Factors associated with farrowing assistance in hyperprolific sows

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Reproductive Biology
• Swine Production

Background:

• Hyperprolific sows often require farrowing assistance due to large litter sizes.
• Environmental factors in tropical regions can influence farrowing dynamics.
• Understanding farrowing assistance is crucial for optimizing piglet survival and sow welfare.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify risk factors for farrowing assistance in hyperprolific sows in a tropical setting.
• To evaluate the impact of farrowing assistance on piglet colostrum intake.
• To assess the effect of farrowing assistance on sow colostrum yield.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of farrowing data from 352 Landrace×Yorkshire crossbred sows across five commercial herds in Thailand.
• Classification of sows by parity number (1, 2-4, 5-6, ≥7) and litter size (TB: 10-13, 14-16, ≥17).
• Investigation of farrowing assistance incidence and related parameters, including piglet colostrum consumption and sow colostrum yield.

Main Results:

• Farrowing assistance was required by 29.8% of sows, with significant herd variation (5.7%–53.3%).
• Sows with higher parity numbers (≥7) had a greater frequency of farrowing assistance compared to younger sows.
• Piglets born to sows requiring assistance showed lower colostrum consumption (302.2g vs 354.2g) and tended to have lower blood oxygen saturation (87.8% vs 90.4%).

Conclusions:

• Sow parity number is a significant factor influencing the need for farrowing assistance.
• Farrowing assistance did not affect sow colostrum yield but negatively impacted piglet colostrum intake.
• Piglets born with assistance require targeted care to improve oxygenation and ensure adequate colostrum absorption.