1
|
Bruun TS, Pedersen TF, Thorup F, Strathe AV. Selecting the optimal strategies when using nurse sows for supernumerous piglets. Mol Reprod Dev 2023; 90:546-560. [PMID: 37210733 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23688] [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: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Hyper-prolific sows frequently do not have a sufficient number of functional teats for their piglets to nurse which has led to the use of nurse sows to manage these surplus piglets. This review discusses strategies for using nurse sows and factors that influence preweaning survival and weight gain of their litters, as well as those that affect their subsequent rebreeding performance. Rearing piglets using a nurse sow can be as successful as piglets reared with their biological mother and is thus a powerful management tool to decrease preweaning piglet mortality. Selecting a young sow as nurse sow is beneficial for piglet survival; however, piglets nursing first parity sows often have a lower daily weight gain than piglets nursing multiparous sows. A litter of uniform surplus piglets is preferably handled using the two-step nurse sow strategy. A consequence of nonuniform litters will most likely be an increased mortality and decreased weaning weight among the smallest piglets within a litter. The subsequent fertility of nurse sows is not compromised. There is an increased risk of lactational oestrus when using nurse sows leading to an increased weaning-to-oestrus interval; however, litter size in nurse sows is identical or even moderately higher in the subsequent parity compared with nonnurse sows.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Anja Varmløse Strathe
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Baxter EM, Hall SA, Farish M, Donbavand J, Brims M, Jack M, Lawrence AB, Camerlink I. Piglets' behaviour and performance in relation to sow characteristics. Animal 2023; 17:100699. [PMID: 36657298 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2022.100699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The importance of maternal care in commercial pig production is largely ignored. The sow has little possibility to interact with her piglets, and piglets are often subjected to early weaning or artificial rearing. This study aimed to investigate aspects of physiological and behavioural maternal provisioning that contribute to offspring outcomes. We hypothesised that better maternal care and nutritional provisioning would relate positively to piglet immunity, growth and behaviour. Nineteen sows and their litters were studied in free-farrowing pens. Oxytocin and tumour necrosis factor-α in colostrum/milk and salivary cortisol were sampled from sows throughout lactation. Sows were assessed for dominance rank, response to handling, maternal defensiveness, suckling initiation and termination, posture and sow-piglet contact. Piglets were weighed, measured for body mass index (BMI) and sampled for blood (Immunoglobulin G; at birth). After weaning, they experienced a human approach test (HAT) and novel object test. Correlations were explored between individual sow characteristics, individual piglet outcomes, and between sow characteristics and piglet outcomes averaged by litter. Significant correlations between sow and piglet factors were analysed at the litter level in mixed models with piglet outcomes as response variables and sow characteristics as predictor variables, while accounting for sow parity, litter size and batch. Litters grew faster when their sow had lower cortisol values (P = 0.03), while sows with lower cortisol levels had more successful suckling bouts and engaged in greater amounts of sow-piglet contact. Litters had a lower BMI at weaning when the sow had a higher milk fat percentage at d3. Litters of the most dominant sows took longer to approach the human in the HAT, while litters of sows with higher cortisol at d0 took longer to approach the novel object when assessed on correlations (r = 0.82, P < 0.001) but not when the model accounted for parity and litter size (P = 0.35). Only some of the measured nutritive and non-nutritive sow factors influenced litter performance and behaviour, with parity and litter size also playing a role. Given the continued increase in litter size, but also the interest in loose-housed lactation pens for sows, further research on sows' maternal investment and how it can be optimised is warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma M Baxter
- Animal and Veterinary Sciences, SRUC, Peter Wilson Building King's Buildings, W Mains Rd, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, UK
| | - Sarah A Hall
- Animal and Veterinary Sciences, SRUC, Peter Wilson Building King's Buildings, W Mains Rd, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, UK
| | - Marianne Farish
- Animal and Veterinary Sciences, SRUC, Peter Wilson Building King's Buildings, W Mains Rd, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, UK
| | - Jo Donbavand
- Animal and Veterinary Sciences, SRUC, Peter Wilson Building King's Buildings, W Mains Rd, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, UK
| | - Mark Brims
