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Re-modelling the piggery breeding unit may affect the farrowing rate
O Hälli1, M Heinonen, C Munsterhjelm
1Department of Production Animal Medicine, University of Helsinki, Mäntsälä, Finland. outi.halli@helsinki.fi
Reproduction in Domestic Animals = Zuchthygiene
|July 31, 2009
Summary
Remodeling sow breeding units significantly impacts farrowing rates, but the effect depends on the herd's initial reproductive performance. High-performing herds saw a decrease, while low-performing herds experienced an increase in farrowing rates after remodeling.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Reproductive Biology
- Swine Production Systems
Background:
- Sow housing systems have evolved, with changes in breeding unit design potentially affecting reproductive efficiency.
- Understanding the impact of these modifications on farrowing rates is crucial for optimizing swine production.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of remodeling sow breeding units on farrowing rates in commercial swine herds.
- To determine if the impact of remodeling varies based on the herd's initial reproductive performance.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study of 47 Finnish sow herds that remodeled breeding units between 1995 and 2002.
- Data collected on production systems and herd performance before and after remodeling.
- Farrowing rates analyzed using linear regression, stratified by initial herd performance (high vs. low farrowing rate).
Main Results:
- Remodeling had no significant effect on farrowing rates when initial herd performance was not considered.
- In herds with initially high farrowing rates, remodeling led to a decrease.
- In herds with initially low farrowing rates, remodeling resulted in an increase in farrowing rates.
Conclusions:
- The design of sow breeding units can significantly impact farrowing rates, but the effect is contingent on the herd's pre-remodeling reproductive status.
- Management strategies should consider initial herd performance when evaluating the outcomes of breeding unit modifications.
