for lying bouts increased to 0.86 (95% CI: 0.40 to 0.95). For lying duration, the ICC was 0.93 (95% CI: 0.26 to 0.98). We evaluated the effects of housing, day relative to parturition, and time of day on lying using the accelerometer data and linear mixed models. In crated sows, the number of lying bouts increased toward parturition, peaking at about five bouts per 6 h, and decreased to almost zero bouts after parturition. Then, it increased again (P = 0.001). In free-farrowing sows, the number of lying bouts gradually decreased from a high level towards parturition and was lowest after parturition. It remained constant, as in the crated sows, until day 15, when the number of bouts increased to eight bouts on day 20 (P = 0.001). Sows in both systems were lying almost all of the time between 18:00 and 00:00 hours and on all days (P = 0.001). The crated sows showed a very similar pattern in the other three-quarters of the day with a reduced lying time before parturition, a peak after parturition, reduced lying time from days 5 to 20, and an increase again towards weaning (P = 0.001). Free-farrowing sows had a similar pattern to the crated sows from 00:00 to 06:00 hours, but without the reduction in lying time from days 5 to 20. They showed an increase in lying time toward parturition, which remained constant with a final decrease toward weaning, especially during the day (P = 0.001). This study proves the accuracy of accelerometer-based sow lying behavior classification and shows that free-farrowing systems benefit lactating sows around parturition but also towards weaning in the nest-leaving phase by facilitating activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian Knoll
- Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Life Sciences, Albrecht Daniel Thaer Institute of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Animal Husbandry and Ethology, 10099 Berlin, Germany
| | - Lorenz Gygax
- Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Life Sciences, Albrecht Daniel Thaer Institute of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Animal Husbandry and Ethology, 10099 Berlin, Germany
| | - Edna Hillmann
- Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Life Sciences, Albrecht Daniel Thaer Institute of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Animal Husbandry and Ethology, 10099 Berlin, Germany
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Sánchez-Salcedo JA, Yáñez-Pizaña A. Effects of free farrowing system on the productive performance and welfare of sows and piglets. J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2024; 27:1-11. [PMID: 34994264 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2021.2008935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Regardless of international animal welfare regulations, most sows in production currently spend most of their lives and the peripartum period in caged housing systems. Although this type of management is intended to reduce neonatal mortality in piglets, several studies consider that there has been no significant reduction in its incidence over the last 30 years. On the contrary, cage housing has promoted the appearance of alterations during the farrowing process such as dystocia, as well as in maternal behavior and health, promoting stereotypes, skin lesions and other alterations, which not only impact the sows but also their progeny during the lactational period. Therefore, the aim of the present review is to compare the productive performance and welfare of sows and their piglets within the farrowing, lactation, and post-weaning period in both traditional and free-farrowing systems, highlighting the differences in these indicators in each of them.
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Affiliation(s)
- José A Sánchez-Salcedo
- Facultad de Ingeniería En Sistemas de Producción Agropecuaria, Universidad Veracruzana, Acayucan, México
| | - Ariadna Yáñez-Pizaña
- Escuela de Ciencias de La Salud, Medicina Veterinaria Y Zootecnia, Universidad Del Valle de México, Coyoacán, México
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3
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Liu T, Kong N, Liu Z, Xi L, Hui X, Ma W, Li X, Cheng P, Ji Z, Yang Z, Yang X. New insights into factors affecting piglet crushing and anti-crushing techniques. Livest Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2022.105080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Cheon SN, Jeong SH, Yoo GZ, Lim SJ, Kim CH, Jang GW, Jeon JH. Effect of alternative farrowing pens with temporary crating on the performance of lactating sows and their litters. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2022; 64:574-587. [PMID: 35709104 PMCID: PMC9184708 DOI: 10.5187/jast.2022.e36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
This study was performed to development the alternative farrowing pen (AFP) and
to investigate performance and behavior of lactating sows and their litter. A
total of 64 multiparous sows were randomly divided into two groups and were
allocated to farrowing crates (FCs) and AFPs. The AFPs contained a crate and
support bars that could be folded to provide the sows with extra space on day 5
postpartum. Behavior was recorded by charge-coupled device cameras and digital
video recorders, and the data were scanned every 2 min to obtain an
instantaneous behavioral sample. Farrowing systems did not affect feed intake,
back-fat thickness, litter size and piglet weight at birth and weaning
(p > 0.05). In addition, there were no differences in
the number of crushed piglets between the two farrowing systems
(p > 0.05). However, the weaning-to-estrus interval was
shorter in the sows of the AFPs than in thous of the FCs (p
< 0.05). The sows spent most of their time lying down during the lactating
period, at about 80% lateral recumbency and 10%–15% ventral recumbency.