- Animal and Veterinary Sciences, SRUC, Peter Wilson Building King's Buildings, W Mains Rd, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, UK
| | - Mhairi Jack
- Animal and Veterinary Sciences, SRUC, Peter Wilson Building King's Buildings, W Mains Rd, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, UK
| | - Alistair B Lawrence
- Animal and Veterinary Sciences, SRUC, Peter Wilson Building King's Buildings, W Mains Rd, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, UK
| | - Irene Camerlink
- Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Ul. Postepu 36A, 05-552 Jastrzebiec, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Cheng Z, Zhou ST, Zhang XH, Fu Q, Yang Y, Ji WB, Liu HG. Effects of early intermittent maternal separation on behavior, physiological, and growth performance in piglets. J Anim Sci 2023; 101:skad122. [PMID: 37094606 PMCID: PMC10195192 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skad122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
In pig production, the management of piglets by batch lactation due to the increase in litter sizes of sows may result in intermittent early neonatal maternal separation (NMS). We speculated that NMS may affect the piglets cognitive growth performance and health. To determine the extent of the effect, 12 litters of crossbred piglets (Large White × Duroc × Min-pig) were used in this trial. Piglets in the control (Con) group (n = 6) were given a standard feeding method during lactation. Piglets in the experimental group (n = 6) were subjected to the NMS model, in which sows were led out of the enclosure with food every day (8:00-11:00 and 13:00-16:00) starting from postnatal day (PND) 7. During the separation, the piglets were supplemented with milk. All experimental piglets were weaned on PND 35. The piglets were observed for aggression, play, mutual sniffing, and exploratory behavior on PNDs 7, 8, 21, 22, 34, 35, 38, 39, 51, 52, 64, and 65. Physiological indicators, namely serum adrenaline, cortisol, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-4, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were measured on PNDs 35, 38, and 65, while piglet growth performance was evaluated during suckling and 1 month after weaning. The results showed that aggressive behavior in the MS group was significantly higher than that in the Con group (P < 0.05). Playful and mutual sniffing behaviors in the MS group were significantly lower than those in the Con group except for PNDs 38 and 39 (P < 0.05). Active exploratory behavior in the MS group was significantly higher than that in the Con group on PNDs 7 and 8, and PNDs 21 and 22 (P < 0.05). The frequency of belly-nosing behavior was significantly higher in the MS group than that in the Con group except for PNDs 64 and 65 (P < 0.05). Compared with the Con group, epinephrine, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α concentrations on PNDs 35, 38, and 65 were significantly increased in the MS group (P < 0.01), while IL-4 concentration was significantly decreased (PND 35: P < 0.05; PNDs 38 and 65: P < 0.01). Compared with the Con group, the piglet diarrhea rate in the MS group during suckling was significantly increased (P < 0.01), the weaning weight was significantly decreased (P < 0.05), and it had no significant effect on the body weight at the end of the trial (P > 0.05). In conclusion, the early intermittent NMS created stress and affected the growth performance of piglets during suckling. However, the growth rate was improved by compensatory measures during late weaning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Cheng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Changjiang, Harbin, Heilongjiang, P.R. China
| | - Si-Tong Zhou
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Changjiang, Harbin, Heilongjiang, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Hong Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Changjiang, Harbin, Heilongjiang, P.R. China
| | - Qin Fu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Changjiang, Harbin, Heilongjiang, P.R. China
| | - Yue Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Changjiang, Harbin, Heilongjiang, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Bo Ji
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Changjiang, Harbin, Heilongjiang, P.R. China
| | - Hong-Gui Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Changjiang, Harbin, Heilongjiang, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Swine Facilities Engineering, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Changjiang, Harbin, Heilongjiang, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Correa F, Luise D, Negrini C, Ruggeri R, Bosi P, Trevisi P. Effect of two milk supplements and two ways of administration on growth performance, welfare and fecal microbial ecology of suckling piglets. