The farrowing process in swine is a critical component of pork production, directly influencing both sow welfare and piglet viability. Recent genetic advancements have led to hyperprolific sows, with litter sizes increasing from approximately 10 piglets in 1990 to nearly 20 in 2019. This increase in litter size has been accompanied by a significant extension in farrowing duration, from an average of 1.5–2 hours to 7–8 hours.
Prolonged farrowing durations are associated with several challenges. Extended parturition can lead to increased incidences of stillbirths, postpartum dysgalactia syndrome (PPDS), and compromised sow health. Studies have shown that farrowing durations exceeding 8 hours can result in a 24.6% increase in piglet mortality compared to sows that complete farrowing within 2 hours.
Several factors contribute to prolonged farrowing durations in hyperprolific sows. The sheer number of piglets increases the physical demands on the sow during parturition. Additionally, environmental factors such as high ambient temperatures can exacerbate the situation. Research indicates that in tropical environments, hyperprolific sows with an average of 17.5 total born piglets have an average farrowing duration of 330.6 minutes.
To mitigate these challenges, several management practices can be implemented:
- Environmental Control: Maintaining optimal farrowing house temperatures is crucial. High temperatures can prolong farrowing duration and increase piglet mortality. Implementing cooling systems, like IHT Cooling Pads, or scheduling farrowing during cooler periods can be beneficial.
- Nutritional Management: Proper feeding strategies during gestation can influence farrowing outcomes. Overfeeding in late gestation can lead to excessive fat deposition, increasing the risk of dystocia. Conversely, underfeeding can result in low energy reserves, leading to uterine inertia. A balanced diet tailored to the sow’s needs is essential.
- Monitoring and Assistance: Close monitoring during farrowing allows timely intervention if complications arise. Training staff to recognize signs of dystocia and providing assistance when necessary can reduce piglet mortality and improve sow recovery.
In conclusion, genetic selection for larger litters has enhanced productivity but has also introduced challenges in the farrowing process. Producers can improve both sow welfare and piglet survival by understanding the factors contributing to prolonged farrowing and implementing targeted management practices, ensuring a more sustainable and efficient pork production system.