The only significant differences were in the feeding and drinking behavior
between sows in the two farrowing systems (p < 0.05). The FC
sows displayed more feeding and drinking behavior than the AFP sows, especially
in the late lactating period (p < 0.05). Piglets in the FCs
tended to spend more time walking than piglets in the AFPs (p
< 0.05), whereas there were no differences in suckling and lying behavior
between piglets in the two farrowing systems (p > 0.05). It
is concluded that the AFPs with temporary crating until day 4 postpartum did not
negatively affect performance and crushed piglet compared with the FCs. It also
may improve animal welfare by allowing sows to move and turn around during the
lactating period. Further research is needed to find suitable housing designs to
enhance productivity and animal welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Nae Cheon
- Animal Welfare Research Team, National
Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Agriculture,
Wanju 55365, Korea
- Department of Animal Science, Gyeongsang
National University, Jinju 52828, Korea
| | - So Hee Jeong
- Animal Welfare Research Team, National
Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Agriculture,
Wanju 55365, Korea
| | - Guem Zoo Yoo
- Animal Welfare Research Team, National
Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Agriculture,
Wanju 55365, Korea
- Department of Animal Science, Jeonbuk
National University, Jeonju 54896, Korea
| | - Se Jin Lim
- Animal Welfare Research Team, National
Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Agriculture,
Wanju 55365, Korea
| | - Chan Ho Kim
- Animal Welfare Research Team, National
Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Agriculture,
Wanju 55365, Korea
| | - Gul Won Jang
- Animal Welfare Research Team, National
Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Agriculture,
Wanju 55365, Korea
| | - Jung Hwan Jeon
- Animal Welfare Research Team, National
Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Agriculture,
Wanju 55365, Korea
- Corresponding author: Jung Hwan Jeon, Animal
Welfare Research Team, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development
Agriculture, Wanju 55365, Korea., Tel: +82-63-238-7051, E-mail:
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Kinane O, Butler F, O’Driscoll K. Freedom to Grow: Improving Sow Welfare also Benefits Piglets. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:1181. [PMID: 33924235 PMCID: PMC8074778 DOI: 10.3390/ani11041181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Piglet mortality, especially due to crushing, is a concern in pig production. While current systems use farrowing crates to reduce mortality, they present major animal welfare problems for the sow. This study investigated the effects of free lactation farrowing accommodation on the welfare of piglets born and reared in such accommodation when compared with conventional farrowing crates. Piglets were born to sows in one of two farrowing accommodation treatments and followed from birth to slaughter. Treatments were conventional farrowing crates (control, n = 24 litters) and free lactation pens, which were larger and allowed the sow freedom of movement both pre and post farrowing, (free, n = 22 litters) (675 total piglets). Individual weights were recorded from birth to slaughter. Hoof score was recorded at weaning. Behaviour was recorded during lactation and during the weaner stage. Pre-weaning percentage mortality was equal in treatments (free = 15.95 ± 2.31, control = 14.42 ± 2.15, p = 0.61). Final weight was influenced by treatment (p < 0.05) with pigs from free lactation pens significantly heavier at 114.73 kg compared to 110.82 kg for control pigs. Free pigs took fewer days than control pigs to reach the target weight of 105 kg (147.6 vs. 149.23 days). Throughout lactation, fewer instances of damaging behaviour (ear and tail biting) were observed in free pigs (p = 0.07). Improved growth rates and a decrease in damaging behaviours provide evidence to suggest that pigs from free lactation pens experience improved welfare when compared with control pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orla Kinane
- Teagasc Pig Development Department, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Moore-Park, Fermoy P61 P302, Ireland;
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College Cork, Cork T23 TK30, Ireland;
| | - Fidelma Butler
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College Cork, Cork T23 TK30, Ireland;
| | - Keelin O’Driscoll
- Teagasc Pig Development Department, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Moore-Park, Fermoy P61 P302, Ireland;
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Ward SA, Kirkwood RN, Plush KJ. Are Larger Litters a Concern for Piglet Survival or an Effectively Manageable Trait? Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:E309. [PMID: 32079160 PMCID: PMC7070372 DOI: 10.3390/ani10020309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
As sows continue to be selected for greater prolificacy, it is important to review problems that arise in larger litters, and whether these issues can be appropriately managed. Although a proportion of piglets in larger litters can be born underweight, proper supervision around farrowing and adequate colostrum intake has the potential to improve the survival of low-birth-weight piglets and their ongoing growth to weaning. As larger litters can impart greater stress and discomfort on sows, implementing a low-stress environment leading up to parturition may improve sow performance and subsequent survival of piglets. Additionally, treating sows with anti-inflammatory compounds, either dietary or pharmacologically, shows some promise for alleviating sow discomfort and improving piglet survival in larger litters. Understanding that selecting sows for larger litters not only affects piglet survival but the well-being of the sow, the decision to continue selecting for larger litters, regardless of management strategies, remains a topic of ethical concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia A. Ward
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia;
| | - Roy N. Kirkwood
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia;
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Lohmeier R, Grimberg-Henrici C, Büttner K, Burfeind O, Krieter J. Farrowing pens used with and without short-term fixation impact on reproductive traits of sows. Livest Sci 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2019.103889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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8
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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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Nicolaisen T, Risch B, Lühken E, van Meegen C, Fels M, Kemper N. Comparison of three different farrowing systems: skin lesions and behaviour of sows with special regard to nursing behaviour in a group housing system for lactating sows. Animal 2019; 13:2612-2620. [PMID: 31104635 PMCID: PMC6801640 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731119000661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Revised: 02/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
While group housing (GH) is mandatory in the European Union for the greater part of pregnancy, single housing in farrowing crates (FCs) during lactation that restrict sows in most of their natural behaviour patterns is still practised on a large scale. Research is urgently needed to develop alternative farrowing systems that improve sows' welfare. Therefore, sows in three different farrowing systems - pens with FC, loose housing (LH) pens and GH for six sows - were compared regarding the level of skin injuries and their active and resting behaviour. A skin injury score was assessed for 15 body parts of 102 sows in six batches on 3 days (days 1, 14 and 34). In total, the active and resting behaviour of 77 sows in six batches was examined on 3 days (days 18, 25 and 32) between 0700 h and 1900 h by means of a scan sampling method. The suckling behaviour and the level of cross-suckling were analysed in GH by means of direct observation in four batches during three 4-h sampling periods (days 17, 24 and 31). No significant differences were found in total skin injuries when the sows entered the systems (day 1), but GH sows showed significantly higher total skin injuries compared to FC and LH sows in the middle (day 14) and at the end (day 34) of the lactation period. A significant difference between FC and LH sows was never seen. Differences were found for the proportion of different body postures between the three systems. The odds for lying in lateral recumbency versus standing and sitting versus standing were significantly higher for FC and LH sows compared to GH sows. Additionally, sows were significantly more likely to be standing as opposed to lying in lateral recumbency as the lactation period progressed. Cross-suckling was a frequent behaviour in GH, seen in 35.0% of all successful suckling bouts. However, only an average of 0.56 piglets per successful suckling bout was observed cross-suckling, suggesting only a few piglets were engaged in cross-suckling. In conclusion, the skin injury score was only moderately increased in GH compared to FC and LH and comparable to pregnant group-housed sows, both free farrowing systems seemed to be an environmental enrichment for lactating sows and good management cannot prevent the occurrence of cross-suckling in a GH system, but can probably reduce it.