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1050414. [PMID: 36923055 PMCID: PMC10008956 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1050414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of two MS formulas, DanMilk™ (AB Neo, Denmark) (MS1) and Neopigg® RescueMilk (Provimi, Netherlands) (MS2) administered manually and to compare two ways of administration (manual vs automatic) of MS1 on growth performance, health, fecal microbial profile, behavior, and skin lesions of piglets during suckling and post-weaning. Methods Forty litters (528 piglets) were divided into 4 groups: 1) Control group receiving no MS (CON); 2) MS1 administered automatically (A-MS1); 3) MS1 administered manually (Ma-MS1) 4) MS2 administered manually (Ma-MS2). All groups had access to sow milk and creep feed. On day 5 after birth (d0), litters were equalized (13.2 piglets/litter ± 0.8 SD), thereafter no cross-fostering was allowed. Piglets were weighed at day 5 after birth (d0), at the end of milk supplementation (d14), at weaning (d21 of the trial, 26 days of age) and ten days post-weaning (d31). Piglet welfare was assessed using behavioral and lesion measures at d4 and d10. Feces were collected at d14 and d21. Results and discussion During the suckling period, A-MS1 had lowest mortality (p < 0.05), while Ma-MS1 had lower mortality compared with CON and Ma-MS2 (p < 0.05). Negative social behavior at d4, was more frequent in MS groups (A-MS1, Ma-MS1, Ma-MS2) compared to CON group (p = 0.03). Growth performance and lesion prevalence were not affected by MS provision. During lactation, Ma-MS2 group had a higher percentage of piglets not eating during suckling at d18 compared with Ma-MS1 (p = 0.03). MS1 increased microbial diversity compared with CON at d14 (Chao1, p = 0.02; Shannon, p = 0.03) and compared with CON (Shannon, p < 0.05; InvSimpson, p = 0.01) and Ma-MS2 (Chao1, p < 0.05; Shannon, p = 0.05, InvSimpson p = 0.01) at d21. Groups that received MS1 were characterized by genera producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), i.e., Lachnospiraceae (A-MS1) and Oscillospiraceae (Ma-MS1). MS composition and availability can contribute to reduce piglet's mortality during the suckling phase and can also affect intestinal microbiota by favoring the presence of SCFAs producing bacteria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federico Correa
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences (DISTAL), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Diana Luise
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences (DISTAL), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Clara Negrini
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences (DISTAL), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Roberta Ruggeri
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences (DISTAL), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Agroscope, Pig Research Unit, Animal Production Systems and Animal Health, Posieux, Switzerland
| | - Paolo Bosi
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences (DISTAL), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Trevisi
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences (DISTAL), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Nielsen SS, Alvarez J, Bicout DJ, Calistri P, Canali E, Drewe JA, Garin‐Bastuji B, Gonzales Rojas JL, Schmidt G, Herskin M, Michel V, Miranda Chueca MÁ, Mosbach‐Schulz O, Padalino B, Roberts HC, Stahl K, Velarde A, Viltrop A, Winckler C, Edwards S, Ivanova S, Leeb C, Wechsler B, Fabris C, Lima E, Mosbach‐Schulz O, Van der Stede Y, Vitali M, Spoolder H. Welfare of pigs on farm. EFSA J 2022; 20:e07421. [PMID: 36034323 PMCID: PMC9405538 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2022.7421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
This scientific opinion focuses on the welfare of pigs on farm, and is based on literature and expert opinion. All pig categories were assessed: gilts and dry sows, farrowing and lactating sows, suckling piglets, weaners, rearing pigs and boars. The most relevant husbandry systems used in Europe are described. For each system, highly relevant welfare consequences were identified, as well as related animal-based measures (ABMs), and hazards leading to the welfare consequences. Moreover, measures to prevent or correct the hazards and/or mitigate the welfare consequences are recommended. Recommendations are also provided on quantitative or qualitative criteria to answer specific questions on the welfare of pigs related to tail biting and related to the European Citizen's Initiative 'End the Cage Age'. For example, the AHAW Panel recommends how to mitigate group stress when dry sows and gilts are grouped immediately after weaning or in early pregnancy. Results of a comparative qualitative assessment suggested that long-stemmed or long-cut straw, hay or haylage is the most suitable material for nest-building. A period of time will be needed for staff and animals to adapt to housing lactating sows and their piglets in farrowing pens (as opposed to crates) before achieving stable welfare outcomes. The panel recommends a minimum available space to the lactating sow to ensure piglet welfare (measured by live-born piglet mortality). Among the main risk factors for tail biting are space allowance, types of flooring, air quality, health status and diet composition, while weaning age was not associated directly with tail biting in later life. The relationship between the availability of space and growth rate, lying behaviour and tail biting in rearing pigs is quantified and presented. Finally, the panel suggests a set of ABMs to use at slaughter for monitoring on-farm welfare of cull sows and rearing pigs.
