56
Management of the hyperprolific sow
in injuries to piglets caused by crushing and by cold. One system used to prevent cold exposure of piglets through contact with the floor is the spreading of shredded paper. This also helps limit drafts that pass though grates. It is a cost-effective solution that should be used in appropriate areas, such as the farrowing pen and the piglets’ rest area (heated area). However, it is essential that this shredded paper is removed once the objective has been achieved, as it can have negative sanitary effects and can increase moisture levels. The apparent temperature perceived by piglets varies depending on the type of flooring used (Table 1). Sows should be moved gently in the early morning or during the cooler hours of the day. Care should be taken if moving sows in the middle of the day, especially in hot weather. Before entering the farrowing room sows should be showered, as it makes no sense to
bring a dirty sow into a recently cleaned and disinfected area. The record sheet corresponding to each sow in the farrowing unit should always be available. Extra attention should be paid to sows with a history of stillbirths and nonviable piglets in order to minimise the number of stillborn piglets. Monitoring of problematic sows is of utmost importance. The farrowing unit should fulfil the following requirements: • A pen that allows the sow to stretch, rest, and stand up without difficulty. Pen dimensions of 270 cm long x 180 cm wide. Crate dimensions of 65 cm in width, with room for adjustment to 90 cm (Fig. 4). • Adequate supply of water and food (insufficient water supply reduces feed intake). In the farrowing unit the water consumption of hyperprolific lines ranges from 35 to 50 litres per day. However, it
Table 1. Apparent temperature perceived by piglets depending on floor type and air velocity (Faccenda, 2006).
Floor type Wet concrete slats
Temperature (°C) -10
Iron slats
-3
Concrete slats
-2
Solid concrete
-1
Plastic slats
0
Sawdust
1
Straw
4
Wood shavings
5
Paper bedding
5
Air velocity (m/s) 0.2
Temperature (°C) -4
0.5
-7
1.5
-10
Figure 4. Adjustment of farrowing pen upon entry of the sow to the farrowing unit.