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Affiliation(s)
- T. Nicolaisen
- Institute for Animal Hygiene, Animal Welfare and Farm Animal Behaviour, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany
| | - B. Risch
- Clinic for Swine, Small Ruminants and Forensic Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany
| | - E. Lühken
- Institute for Animal Hygiene, Animal Welfare and Farm Animal Behaviour, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany
| | - C. van Meegen
- Statistical Consulting and Analysis Center, Department of Statistics, TU Dortmund University, Vogelpothsweg 87, 44221 Dortmund, Germany
| | - M. Fels
- Institute for Animal Hygiene, Animal Welfare and Farm Animal Behaviour, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany
| | - N. Kemper
- Institute for Animal Hygiene, Animal Welfare and Farm Animal Behaviour, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany
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Immunocrit, serum amino acid concentrations and growth performance in light and heavy piglets depending on sow's farrowing system. Porcine Health Manag 2019; 5:14. [PMID: 31223484 PMCID: PMC6567442 DOI: 10.1186/s40813-019-0121-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The conventional farrowing crate is criticised due to the limited mobility of sows during farrowing and lactation. The present study aims to investigate the effects of three different farrowing systems on the performance of suckling neonates on the basis of immunocrit (IC; a quantification of immunoglobulins), serum amino acid (AA) concentrations and growth performance. Methods From a total of 149 sows placed in three housing systems (farrowing crate – FC, loose housing – LH, group housing – GH), 18 sows and their respective litters, formed the basis for a two-factorial study design (farrowing system and body weight (BW) of neonates). Therefore, also blood samples of two light (1.0–1.4 kg) and two heavy (≥ 1.4 kg) piglets were taken within 48 h post natum (p.n.) and on the day of weaning (day 26) to determine the immunocrit (IC; a quantification of immunoglobulins) and levels of serum AAs. Results The IC (FC: 0.148a, LH: 0.153a, GH: 0.117b) as well as serum levels of arginine, leucine, lysine, proline and threonine within 48 h p.n. were significantly lower in GH. Additionally, in general, these piglets showed (except for the first week of life) the lowest average daily weight gain. On the day of weaning, piglets in GH had the lowest levels of arginine (in mg/dL; FC: 3.68a, LH: 3.40ab, GH: 2.94b) and threonine (in mg/dL; FC: 3.59a, LH: 3.02ab, GH: 2.49b). The concentrations of leucine, lysine, proline and valine at this time were significantly lower in LH. Conclusion The observed significant lower IC indicates a lower Ig intake of piglets in the tested GH. No significant differences regarding the IC and AA levels within 48 h p.n. of the piglets in FC and LH could be seen. In principle, differences at weaning in AA levels were rather small, although the body weight of GH piglets at weaning was lower. Therefore, further research needs to clarify whether there are medium-term effects on health and performance. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s40813-019-0121-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Lohmeier R, Gimberg-Henrici C, Burfeind O, Krieter J. Suckling behaviour and health parameters of sows and piglets in free-farrowing pens. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2018.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Higher light intensity and mat temperature attract piglets to creep areas in farrowing pens. Animal 2019; 13:1696-1703. [PMID: 30604656 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731118003300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Loose farrowing pens have been considered as alternatives to crates to enhance sow welfare. A major concern with pen systems is often higher piglet pre-weaning mortality, especially due to crushing by the sow. An optimal management of light and mat surface temperature may promote greater piglet use of the creep, which has been associated with reduced piglet crushing. A total of 108 sows and their piglets were studied in sow welfare and piglet protection pens on a commercial piggery, across two replicates. Sows were randomly assigned to pens arranged within two creep treatments (bright creep: 300 lx v. dark creep: 4 lx), considering mat temperature as a covariate. Twelve sows and their litters in each treatment (24 in total) had their behaviour continuously recorded for 72-h postpartum (pp), and four focal piglets per litter were weighed on the first and third days pp. In situ behaviour observations were performed daily (from 0800 to 1700 h) on all sows and their litters, every 15 min over 72-h pp to record piglet time spent in the creep, latency to enter the creep for the first time, latency for the litter to remain in the creep for at least 10 min, and piglet and sow use of pen areas immediately in front of (A2) and farthest from the creep (A3). Piglets with access to bright creeps spent on average 7.2% more time (P<0.01) in the creeps than piglets in pens with Dark creeps. In addition, for each degree increase in mat temperature, piglets spent on average 2.1% more time (P<0.01) in the creep. Piglets in pens with bright creeps spent less time in A2 (P=0.04) and the least time in A3 (P=0.01). Light or mat temperature did not affect sow use of pen areas or piglet weight gain. Piglets with bright creeps tended (P=0.06) to take longer to enter the creep for the first time after birth, but the latency for 30.0% of the litter to remain clustered for 10 min tended (P=0.08) to be shorter in bright compared to dark creeps. Overall, piglet use of the creep increased with warm mat temperatures and brightness, which should be further investigated as potential strategies to promote piglet safety and reduce crushing in pen farrowing systems.