Collapse
|
6
|
Farmer C, Edwards SA. Review: Improving the performance of neonatal piglets. Animal 2022; 16 Suppl 2:100350. [PMID: 34801424 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2021.100350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Newborn piglets have a high incidence of preweaning mortality that is not only associated with low birth weights but also with the presence of intra-uterine growth-restricted (IUGR) piglets. Such IUGR piglets are commonly seen in litters from hyperprolific sows as a result of insufficient placental transfer of nutrients. Nutritional strategies can be used prior to and during gestation to enhance foetal development and can also be implemented in the transition period to reduce the duration of farrowing and increase colostrum yield. Recent findings showed that the energy status of sows at the onset of farrowing is crucial to diminish stillbirth rate. Newborn piglets often fail to consume enough colostrum to promote thermostability and subsequent growth, and this is particularly problematic in very large litters when there are fewer available teats than the number of suckling piglets. One injection of 75 IU of oxytocin approximately 14 h after farrowing can prolong the colostral phase, hence increasing the supply of immunoglobulins to piglets. Nevertheless, assistance must be provided to piglets after birth in order to increase their chance of survival. Various approaches can be used, such as: (1) optimising the farrowing environment, (2) supervising farrowing and assisting newborn piglets, (3) using cross-fostering techniques, (4) providing nurse sows, and 5) providing artificial milk. Although research advances have been made in developing feeding and management strategies for sows that increase performance of their newborn piglets, much work still remains to be done to ensure that maximal outcomes are achieved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Farmer
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Sherbrooke R & D Centre, 2000 College St., Sherbrooke, QC J1M 0C8, Canada.
| | - S A Edwards
- Newcastle University, School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Agriculture Building, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Johnson AK, Rault JL, Marchant JN, Baxter EM, O'Driscoll K. Improving young pig welfare on-farm: The Five Domains Model. J Anim Sci 2022; 100:6583200. [PMID: 35536191 PMCID: PMC9202571 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skac164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Considering welfare through the "neonatal and nursery pig perspective" is an exciting approach, and one that resonates with consumers. Overlaying this with the Five Domains Model, as we suggest in this review, points to practical on-farm improvements that provide each pig the opportunity to experience positive mental states. The Five Domains Model is broken into physical and functional states, that includes Domain 1 Nutrition, Domain 2 Physical Environment, Domain 3 Health and, Domain 4 Behavioral Interaction, and Domain 5 Mental State. The Five Domains Model can build on the breadth and depth of swine welfare science to highlight opportunities to improve welfare on-farm. In Domain 1 management of increasingly large litters is considered, with examples of sow vs. artificial rearing, colostrum quality and quantity, and creep feed management strategies. Efforts can result in positive mental states such as feeling full and content and the ability to experience pleasure of drinking and food tastes/smells. Domain 2 considers space complexity and access to key resources, along with thermal and physical amenities, to promote feelings of physical comfort. Domain 3 considers pig health in three broad, yet inter-linking categories, (a) congenital and hereditary health, (b) environmental pathogen load and, (c) colostrum quality and quantity, and its effect on the microbiome. Improvements can result in a pig that displays vitality and feels healthy. Domain 4 provides the pig opportunities to express its rich behavioral repertoire, specifically positive social interactions, play, and exploration. These efforts can result in pigs feeling calm, safe, comfortable, having companionship, engaged, interested and rewarded. In conclusion, using the Five Domains Model can highlight numerous opportunities to improve current and future housing and management through the "neonatal and nursery pig perspective" with a focus on inducing positive mental states that can result in improved quality of life and welfare state.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A K Johnson
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50001, USA.,Iowa Pork Industry Center, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50001, USA
| | - J-L Rault
- Institute of Animal Welfare Science, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, A-1210, Austria
| | - J N Marchant
- USDA-ARS Livestock Behavior Research Unit, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - E M Baxter
