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Colostrum yield and litter performance in multiparous sows subjected to farrowing induction
M A Otto1, A P Machado1, L P Moreira1
1Setor de Suínos, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.
Reproduction in Domestic Animals = Zuchthygiene
|April 12, 2017
Summary
Farrowing induction in sows on day 114 of gestation did not impact colostrum quality, IgG levels, or piglet survival and growth. This study found no significant differences in key performance indicators for piglets from induced versus naturally farrowing sows.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Reproductive Biology
- Swine Production
Background:
- Low colostrum intake in piglets compromises survival and growth.
- Farrowing induction is a common practice in swine production.
- Understanding the impact of induction on colostrum and piglet performance is crucial for optimizing herd management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of farrowing induction on colostrum yield and immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentration.
- To assess the impact of farrowing induction on piglet survival and performance until weaning.
- To determine if induced farrowing on day 114 of gestation affects sow and piglet parameters.
Main Methods:
- Sows (parity 3-7) were divided into control (spontaneous farrowing) and induction (PGF2α analogue on day 114) groups (n=48 each).
- Colostrum and serum samples (sows and piglets) were analyzed for IgG concentration.
- Piglet performance (weight, survival) was monitored until weaning in a subsample of litters.
Main Results:
- Farrowing induction did not significantly affect farrowing duration, litter size, birth weight, or colostrum yield (p > .05).
- No differences were observed in sow or piglet serum IgG, colostrum IgG concentration, or the need for obstetric interventions between groups (p > .05).
- Piglet survival rates and litter weights at 7, 14, and 20 days of age were similar between the control and induction groups (p > .05).
Conclusions:
- Farrowing induction on day 114 of gestation does not negatively impact colostrum yield or IgG concentration.
- Induced farrowing does not compromise piglet serum IgG levels or overall litter performance until weaning.
- Farrowing induction can be safely employed without adverse effects on colostrum quality or piglet development.