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Nystén M, Orro T, Peltoniemi O. Systemic inflammatory response to shoulder ulcers and lack of preventive effect of postpartum pain medication with ketoprofen in sows. Livest Sci 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2018.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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Chidgey KL, Morel PC, Stafford KJ, Barugh IW. Sow and piglet behavioral associations in farrowing pens with temporary crating and in farrowing crates. J Vet Behav 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2017.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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15
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Daily food intakes and feeding strategies of sows given food ad libitum and allocated to two different space allowances in a communal farrowing system over parturition and during lactation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1017/s1357729800055272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
AbstractA total of 16 multiparous (range 2nd to 9th parity) Camborough sows were housed over parturition and during lactation in a group farrowing system. Two replicates of four sows were studied in the large pen (L) and two further replicates studied in the small pen (S) configuration, providing 13•4 m2 and 8•6 m2 per sow, respectively. A lactation diet providing 14 MJ/kg digestible energy (DE) and 180 g/kg crude protein was supplied ad libitum via a sow-operated feeder, adapted to facilitate the calculation of individual food intakes. The influence of environmental, physical, and production factors upon food intakes and feeding strategies was investigated. Daily food intakes of 7•69 (s.e. 0•31) kg and 7•72 (s.e. 0•35) kg were achieved during lactation by sows in the L and S pen configurations, respectively, accomplished by sows taking a series of small meals throughout the day. Sows in the S pen area made fewer visits to the feeder and spent less time per day feeding than sows in the L pen area. However, more food was consumed per visit by the S sows, resulting in similar daily food intakes in both treatment groups. There was a depression in lactation food intakes of sows housed at a mean daily ambient temperature of 17•5ºC compared with the other sow groups. The majority of sows consumed energy well in excess of their predicted requirements during lactation, whilst one sow in the L and two in the S pen areas had intakes within ±3•4 MJ DE of predictions. Only two of the L sows had food intakes that produced an energy deficit. In the L pen area, two distinct peaks of feeding activity occurred from 09:00 to 13:00 h and from 15:00 to 23:00 h that accounted for 0•77 of the total feeding time. In contrast, in the S pen configuration, one prolonged period of feeding occurred from 09:00 to 22:00 h accounting for 0•88 of total feeding time. The results show that S sows adapted their feeding patterns to maintain similar daily intakes to those of L sows, thus demonstrating that an ad libitum food supply enabled sows to obtain individual nutritional requirements in a communal farrowing system.
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The influence of sow behaviour on piglet mortality due to crushing in an open farrowing system. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1017/s135772980005551x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThe objectives of this study were to establish what changes in posture by sows carried a high risk of piglet crushing in a group farrowing system during early lactation and also to determine what factors influenced the risk of crushing during lying down. A total of 24 Large White ✕ Landrace sows were studied during the first 7 days of lactation in a group farrowing system. Cross-fostering was not carried out so as not to influence behaviour. Dead piglets were removed and cause of death ascertained from external observation and post-mortem examination. Sow and piglet behaviour was video-recorded continuously. A total of 268 piglets were born alive, with 67 liveborn piglets subsequently dying during the 7-day experimental period, 50 as a result of crushing. A total of 7425 posture changes were analysed and 11 types of posture change were identified, the most dangerous being lying down from standing and those involving swapping sides, or rolling over, whilst lying.Dangerous events during lying down were more likely to occur (1) in the first 24 h after farrowing, (2) when the sow lay down in the middle of the pen, (3) when the sow lay down without carrying out much piglet-directed pre-lying behaviour and (4) when the piglets were spread out but near to the sow. The amount of pre-lying behaviour decreased over time and crushing mortality also decreased. The results confirm that the piglets are most vulnerable to crushing during the first 24 h of life, when they are spending much of their time near the udder and have relatively poor mobility. Co-ordination of behaviour between the sow and her litter is important to reduce the risk of crushing. It is also important that the design of open farrowing systems incorporates knowledge about how crushing deaths occur in order to improve piglet welfare.
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A comparison of the behaviour and performance of sows and piglets in crates and oval pens. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1017/s135772980005089x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
AbstractA comparison was made of sow lying behaviour, piglet aggregation behaviour and performance in crates (no. = 10) and oval pens (no. = 8). Twenty-four hour time-lapse video tapes were made and a farrowing day defined for each sow by noting the 24-h period during which the sow gave birth (09:00 to 09:00 h). Each sow and litter, balanced for parity and time of year, was analysed from 12:00 to 20:00 h during the 24 h immediately following this day. The following analyses were conducted: (1) the number and type of lying behaviour; (2) each litter was scanned every 10 min and at each lying event the number of piglets within 0·3 m of the sow noted; two indices were then calculated, based on the mean of the 10-min scans and the mean for the lying events, for each sow expressed as a proportion of the total litter size. Any dead piglets were removed and cause of mortality established by post-mortem examination. Production data showed that there was no significant difference between litter size at birth and at weaning but overall level of mortality was higher in the pen compared with the crate due to crushing. The majority of crushing events occurred in the first 3 days after farrowing (crate 75%; oval pen 64%). The total number of lying events and related posture changes did not differ between systems; only ‘roll-over’ events (movement from lateral on one side to the other within 10 s) were higher in the oval pen. There was no difference in the proportion of aggregating piglets at the 10-min scans or the lying events. Increased crushing mortality in the pen does not appear to be due to the aggregation behaviour of piglets but to the increased number of sow roll-over behaviours.