- Animal Behaviour and Welfare, Animal and Veterinary Sciences Research Group, SRUC, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, UK
| | - K O'Driscoll
- Pig Development Department, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Moorepark, Fermoy Co. Cork, P61 C997, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Fil JE, Joung S, Hayes CA, Dilger RN. Influence of Rearing Environment on Longitudinal Brain Development, Object Recognition Memory, and Exploratory Behaviors in the Domestic Pig ( Sus scrofa). Front Neurosci 2021; 15:649536. [PMID: 33841090 PMCID: PMC8024486 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.649536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Over the last 40 years, the domestic pig has emerged as a prominent preclinical model as this species shares similarities with humans with regard to immunity, gastrointestinal physiology, and neurodevelopment. Artificial rearing of pigs provides a number of advantages over conventional rearing (i.e., true maternal care), including careful control of nutrient intake and environment conditions. Yet there remains a gap in knowledge when comparing brain development between sow-reared and artificially reared domestic pigs. Thus, our research sought to model brain development and assess recognition memory in a longitudinal manner by directly comparing rearing environments. Methods Forty-four intact (i.e., not castrated) male pigs were artificially reared or sow-reared from postnatal day 2 until postnatal week 4. After postnatal week 4, all pigs were housed in a group setting within the same environment until postnatal week 24. Magnetic resonance imaging was conducted on pigs at 8 longitudinal time-points to model developmental trajectories of brain macrostructural and microstructural outcomes. Additionally, pigs behavior were tested using the novel object recognition task at postnatal weeks 4 and 8. Results Throughout the 24-week study, no differences between rearing groups were noted in weekly body weights, average growth and feed intake patterns, or feed efficiency. Whole brain, gray matter, white matter, and cerebrospinal fluid growth patterns also did not differ between pigs assigned to different early-life rearing environments. Moreover, minimal differences in regional absolute volumes and fractional anisotropy developmental trajectories were identified, though artificially reared pigs exhibited higher initial rates of myelination in multiple brain regions compared with sow-reared pigs. Furthermore, behavioral assessment at both PNW 4 and 8 suggested little influence of rearing environment on recognition memory, however, an age-dependent increase in object recognition memory was observed in the sow-reared group. Conclusion Our findings suggest that early-life rearing environment influences the rate of development in some brain regions but has little influence on overall brain growth and object recognition memory and exploratory behaviors in the domestic pig. Artificial rearing may promote maturation in certain brain areas but does not appear to elicit long-term effects in outcomes including brain structure or object recognition memory.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanne E Fil
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Sangyun Joung
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Courtney A Hayes
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Ryan N Dilger
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States.,Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States.,Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kobek-Kjeldager C, Moustsen VA, Theil PK, Pedersen LJ. Effect of large litter size and within-litter differences in piglet weight on the use of milk replacer in litters from hyper-prolific sows under two housing conditions. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2020.105046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
|
10
|
Kobek-Kjeldager C, Moustsen VA, Theil PK, Pedersen LJ. Effect of litter size, milk replacer and housing on behaviour and welfare related to sibling competition in litters from hyper-prolific sows. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2020.105032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
11
|
Prunier A, Averos X, Dimitrov I, Edwards SA, Hillmann E, Holinger M, Ilieski V, Leming R, Tallet C, Turner SP, Zupan M, Camerlink I. Review: Early life predisposing factors for biting in pigs. Animal 2020; 14:570-587. [PMID: 31436143 PMCID: PMC7026718 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731119001940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Revised: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The pig industry faces many animal welfare issues. Among these, biting behaviour has a high incidence. It is indicative of an existing problem in biters and is a source of physical damage and psychological stress for the victims. We categorize this behaviour into aggressive and non-aggressive biting, the latter often being directed towards the tail. This review focusses specifically on predisposing