Herd-related risk factors for decubital ulcers present at post-mortem meat-inspection of Danish sows

We quantified risk factors for the prevalence of decubital ulcers (noted in meat-inspection records) in the shoulder region of Danish cull sows. The potential risk factors (herd-owner characteristics, production facilities and management) were obtained through telephone interviews based on a questionnaire. Meat-inspection records were obtained from the Danish Bacon and Meat Council (DBMC). The prevalence of decubital ulcers was investigated in 23,794 sows from 207 sow herds undergoing mandatory post-mortem meat-inspection at the four Danish abattoirs under the DBMC slaughtering sows in the year 2000. Three factors were associated with decreased herd prevalence of decubital ulcers in the mixed model: using one's own gilts for replacement, routinely using a hospital pen and production of pigs under certain welfare requirements. Two factors increased the prevalence: confined sows (stalled and tethered or tethered) and two persons working in the farrowing units instead of one.