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Importance of Weaning in Pigs
Weaning in pigs is the process of gradually transitioning piglets from a milk-based diet to a solid food diet. It is a very important stage in a piglet’s life.
In the early hours after a piglet’s birth, the sow produces colostrum, which is later converted into mother’s milk that offers vital antibodies to protect the newborn against infections. While piglets grow, they continue to nurse from the sow. The sow delivers proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals needed for the piglets’ healthy growth.
In this stage of lactation, it is also necessary to cut the umbilical cord, trim the fangs, record the body weight, and administer essential minerals. Such practices reduce health risks and enhance proper growth.
The Meaning and Importance of Weaning in Pigs
Weaning in pigs is always a stressful time in pig production and it affects both sow and piglet. For piglets, it is perhaps a tough time being weaned away from sow (mother) and being introduced to a substitute from a milk-based diet to a solid feed. And for sows, it initiates a series of hormonal shifts that indicates the beginning of a fresh reproductive cycle. This blog is going to elaborate on basically everything to do with the process of weaning. But firstly, let’s address one of the major question:
“What is the weaning age for piglets?”
Period of weaning in pigs depends on many factors, the breed, climate and especially the production system that is being practiced. Apparently, in their natural habitat, they wean from their mother between 13-17 weeks. In modern intensive farming systems, early weaning techniques are often used to improve the production of sows and also to cut the risk of mortality of piglets.
In efficient production, what is widely referred to as early weaning, the average weight of piglets is approximately 6-8 kilograms. In such conditions, the majority of piglets are often expected to be ready for weaning in approximately 17-21 days. However, in productions with heavier challenges in achieving an ideal weight and physiology, piglet weaning is likely to be earlier than expected, thus extending the weaning age for piglets.
In small-scale farms, it has been advised that the piglets be weaned at 28 days of age so as to allow them to attain the desired weight and the ability to be weaned.
Let’s Dive into ‘Piglet Weaning Management’
Feeding piglets requires careful attention. As they mature, it is important to maintain their constant feed supply. Do not make sudden dietary changes as it will disturb their digestive system. An ideal piglet weaning management says, from about 7 to 10 days, start a special pre-initiation feed to help them prepare for weaning. After achieving a weight of 12 to 15 kilograms, begin feeding a ‘starter’ diet to effect the transition. It will help their growth and overall productivity.
Symptoms of Weaning in Pigs
Indeed, weaning is a challenging time for piglets, often leading to a range of physical and behavioral changes. By understanding these weaning in pigs symptoms and taking proactive measures, you can help your piglets transition smoothly and maintain their health.
Physical & Behavioural Symptoms of Weaning in Pigs
- Reduced Appetite and Weight Loss:
During the process of Weaning in Pigs, piglets may experience a decreased interest in eating, which leads to weight loss. It is all because of stress, discomfort, or digestive problems, such as diarrhea or constipation, which are often caused by the changes in diet and separation from the sow
- Increased Susceptibility to Disease:
Weaning can weaken a piglet’s immune system, making them more susceptible to infections. However, at that time, risk of infections can be prevented by feeding them on good diets, keeping their environment clean, and administering them on requisite immunizations
- Increased Aggression & Vocalization:
One of the major consequences of weaning is that pigs appear to be more aggressive or display more fighting on the part of piglets because of stress or competition. Not just that, weaning can lead to increased squealing or other vocalizations as piglets express discomfort or distress. This can be a sign of pain, fear, or separation anxiety
- Reduced Activity Level:
Lastly, give attention to such signs—-reduced activity, or even limp, is necessary. It further may cause stress, illness, or even pain, among the piglets. Decreased activity also has an effect on the feed intake and weight loss because the animal has to expend less energy for activity thus needing less food
These are signs that should be looked at in piglets and if observed it is advisable to consult with the vet.
Problems Associated with Weaning in Pigs
Cannibalism
When piglets get stressed, bored, or frustrated or when there are too many piglets in the room with the least space for movement, they start biting each other. This is called cannibalism. It can result in injuries and even death. To prevent piglet crushing, farmers must ensure that the piglets have enough space to move, are well-fed, and stay in a comfortable environment
Growth Issues:
- Poor toilet habits:
Piglets can sometimes develop bad habits, like soiling their bedding or eating their own feces. This is a matter of concern as it can lead to health problems and a messy environment. These bad habits can be caused by stress, discomfort, and inadequate sanitation. So to address those problems, producers should focus on key areas like clean bedding, proper sanitation, managing sick pigs, etc.
- Reduced Growth Rates:
Piglets are usually very stressed at weaning and this can depress weaning pigs’ feed intake and hence growth during the first few weeks post-weaning
- Feeding Frequency and Stomach pH
The feeding frequency greatly affects a piglet’s gastrointestinal tract. If being fed twice daily, the piglets eat huge amounts of feed within a short time, which overstresses their digestive systems. This can lead to rapid stomach emptying and also poor nutrient absorption which further promotes the breeding of bacteria in the stomach.
On the other hand, giving piglets small portions at a time is more dignifying and helps them to easily assimilate the nutrients as they are fed in small portions but frequently. The pH in the stomach stays relatively constant and does not allow the overgrowth of bacteria and thus doesn’t cause scouring in this ration
- Scouring:
This is a condition where piglets experience diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration and malnutrition. Scouring can be caused by a variety of factors, including bacterial infections, viral infections, and dietary imbalances. Producers can help to prevent scouring by providing clean water, ensuring proper nutrition, and vaccinating piglets against common diseases
The Role of Creep Feed
Weaning pigs’ feed plays a crucial role in their health and development. Creep feed, a scientifically formulated diet that is fed to piglets before they naturally wean off of their mother’s milk. It is rich in nutrients, and energy, and often contains digestive enzymes and antibiotics. Flavourings make it more appealing. This gets their digestive systems ready for a gradual switch to solid food and helps calm them down.
Moreover, in order to overcome all the post-weaning challenges, some management practices should be followed by the farmers. Here they are in detail…
Management Practices to Mitigate Post-Weaning Challenges
- Leveraging Intermittent Suckling:
Even though the long-term benefits might be limited, allowing piglets to nurse occasionally after weaning can give them a short-term boost to their eating and growth. This is particularly helpful for piglets that had trouble feeding well during lactation
- Preventing Pathogen Spread:
Mixing piglets from different litters can be risky from the point of view of diseases. So to avoid that, keep the same group together and help them to stay safe
- Harnessing the Power of Light:
Increasing light exposure can encourage piglets to consume more and be more active. However, it’s important to keep an eye out for potential aggression issues that might arise with higher light levels
- Staggering Stressors:
Graduating multiple stressors at once can be very challenging for piglets. If the changes are made gradually, such as moving to a new environment or changing their diet, then it would be less stressful for piglets.
Weaning in pigs is a critical stage in piglet development. By understanding the importance of weaning, the ideal weaning age, and effective management practices, producers can ensure a smooth transition for their piglets, leading to improved health, growth, and overall productivity.
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