Basic management activities in a pig farm

Proper care during the farrowing stage sets the foundation for piglet growth and sow recovery:

• Ensure fresh air circulation: Maintain proper ventilation in the farrowing pen to allow fresh air in without creating a wind.
• Provide fresh water: Both the sow and piglets should always have access to clean, fresh water to support hydration and milk production.
• Clean and disinfect the pen: Fully clean and disinfect the farrowing area to minimize the risk of infection and disease.
• Monitor piglet growth rates: Weigh piglets weekly to track growth and detect any health or nutritional issues early.
• Check sow’s udder health: Feel the udder to ensure it’s neither too hard (indicating mastitis), and is producing milk for the piglets.
• Assess manure quality: Regularly check manure—it should be well-formed, not too hard or too soft, indicating good nutrition and health.

Weaning is an important transition that impacts the sow's reproductive cycle and piglet development:

• Wean piglets at the right time: Piglets should be weaned at 28 days to help the sow’s reproduction and allow for more cycles each year.
• Wean piglets simultaneously: Wean all piglets on the same day to reduce stress and make management easier.
• Wean early in the morning: Early weaning helps piglets adjust during the day, reducing stress.
• Avoid feeding sows in farrowing pens: Avoid feeding sows in the farrowing pen on weaning day to help them move and adjust to a new space.

Flushing enhances the reproductive performance of sows:

• Timing: Start flushing five days after weaning to prepare the sow for the next cycle.
• Diet composition: Focus on a diet rich in starch, sugars, and vitamins while limiting protein intake to support energy requirements and fertility.

Proper timing and preparation are key to successful breeding:

• Monitor the sow’s vulva: Check the sow’s vulva for signs of readiness, including a pink color and the presence of slimy secretions.
• Timing of service: Ensure insemination occurs at the optimal time to maximize the chances of conception.