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Condous PC, Plush KJ, Tilbrook AJ, van Wettere WHEJ. Reducing sow confinement during farrowing and in early lactation increases piglet mortality1. J Anim Sci 2016; 94:3022-9. [DOI: 10.2527/jas.2015-0145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- P. C. Condous
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia
| | - K. J. Plush
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia
| | - A. J. Tilbrook
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia
| | - W. H. E. J. van Wettere
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia
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Confinement of sows for different periods during lactation: effects on behaviour and lesions of sows and performance of piglets. Animal 2015; 9:1373-8. [PMID: 25994275 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731115000889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Alternatives to farrowing crates with continuous confinement of the sow are urgently needed because the animal welfare is negatively impacted. Given the increase of herd sizes, practical experience with loose-housing is needed to force the implementation of these systems in the field. Next to aspects of labour efficiency, detrimental piglet mortality rates that may occur during the first days postpartum (pp) is a major criticism. Therefore, loose-housing after a crating period limited to the first days pp might be a feasible alternative to improve welfare under intensive production conditions. The aim was to investigate the effect of crating sows during lactation for different periods on their behaviour and integument alterations and on piglets' performance. Gilts from a commercial herd were observed from 5 to 26 days pp and housed in farrowing crates (1.85×2.50 m) that could be altered between confinement crates and loose-housing pens. Animals were divided into three groups, that were either crated continuously from birth until weaning (Group A, n=55), until 14 days pp (Group B; n=54) or 7 days pp (Group C, n=59). The behaviour of six randomly selected gilts per group was video recorded from 5 to 26 days pp and analysed by time sampling technique. Lesions on the legs, shoulder and lumbar vertebra were scored on days 7, 14 and 25 pp. Piglets were weighed weekly, causes of losses recorded and weight losses of gilts measured. Not different between groups (P>0.05), animals spent 72 to 76% lying laterally, 14 to 17% lying in abdominal or semi-abdominal position, 9 to 10% standing and 1 to 3% sitting. B-sows were lying longer in week 3 and 4 of lactation compared to A- and C-sows (P0.05), whereas almost 90% of the losses occurred in the first week pp. In conclusion, loose-housing of lactating gilts after a reduced postnatal crating period of 7 days affected neither the activity level of the gilts and lesions on the integument nor pre-weaning mortality. Therefore, it is recommended to allow sows to move around to some extent during the later lactation period.
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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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Hales J, Moustsen VA, Nielsen MBF, Hansen CF. Individual physical characteristics of neonatal piglets affect preweaning survival of piglets born in a noncrated system. J Anim Sci 2014; 91:4991-5003. [PMID: 24078619 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2012-5740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of individual physical characteristics on preweaning survival and growth of piglets born in a noncrate system. Data were collected from 3,402 neonatal piglets from 203 Landrace × Yorkshire sows housed in noncrate pens in a commercial Danish sow herd. Piglets were categorized into groups according to their survivability: surviving to weaning (SURV), stillborn (STILL), or dead between birth and weaning (DBW), which was subdivided into dead d 0 to 1 after farrowing (DEAD1) or dead d 2 to 26 after farrowing (DEAD26). Linear models were used to determine which physical characteristics affected survivability and growth of piglets. Results showed that characteristics related to the individual piglets had a greater degree of explanatory power in relation to survival than variables related to the sow. Survival of piglets increased if piglets were females (P < 0.001), had a greater body mass index (P < 0.001), and were born to sows of parity 3 or more (P = 0.017). Piglets with a greater birth weight were more likely to survive (P < 0.001), but birth weight was inferior to body mass index in explaining differences between SURV and DBW. Piglets that died 2 to 26 d after birth had a lower birth weight (P < 0.001), were born to sows of parity 1 or 2 (P = 0.014), and were born after a shorter gestation (P = 0.011) compared with SURV. Piglets that died on d 0 to 1 after birth had a lower body mass index (P < 0.001), displayed a greater degree of growth restriction (P = 0.004), and were born in large litters (P = 0.005). The gender of the piglets affected survivability at both d 0 to 1 (P < 0.001) and d 2 to 26 (P < 0.001). Piglets in DEAD1 differed from STILL by having a shorter crown to rump length (P < 0.001), a birth weight that deviated more from the mean weight of the litter (P = 0.001), and being more likely to be born before d 116 of gestation (P = 0.008). The only physical characteristic that was important for growth performance in the suckling period was birth weight (P < 0.001), yet using only birth weight as an indicator for survivability was too simplistic. The results of this study emphasize that individual characteristics of neonatal piglets could serve as indicators of survivability of piglets born in noncrate systems; however, the results suggest that the importance of characteristics differed in different periods of the preweaning period.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Hales
- Centre for Herd-oriented Education, Research and Development (HERD), Department of Large Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Groennegaardsvej 2, 1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
