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Mortality in mink kits from birth to weaning
Summary
High preweaning mortality in mink kits is linked to low birth weight and early-onset issues. Systemic infections and dystocia are key causes in neonatal and older kits, impacting mink farming success.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Animal Science
- Mink Farming
Background:
- Neonatal mortality presents a significant challenge in mink farming.
- Understanding mortality patterns is crucial for improving kit survival rates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the causes and patterns of mortality in mink kits from birth to weaning.
- To identify critical factors contributing to preweaning kit loss.
Main Methods:
- A necropsy survey was conducted on mink kits.
- Mortality data and diagnostic findings were collected and analyzed.
Main Results:
- Overall preweaning mortality was 20%.
- 91% of mortalities occurred within the first three days post-birth, often without clear lesions or bacterial isolates.
- Low birth weight (7.9g vs 10.7g) was associated with early death.
- Common diagnoses in younger kits (<4 days) included dystocia (12%) and systemic infection (4%).
- In older kits (≥4 days), systemic infection (19%), external trauma (6%), and dystocia (5%) were prevalent.
Conclusions:
- Early mortality in mink kits is strongly associated with low birth weight and potentially non-specific factors.
- Systemic infections and dystocia are significant contributors to mortality across different preweaning age groups.
- Targeted interventions addressing birth weight and early-life care are essential for reducing mink kit losses.
