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Autumn abortions in sows.

G W Almond, R M Friendship, W T Bosu

The Canadian Veterinary Journal = La Revue Veterinaire Canadienne

|May 1, 1985

Summary

Swine abortions in the fall were investigated in a commercial herd. Providing supplemental heat in the gestation barn significantly reduced abortion rates, suggesting environmental factors impact reproductive health.

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Area of Science:

Veterinary Medicine
Animal Reproduction
Swine Production

Background:

A commercial swine herd exhibited a seasonal pattern of abortions, primarily in autumn.
Abortion rates increased from 2.2% in 1980 to 4.3% in 1982.
Previous laboratory investigations failed to identify specific pathogens.

Purpose of the Study:

To diagnose the cause of increased autumn abortions in a commercial swine herd.
To investigate management and environmental factors contributing to reproductive losses.
To implement and evaluate interventions to reduce abortion rates.

Main Methods:

Retrospective analysis of herd records from 1980 to 1982.
Investigation into herd management practices and environmental conditions.
Implementation of supplemental heating in the gestation barn in December 1982.

Main Results:

No specific pathogen was identified through laboratory examinations.
Supplemental heat was introduced to the gestation barn to mitigate heat loss for pregnant sows.
Following the introduction of supplemental heat, the abortion rate decreased to 0.4% within 12 months.

Conclusions:

Environmental factors, specifically heat loss in the gestation barn, likely contributed to the seasonal abortion pattern.
Supplemental heating is an effective management strategy to reduce swine abortions linked to cold stress.
Environmental management is crucial for maintaining reproductive efficiency in commercial swine herds.

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