factors in early life, comprising the prenatal and postnatal periods up to weaning, for the expression of aggressive and non-aggressive biting later in life. The influence of personality and coping style has been examined in a few studies. It varies according to these studies and, thus, further evaluation is needed. Regarding the effect of environmental factors, the number of scientific papers is low (less than five papers for most factors). No clear influence of prenatal factors has been identified to date. Aggressive biting is reduced by undernutrition, cross-fostering and socialization before weaning. Non-aggressive biting is increased by undernutrition, social stress due to competition and cross-fostering. These latter three factors are highly dependent on litter size at birth. The use of familiar odours may contribute to reducing biting when pigs are moved from one environment to another by alleviating the level of stress associated with novelty. Even though the current environment in which pigs are expressing biting behaviours is of major importance, the pre-weaning environment should be optimized to reduce the likelihood of this problem.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A. Prunier
- INRA, PEGASE, Agrocampus-Ouest, Saint Gilles 35590, France
| | - X. Averos
- Department of Animal Production, Neiker-Tecnalia Basque Institute for Agricultural Research and Development, Vitoria-Gasteiz 01080, Spain
| | - I. Dimitrov
- Agricultural Institute, Stara Zagora 6000, Bulgaria
| | - S. A. Edwards
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK
| | - E. Hillmann
- Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Albrecht Daniel Thaer-Institute of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Berlin 10115, Germany
| | - M. Holinger
- ETH Zurich, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zürich 8092, Switzerland
| | - V. Ilieski
- University Ss. Cyril and Methodius in Skopje, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Skopje 1000, Republic of North Macedonia
| | - R. Leming
- Estonian University of Life Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Tartu 51014, Estonia
| | - C. Tallet
- INRA, PEGASE, Agrocampus-Ouest, Saint Gilles 35590, France
| | - S. P. Turner
- SRUC, Kings Buildings, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, UK
| | - M. Zupan
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Domžale 1230, Slovenia
| | - I. Camerlink
- University of Veterinary Medicine (Vetmeduni) Vienna, Institute of Animal Welfare Science, Veterinärplatz 1, Vienna 1210, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Effect of litter size, milk replacer and housing on production results of hyper-prolific sows. Animal 2019; 14:824-833. [PMID: 31650940 DOI: 10.1017/s175173111900260x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The modern hyper-prolific sow gives birth to more piglets than she has functional teats (in the following called supernumerary piglets). The aim of the present study was (1) to investigate the production consequences of hyper-prolific sows rearing supernumerary piglets equal to the mean live-born litter size, and (2) investigate whether potential negative effects on survival and growth could be alleviated by providing access to milk replacer and/or providing easier access to the udder (by loose housing). At day 1 (D1) postpartum (pp), 93 litters were standardised to 14 or 17 piglets (LS14/LS17) after which no piglets were moved between sows leading to decreased litter size if piglets died. Litters were provided with or without milk replacer in milk cups (+MILK/-MILK), and sows were either crated or loose housed (CRATE/LOOSE) in a 2 × 2 × 2 factorial design. Piglet mortality was higher in LS17 compared to LS14 (P < 0.01; OR = 2.0), higher in -MILK compared to +MILK (P = 0.01; OR = 1.2) and higher in LOOSE compared to CRATE (P = 0.02; OR = 1.8). This study showed that sow rearing of supernumerary piglets while supplying with milk replacer can increase piglet survival. It also showed that early mortality before piglets learned to drink milk replacer posed a challenge using this automatic milk replacer system. An interaction between access to milk replacer and the standardised litter size D1 affected litter weight (P < 0.01) and piglet weight day 28 (D28) (P = 0.03). The highest litter weight D28 was found in LS17 +MILK (P < 0.01) but with a lower individual piglet weight than in LS14 -MILK. Piglet weight D28 was higher in LS14 -MILK compared to LS17 regardless of access to milk replacer. Heterogeneity in piglet weight within litters D28 was larger in LS17 (P = 0.03) but could be reduced with +MILK in CRATE (P < 0.01). No effects were found on sow weight loss and feed intake (P > 0.05). In conclusion, the results showed that sows cannot rear the supernumerary piglets without further management interventions to reduce mortality. Supplying supernumerary piglets equal to the mean live-born litter size of hyper-prolific sows with milk replacer can from results of this study be an alternative strategy to the use of nurse sows.
