ARS | Publication request: PREWEANING SURVIVAL IN SWINE

Submitted to: Journal of Animal Science Supplement
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: March 19, 2001
Publication Date: N/A

Technical Abstract: A limited ability to cope with environmental stressors (cold, disease, limited nutrition), particularly over the first 2 to 3 d of life, predisposes the piglet to relatively high rates of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Due to the serious economic impact, numerous surveys of preweaning losses have been conducted over the last century. While losses are still significant, the existing literature indicates a significant improvement in piglet survival over time, as determined by reports of 35% preweaning mortality in 1924 and 13-15% in 2000. Major sources of mortality have been categorized as overlaying by the sow, insufficient energy intake, and disease. Causes of mortality may be more closely linked than previously believed. Interactions exist between disease, thermoregulation, and nutrition. Piglets with disease and nutritional problems experience hypothermia and express altered behaviors that increase the likelihood of being laid on by the sow. High probabilities of neonatal losses are associated with low birthweight piglets, cold ambient temperatures, and scouring. An understanding of the interactions between environmental stressors and the piglet's biology forms the basis of strategies and recommendations for improving preweaning survival.