Piglet Mortality and its Management

Pigs produce more offspring in each litter but the higher mortality rate among piglets is an issue of concern. Piglets death during the perinatal and lactation period is responsible for reduced production efficiency in swine herds. It has been revealed that majority of the preweaning deaths are due to crushing by the sow. Other causes of death include respiratory problems, Scours, chilling, piglet anaemia and various fatal diseases. Preweaning mortality varies among herds between 12–25% depending on housing system. High mortality rates before weaning not only affect the economy but must also be looked at as both an animal welfare problem and an ethical issue. Understanding the various causes of piglet mortality and timely implementation of suitable operations and strategies helps to reduce piglet mortality.