Early socialisation in group lactation system reduces post-weaning aggression in piglets

Area of Science:

• Animal behavior
• Animal welfare
• Swine production

Background:

• Group housing for sows and litters may improve piglet welfare.
• Limited data exists on the post-weaning social benefits of early piglet socialization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of pre-weaning housing on piglet social behavior after weaning.
• To assess the effects of early socialization on aggression and injuries in weaner pigs.

Main Methods:

• Weaner pigs were grouped into 10, comprising littermates from pre-weaning group housing (Gr) or crate housing (Co).
• Experimental groups included Gr/Gr, Gr/Co, and Co/Co, with varying combinations of littermates from different housing systems.

Main Results:

• Piglets from crate housing (Co/Co) exhibited more fighting and injuries compared to those from group housing (Gr/Gr) within four days of mixing.
• Unclear fighting outcomes were also more prevalent in the Co/Co group.

Conclusions:

• Piglets with early socialization through group housing demonstrate enhanced social skills.
• Familiar and unfamiliar conspecific interactions post-weaning are positively influenced by pre-weaning group housing.