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Ambient temperature below which pigs should not be continuously showered in lairage
T G Knowles1, S N Brown, J E Edwards
1School of Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, Langford.
The Veterinary Record
|December 17, 1998
Summary
Showering pigs in lairage can help manage body temperature, but avoid it below 5°C. Continuous showering may cause excessive chilling, so monitor pigs for shivering.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Livestock Welfare
- Pre-slaughter Handling
Background:
- Showering pigs preslaughter can reduce body temperature in hot, stressed animals.
- However, low ambient temperatures pose a risk of excessive chilling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effects of showering on pig behavior and physiology.
- To determine a safe minimum ambient temperature for showering pigs.
Main Methods:
- Pigs were divided into showered and unshowered groups over 10 days with varying ambient temperatures.
- Behavior, skin integrity, body temperature, and blood markers (creatine kinase, cortisol, lactate) were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Showering prevented activity reduction in pigs at high ambient temperatures.
- A minimum temperature of 5°C is recommended for showering to prevent severe chilling.
Conclusions:
- Showering is beneficial for thermoregulation in lairage but requires careful temperature management.
- Continuous showering should be avoided below 5°C, and shivering is a key indicator to stop showering.
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