How to optimize the weaning proces

7 important questions on How to optimize the weaning proces

Weaning in piglets is associated with...

  • signs of distress
  • manipulative behavior
  • low nutrient intake
  • decreased growth
  • decrease in intestinal dysfunction --> diarrhoea

Why does belly nosing/suckling develop?

When a piglet is not adapted to solid food after weaning he/she has a big suckling motivation and therefore develops belly nosing

Facts about belly nosing/ suckling

  1. Commences 3-5 days after weaning (peaks 3 weeks later)
  2. No obvious function
  3. Redirected suckling
  4. Related with tail biting during grow-finish period
  5. post-wean hunger
  6. variation in frequency
  7. Not related with weaning weight
  8. Belly nosers grow more slowly after weaning
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Variation of belly nosing/ sucking depends on:

  • Later weaning
  • Enrichment
  • Liquid diets
  • Drinking nipples anchored in feeding trough
  • drinking bowls

Risk factors for post weaning disorders:

  • Pre: feed intake, age and weight at weaning
  • Post: pigs should rapidly develop an appropriate feeding behavior

How to stimulate feed intake during lactation?

  1. Feeding trough design (stimulate exploration behavior)
  2. Feed characteristics; smell, taste, size
  3. Sow + environment

Conclusions about socializing piglets before weaning:

  1. Increases pre-wean fighting
  2. Reduces post wean fighting
  3. Long time consequences unclear

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