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Melišová M, Illmann G, Chaloupková H, Bozděchová B. Sow postural changes, responsiveness to piglet screams, and their impact on piglet mortality in pens and crates. J Anim Sci 2014; 92:3064-72. [PMID: 24778328 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2013-7340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Free farrowing pens (pens) improve the welfare of sows but may increase sow activity and negatively influence piglet production. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of pens and crates on sow postural changes, piglet trapping, sow responses to piglet screams, piglet mortality, and piglet BW gain. It was predicted that provision of greater space (in pens) would increase not only the frequency of sow postural changes and the probability of trappisng but also sow responses to the screams of piglets; thus, the outcome would be no differences in fatal piglet crushing or overall mortality between the housing systems. Sows were randomly moved to either a farrowing pen (n = 20) or farrowing crate (n = 18). Sow behavior was recorded and analyzed for 72 h from the birth of the first piglet (BFP). Sow postural changes included rolling from a ventral to lateral position and vice versa and going from standing to sitting, standing to lying, and sitting to lying. Occurrences of piglet trapping and sow responsiveness to real crushing situations were analyzed. Sow responsiveness was assessed in response to audio playbacks (PB) of piglet screams on d 3 postpartum (48 to 72 h after BFP; PB crush calls) and real piglet crushing during the first 72 h after BFP (real crush calls). Piglet BW gain was estimated 24 h after BFP, piglet BW was recorded at weaning, and piglet crushing and piglet mortality were recorded during the 72 h after BFP. Data were analyzed using PROC MIXED and PROC GENMOD of SAS. Sows in pens showed more postural changes (P = 0.04) and tended to have greater incidences of piglet trapping (P = 0.07) than those in crates. Sow response to PB crush calls was greater in pens (P = 0.04) but did not differ for real crush calls between pens and crates (P = 0.62). There was no effect on the probability of piglet crushing (P = 0.38) and mortality (P = 0.41) during the 72 h after BFP nor in piglet mortality at weaning (P = 0.81) between pens and crates. Piglet BW gain at 24 h after BFP (P = 0.01) and piglet BW at weaning (P = 0.02) were greater in pens. Sows in pens showed more postural changes and tended to trap more piglets; however, the response to real crush calls did not differ between the two housing systems. Despite this, there was no increase in piglet crushing or mortality in pens, which might be influenced by the better piglet body condition observed in pens, which in turn could influence their ability to avoid crushing by the sow.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Melišová
- Department of Ethology, Institute of Animal Science, Prague- Uhříněves, Czech Republic, 104 00
| | - G Illmann
- Department of Ethology, Institute of Animal Science, Prague- Uhříněves, Czech Republic, 104 00
| | - H Chaloupková
- Department of Ethology, Institute of Animal Science, Prague- Uhříněves, Czech Republic, 104 00
| | - B Bozděchová
- Department of Ethology, Institute of Animal Science, Prague- Uhříněves, Czech Republic, 104 00
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Adeleye O, Brett M, Blomfield D, Guy J, Edwards S. The effect of algal biomass supplementation in maternal diets on piglet survival in two housing systems. Livest Sci 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2013.12.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Higher preweaning mortality in free farrowing pens compared with farrowing crates in three commercial pig farms. Animal 2014; 8:113-20. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731113001869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Bohnenkamp AL, Traulsen I, Meyer C, Müller K, Krieter J. Group housing for lactating sows with electronically controlled crates: 1. Reproductive traits, body condition, and feed intake. J Anim Sci 2013; 91:3413-9. [PMID: 23798526 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2012-5255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim was to compare a group housing system (GROUP) and a conventional single housing (SINGLE) for lactating sows with regard to the performance of sows and piglets. Data of 132 cross-breed sows were collected in 11 batches with 6 sows in GROUP and SINGLE in each batch. The GROUP had single pens (4.7 m(2)) with electronically controlled crates and a shared running area (13 m(2)). The sows in GROUP were retained in the crates 3 d prepartum until 1 d postpartum. Piglets were able to leave the single pens on d 5 postpartum. Recorded traits per litter included the number of piglets born alive and weaned, piglet losses, and individual BW at birth and weaning. In addition, body condition and back fat thickness before and after lactation (26 d) and the daily feed intake of the sows were measured. Gilts and sows were analyzed separately. The reproductive traits did not differ significantly (P > 0.05) between the farrowing systems with exception of the weaning weights (GROUP = 7.6 ± 0.12 kg vs. SINGLE = 8.1 ± 0.12 kg; P < 0.05). Group housed and SINGLE sows had 14.4 ± 0.47 and 14.6 ± 0.45 piglets born alive, respectively. In both housing systems, sows weaned 11.4 piglets (SEM = 0.14 and 0.13 for GROUP and SINGLE), respectively. Most piglet losses (72%) occurred during the first 3 d postpartum. At this point in time, piglets in GROUP and SINGLE were housed in single pens. In the single pens, GROUP sows could leave the farrowing crate whereas SINGLE sows were fixed in crates during the whole lactation. In total, piglet losses were not significantly different during lactation between GROUP and SINGLE treatments (2.2 ± 0.05 and 2.4 ± 0.05 piglets per litter, respectively). Sows housed in GROUP had a significantly lower (P < 0.05) BCS (2.2 ± 0.05) after lactation compared with SINGLE sows (BCS = 2.4 ± 0.05). This development could not be verified using the back fat thickness value at weaning (GROUP = 14.4 ± 0.25 mm vs. SINGLE = 14.6 ± 0.23 mm). Daily feed intake was significantly greater for GROUP sows (6.4 ± 0.08 kg per day) than SINGLE sows (6.15 ± 0.08 kg per day; P < 0.05). In conclusion, the performance of GROUP and SINGLE sows was similar with the exception of lighter weaning weights in GROUP housing.
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Affiliation(s)
- A-L Bohnenkamp
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, Christian-Albrechts-University, Olshausenstraße 40, D-24098 Kiel, Germany.
