Reproductive failure in the pig: diagnosis and control

An approach to reproductive failure in pigs, based on the regular collection and analysis of performance records is proposed. Inovlvement at this level gives veterinary surgeons familiarity with herd mangement and economics. The use of control charts to monitor performance is also advocated for detecting problems as they arise. When failure occurs, a stage-by-stage clinical investigation of the whole breeding programme is advisable. Post mortem studies may also be useful in detecting specific pathological changes. Diagnostic tests should only be used to confirm diagnoses. Having established the source and extent of the failure, and its likely cost, if uncorrected, appropriate measures can be considered. Three principal methods of control are discussed.