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Published on: November 4, 2015
[A pig farm with chronic fertility problems]
1Kliniek Voortplanting, Verloskunde en Bedrijfsdiergeneeskunde, Faculteit Diergeneeskunde, Gent, België.
Tijdschrift Voor Diergeneeskunde
|June 1, 1995
Summary
Sows experiencing fertility issues were inseminated too early, leading to irregular returns to oestrus. Adjusting insemination timing based on precise oestrus detection in sows can improve reproductive efficiency.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Reproduction
- Swine Husbandry
Context:
- A commercial swine herd of 320 sows exhibited chronic fertility problems.
- Approximately 20-30% of inseminated sows returned to oestrus without a clear cause.
Purpose:
- To investigate the reasons behind high rates of sows returning to oestrus in a commercial herd.
- To identify potential issues with oestrus detection and insemination timing.
Summary:
- Analysis of insemination-to-return intervals revealed that 20% of sows returned between 24 and 28 days post-insemination.
- Detailed examination of the farmer's technique indicated most sows were inseminated 4-6 days post-weaning, which was premature for some.
- Sows showing optimal oestrus symptoms 6-8 days post-weaning explained the irregular returns between 24-28 days.
Impact:
- Recommends dividing the 24-35 day return-to-oestrus interval into 24-28 days and 29-35 days for accurate diagnosis.
- Enables differentiation between sows inseminated too early and those with irregular oestrus cycles.
- Improved oestrus detection and insemination timing can enhance reproductive performance in swine herds.