Collapse
|
13
|
Artificial rearing affects piglets pre-weaning behaviour, welfare and growth performance. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2018.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
14
|
Holinger M, Früh B, Stoll P, Graage R, Wirth S, Bruckmaier R, Prunier A, Kreuzer M, Hillmann E. Chronic intermittent stress exposure and access to grass silage interact differently in their effect on behaviour, gastric health and stress physiology of entire or castrated male growing-finishing pigs. Physiol Behav 2018; 195:58-68. [DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2018.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Revised: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
15
|
Frei D, Würbel H, Wechsler B, Gygax L, Burla JB, Weber R. Can body nosing in artificially reared piglets be reduced by sucking and massaging dummies? Appl Anim Behav Sci 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2018.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
16
|
Alexopoulos JG, Lines DS, Hallett S, Plush KJ. A Review of Success Factors for Piglet Fostering in Lactation. Animals (Basel) 2018. [PMID: 29522470 PMCID: PMC5867526 DOI: 10.3390/ani8030038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary An understanding of behavioural and physiological mechanisms responsible for piglet survival and growth will assist in developing the best recommendations in which to manage piglet movements in the farrowing house. This review has identified six key principles that should underpin successful piglet fostering. These fostering principles will improve productivity and welfare of sows and piglets in commercial pig production. Abstract Piglet movement from one sow to another, or fostering, is required in modern pig farming but there is little available literature on the most effective strategy. In this review, we focus on the behavioural and physiological mechanisms responsible for piglet survival and growth, and have identified six key principles. (1) Colostrum provides piglets with warmth, energy and immunity. It is most accessible during the first 12 h from the birth sow, therefore no piglet should be moved before this; (2) To ensure even intake of birth sow colostrum, techniques such as split suckling prior to piglet movement should be implemented; (3) Udder assessment for functional teats should occur at farrowing, with number of fostered piglets not exceeding teat number; (4) Primiparous sows should receive as many piglets as the udder allows to maximise mammary stimulation, although older parities should be assessed for rearing ability; (5) Piglet fostering should occur between 12 and 24 h and movement kept to a minimum to prevent transfer of disease; Litter outliers should be moved and relocated to a litter of similar size; (6) Piglet movement after 24 h should be minimised. When required, strategies such as nurse usage should be employed. These principles will result in improved farrowing house performance by increasing the litter weight weaned per sow.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - David S Lines
- SunPork Farms, PO Box 92, Wasleys 5400, South Australia, Australia.
| | - Suzanne Hallett
- SunPork Farms, PO Box 92, Wasleys 5400, South Australia, Australia.
| | - Kate J Plush
- SunPork Farms, PO Box 92, Wasleys 5400, South Australia, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Madsen JG, Seoni E, Kreuzer M, Silacci P, Bee G. Influence of l-carnitine and l-arginine on protein synthesis and maturation of the semitendinosus muscle of lightweight piglets. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2017; 102:440-451. [PMID: 28771840 DOI: 10.1111/jpn.12765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2016] [Accepted: 05/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Lightweight (LW) piglets from large litters display impaired growth performance compared with heavier littermates. This study investigated the growth performance and muscle development of early-weaned LW piglets (birthweight <1.2 kg) from large litters (17.3 ± 3.0 total born per litter), fed ad libitum a milk replacer supplemented with either l-carnitine (CAR) or l-arginine (ARG) from day 7 to day 28 of age. In total, 36 female and entire male Swiss Large White piglets, weaned on day 7 of age, were artificially reared in pairs in rescue decks. They were allocated to one of three dietary treatments: unsupplemented control (CON), 0.48 g l-carnitine·piglet-1 ·day-1 (CAR) or 1.20 g l-arginine·kg body weight-1 ·day-1 (ARG). Milk replacer was prepared daily in a 1:4 powder-to-water ratio and fed ad libitum. Piglets were weighed at birth and on days 7, 14, 21 and 28. Feed intake was assessed daily. Piglets were euthanized on day 28. The entire semitendinosus muscle (STM) was collected, and organs were weighed. Subsequently, the STM was divided into the light (STMl ) and dark (STMd ) portion, and contractile and metabolic traits were analysed by ATP histochemistry, enzyme activities and gene expression. No differences in growth performance, organ and STM weight and on contractile traits were found between groups. A tendency (p < .10) for an elevated lipid oxidation enzyme activity in the STMl and STMd and greater (p < .05) phosphorylation of the mammalian target of rapamycin pathway in the STMl of CAR compared with CON piglets was found. Despite these metabolic responses, the lack of effect of CAR and ARG supplementation on growth performance suggests that providing the milk replacer ad libitum in combination with added CAR and ARG is insufficient for eliciting faster growth of LW piglets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J G Madsen
- Agroscope Posieux, Posieux, Switzerland.,ETH Zurich, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - E Seoni
- Agroscope Posieux, Posieux, Switzerland
| | - M Kreuzer
- ETH Zurich, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - P Silacci
- Agroscope Posieux, Posieux, Switzerland
| | - G Bee
- Agroscope Posieux, Posieux, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|