[Causes of pre- and perinatal piglet loss]

The main part of the extensive embryonic losses in swine is usually attributed to endogenous regulatory processes. Beyond that a lot of endogenous and exogenous noxae can induce embryonic and fetal death. 60-80% of the preweaning mortality occur during the perinatal period, i.e. the time direct before farrowing until the third day of life. Aetiology, which generally is due to noninfectious causes, and clinical symptoms of perinatal mortality are described.