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Abstract
To reduce mortality among suckling piglets, lactating sows are traditionally housed in farrowing crates. Alternatively, lactating sows can be housed in farrowing pens where the sow is loose to ensure more behavioural freedom and consequently a better welfare for the sow, although under commercial conditions, farrowing pens have been associated with increased piglet mortality. Most suckling piglets that die do so within the first week of life, so potentially lactating sows do not have to be restrained during the entire lactation period. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to investigate whether confinement of the sow for a limited number of days after farrowing would affect piglet mortality. A total of 210 sows (Danish Landrace × Danish Yorkshire) were farrowed in specially designed swing-aside combination farrowing pens measuring 2.6 m × 1.8 m (combi-pen), where the sows could be kept loose or in a crate. The sows were either: (a) loose during the entire experimental period, (b) crated from days 0 to 4 postpartum, (c) crated from days 0 to 7 postpartum or (d) crated from introduction to the farrowing pen to day 7 postpartum. The sows and their subsequent litters were studied from introduction to the combi-pen ∼1 week before expected farrowing and until 10 days postpartum. Confinement period of the sow failed to affect the number of stillborn piglets; however, sows that were crated after farrowing had fewer live-born mortality deaths (P < 0.001) compared with the sows that were loose during the experimental period. The increased piglet mortality among the loose sows was because of higher mortality in the first 4 days after farrowing. In conclusion, the current study demonstrated that crating the sow for 4 days postpartum was sufficient to reduce piglet mortality.
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Wientjes J, Soede N, van der Peet-Schwering C, van den Brand H, Kemp B. Piglet uniformity and mortality in large organic litters: Effects of parity and pre-mating diet composition. Livest Sci 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2011.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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29
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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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Alternative farrowing accommodation: welfare and economic aspects of existing farrowing and lactation systems for pigs. Animal 2012; 6:96-117. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731111001224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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Gu Z, Gao Y, Lin B, Zhong Z, Liu Z, Wang C, Li B. Impacts of a freedom farrowing pen design on sow behaviours and performance. Prev Vet Med 2011; 102:296-303. [DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2011.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2011] [Revised: 06/27/2011] [Accepted: 08/02/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Pedersen M, Moustsen V, Nielsen M, Kristensen A. Improved udder access prolongs duration of milk letdown and increases piglet weight gain. Livest Sci 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2011.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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Alternative farrowing systems: design criteria for farrowing systems based on the biological needs of sows and piglets. Animal 2011; 5:580-600. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731110002272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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Vasdal G, Glærum M, Melišová M, Bøe KE, Broom DM, Andersen IL. Increasing the piglets’ use of the creep area—A battle against biology? Appl Anim Behav Sci 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2010.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Vasdal G, Andersen IL, Pedersen LJ. Piglet use of the creep area—Effects of breeding value and farrowing environment. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2009.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Drying and warming immediately after birth may reduce piglet mortality in loose-housed sows. Animal 2009; 3:592-7. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731108003650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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38
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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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Piglet mortality on farms using farrowing systems with or without crates. Anim Welf 2007. [DOI: 10.1017/s0962728600031511] [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
AbstractCrating sows in farrowing systems greatly restricts their normal behaviour, which is usually justified by the assumption that piglet mortality is higher with loose-housed sows. Based on experiments showing that this is not the case, farrowing crates were banned in Switzerland in 1997. Since then, many farms have introduced loose farrowing systems, enabling a comparison of piglet mortality in farrowing systems with and without crates based on a large sample size. Data of a sow-recording scheme (UFA2000) were analysed using generalised linear mixed-effects models with an underlying Poisson distribution. In 2002 and 2003, the average total piglet mortality on 173 farms (n = 18,824 litters) with loose farrowing systems amounted to 1.40 piglets per litter and did not differ from that of 482 farms (n = 44,837 litters) with crates (1.42 piglets per litter). Nevertheless, the number of crushed piglets was significantly higher in pens with loose-housed sows (0.62 versus 0.52 piglets per litter), whereas the number of piglets that died for other reasons was significantly higher in crates (0.78 versus 0.89 piglets per litter). Total piglet mortality was influenced by litter size at birth, age of the sow and season. Consequently, evaluation of the reproductive data of commercial farms shows that no more piglet losses occur in loose farrowing pens, common nowadays in Switzerland, than in farrowing pens with crates, and that litter size at birth is the main influence on piglet losses.
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Andersen IL, Tajet GM, Haukvik IA, Kongsrud S, Bøe KE. Relationship between postnatal piglet mortality, environmental factors and management around farrowing in herds with loose-housed, lactating sows. ACTA AGR SCAND A-AN 2007. [DOI: 10.1080/09064700601159626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Toscano M, Lay D. Parsing the characteristics of a simulated udder to determine relative attractiveness to piglets in the 72h following parturition. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2005. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2004.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Consistency of piglet crushing by sows. Anim Welf 2005. [DOI: 10.1017/s0962728600028918] [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
AbstractPiglet mortality is a major welfare and economic problem in the pig industry. Despite the use of farrowing crates, piglet crushing remains a major contributor to pre-weaning piglet mortality, which is typically around 12%. Our aims in this study were to quantify variability between sows and consistency across parities in crushing mortality, and to examine the effect of the environment on variability. In our first study, we compared the variability in crushing mortality in 122 primiparous sows (gilts) that farrowed in crates (71) or open pens (51). Certain sows crushed more or fewer piglets than expected by chance. Crushing was more frequent and more variable in pens compared to crates, indicating that crates may mask differences between sows. In our second study, we recorded piglet mortality for 125 sows, which farrowed in crates over several (4–9) parities. After adjusting for litter size, litter weight and parity effects, consistent individual differences between sows were evident. The repeatability of crushing was estimated at 0.14, with estimates of 0.18 and 0.05 for stillborns and total liveborn mortality, respectively. Although these repeatabilities are relatively low, there was a high degree of phenotypic variance (eg sows crushed between 0 and 30.8% of their piglets). Given that sows show some consistency in piglet mortality over parities, this could be used to inform culling decisions. Additionally, if differences in piglet crushing between sows have a genetic component, a breeding programme might reduce mortality from crushing. Because crates restrict maternal behaviour, genetic selection in this system may have relaxed selection for good maternal behaviour. Selection for reduced piglet mortality, and thus improved maternal abilities, could remove a major obstacle to the wider adoption of less restrictive farrowing systems, with positive welfare consequences for the sow and piglets.
