Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Numerous studies have reported that sow mortality is significantly associated with average
female inventory (Abiven
et al.
, 1998; Anil
et al.
, 2003; Christensen
et al.
, 1995; Koketsu,
2000). Less time is spent on one-to-one observation and, therefore, an animal that is
getting sick or is injured or losing weight may not be recognized early. Another concern
on large farms is that it is more likely to have difficulty in eliminating or controlling a
disease because gilts are purchased more frequently than on small farms (Koketsu, 2000).
In addition, emphasis on output may lead to excessive inventories and efforts to maximize
output (Loula, 2000). These conditions can lead to animal overcrowding and insufficient
quality space for injured or sick animals (Young and Aherne, 2005).
19.10 Conclusions
Poor sow longevity can have a detrimental effect on economic efficiency and animal
welfare. Sow longevity is a complex trait in which many factors contribute to a sow
having a long and productive life in a commercial breeding herd. The challenge to
improve sow longevity and, thus, reduce the number of sows removed annually from
breeding herds is enormous. There is extensive information in the scientific literature
regarding economics of sow longevity and reasons of removal, as well as nutritional and
management practices that affect sow longevity. It seems that special emphasis should be
given to gilt development and selection of replacement gilts with optimum feet and leg
conformation when managing replacement gilts to increase the probabilities that they
stay in the breeding herd at least until their production cost are covered. Furthermore,
pig producers should pay attention to develop and/or improve good stockmanship skills
among those people working with pigs on a daily basis. Inadequate animal care and
management could result in an increase in sow mortality and culling rates.
References
Abell, C.E., Jones, G.F., Stalder, K.J. and Johnson. A.K., 2010. Using the genetic lag value to
determine the optimal maximum parity for culling in commercial swine breeding herds. The
Professional Animal Scientist 26: 404-411.
Abiven, N., Seegers, H., Beaudeau, F., Laval, A. and Fourichon, C., 1998. Risk factors for high sow
mortality in French swine herds. Preventative Veterinary Medicine 33: 109-119.
Alsop, J.E., 2005. An outbreak of salmonellosis in a swine finishing barn. Journal of Swine Health
and Production 3(5): 265-268.
Andersen, I.L. and Bøe, K.E., 1999. Straw bedding or concrete floor for loose-housed pregnant
sows: consequences for aggression, production and physical health. Acta Agriculturae
Scandinavica, Section A - Animal Science 49: 190-195.
Anil, L., Anil, S.S., Deen, J., Baidoo, S.K. and Wheaton, J.E., 2005. Evaluation of well-being,
productivity, and longevity of pregnant sows housed in groups in pens with and electronic
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1630-1638.
Anil, S.S., Anil, L. and Deen, J., 2008. Analysis of periparturient risk factors affecting sow longevity
in breeding herds. Canadian Journal of Animal Science. 88: 381-389.