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Damm B, Forkman B, Pedersen L. Lying down and rolling behaviour in sows in relation to piglet crushing. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2005. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2004.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Peri-natal environmental effects on maternal behaviour, pituitary and adrenal activation, and the progress of parturition in the primiparous sow. Anim Welf 2004. [DOI: 10.1017/s0962728600026919] [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
AbstractMaternal behaviour in free-ranging sows is normally performed in an isolated nest that the sow has built during the pre-parturient period. Consequently there is much concern over the use of restrictive farrowing crates, in which manipulable substrates are often not provided, for parturient sows under commercial conditions. This study examined the impact of the provision of space and substrate on the performance of maternal behaviour by gilts (primiparous sows) on physiological indicators of stress and on the progress of parturition. Gilts had an indwelling jugular catheter implanted 12 days before their expected farrowing date. At 5 days before expected farrowing, 34 gilts were placed in one of four farrowing treatments: crate without straw (C, n = 8), crate with straw (CS, n = 9), pen without straw (P, n = 9) or pen with straw (PS, n = 8). Behavioural observations of gilts and piglets were made during an 8 h period after the expulsion of the first piglet. Blood samples were taken via a catheter extension to minimise disturbance throughout the parturition period. Gilts in all treatments were most active in the first 2 h: performing more standing/walking, substrate-directed and piglet-directed behaviour. This active phase was followed by inactivity and passivity, as has been seen in free-ranging sows. However, this temporal profile of behaviour was more pronounced in the penned gilts (P and PS), which were more active during the first 2 h than the crated gilts (C and CS). Gilts in crates spent longer sitting throughout the 8 h period and tended to show more savaging of their piglets. Savaging gilts were found to be more active and responsive to piglets. The provision of straw did not alter gilt behaviour but did alter piglet behaviour, with piglets that were born into environments with no straw (C and P) spending more time next to the gilt's udder. The provision of straw increased the length of parturition (CS and PS), but this did not have detrimental effects on piglet survival. Plasma cortisol was unaffected by space or substrate, however, plasma ACTH was found to be highest in C gilts during the second hour of parturition. Plasma oxytocin was unaffected by space or substrate, however, there was a positive relationship between plasma oxytocin and unresponsiveness to piglets. In conclusion, it appears that farrowing crates thwart interactions between the gilt and her piglets, and that the provision of space during parturition, irrespective of straw availability, facilitates the performance of maternal behaviour that more closely resembles that performed by free-ranging sows.
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Sow activity level, frequency of standing-to-lying posture changes and anti-crushing behaviour—within sow-repeatability and interactions with nursing behaviour and piglet performance. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2003. [DOI: 10.1016/s0168-1591(03)00109-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Bates R, Edwards D, Korthals R. Sow performance when housed either in groups with electronic sow feeders or stalls. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2003. [DOI: 10.1016/s0301-6226(02)00119-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Thodberg K, Jensen KH, Herskin MS. Nursing behaviour, postpartum activity and reactivity in sows. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2002. [DOI: 10.1016/s0168-1591(02)00023-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Spinka M, Illmann G, Andersson M, Schuurman T, Jensen P. Dimensions of maternal behaviour characteristics in domestic and wildxdomestic crossbred sows. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2000; 70:99-114. [PMID: 11080554 DOI: 10.1016/s0168-1591(00)00151-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
We examined the maternal behaviour of seven domestic and seven wildxdomestic primiparous sows during 10 days post partum to investigate two questions: (1) Did maternal behaviour change during domestication? (2) Can the interindividual variability of maternal behaviour be subsumed into a few dimensions of maternal temperament? We recorded: (a) willingness to leave the nest for food on Day 2; (b) reaction to a playback of squeezed piglet distress vocalisation on Day 2; (c) spontaneous nursing behaviour and spontaneous lying-down behaviour on Day 5 (from an overnight video recording); (d) reactions to playbacks of various piglet distress vocalisations on Day 6 and (e) reactions to a human in the 'nest' with piglets on Day 9. Moreover, data on baseline cortisol saliva concentration and its increase during a brief transportation period and novel environment challenge at the age of 5 months were available. Crossbred sows did not differ from domestic ones in any aspect of maternal behaviour except for a higher tendency to terminate final massage during nursings and a higher frequency of changing posture from lying to standing and back during the night. Factor analysis (based on correlation matrix of 11 behaviour and cortisol variables calculated for all 14 sows after removing the effect of breed) indicated that 82% of the variability in the data could be explained by three factors: first, 'calmness' on which low night time frequency of major posture changes, carefulness of lying-down behaviour and high propensity to remain in nursing position after milk ejection loaded positively while cortisol concentrations during challenge loaded negatively; second, 'protectiveness' with high loadings of the reaction scores to the playbacks of piglet distress calls and the human presence near the piglets; and third, 'nursing activity' which was strongly positively associated with nursing frequency, and negatively with the proportion of nutritive nursings and baseline cortisol values. The results indicate that most aspects of pig maternal behaviour have not been significantly changed by domestication and that substantial variability in maternal behaviour exists between sows, perhaps in the form of several behaviour characteristics which encompass both behaviour and endocrine profiles of the sows.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Spinka
- Group of Ethology, Research Institute of Animal Production, CZ-104 01 Prague-, Uhríneves, Czech Republic
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Weary DM, Phillips PA, Pajor EA, Fraser D, Thompson BK. Crushing of piglets by sows: effects of litter features, pen features and sow behaviour. Appl Anim Behav Sci 1998. [DOI: 10.1016/s0168-1591(98)00187-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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