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Ways to increase the survival rate of piglets
Newborn piglets are highly vulnerable due to their underdeveloped systems, weak immune defenses, and limited ability to regulate body temperature. Neglect can lead to serious health issues or even death. Proper care is essential to ensure their survival and healthy growth.
First, focus on the immediate care of newborn piglets. After birth, clear the amniotic fluid from the piglet’s nose and mouth, then move them to a warm, dry area. The following steps are crucial:
1. **Colostrum intake** is vital. Colostrum is rich in proteins, vitamins, minerals, and antibodies that help build the piglet’s immunity. It also has a mild laxative effect, aiding in the passage of meconium. Ensure piglets consume colostrum within the first 1-2 days after birth for optimal protection against diseases.
2. **Nipple training** helps all piglets get equal access to milk. Place weaker piglets near the front teats where milk flow is stronger, while more developed ones can be assigned to the back teats. This process usually takes 2-3 days with consistent attention and handling.
3. **Maintain proper environmental temperature**. Newborns have thin fat layers and poor thermoregulation. Ideal temperatures vary: 35°C within the first 6 hours, 30–34°C for days 1–3, 28–30°C for days 4–7, and 25–28°C for days 8–15. In cold weather, use insulation materials, straw, and infrared lamps (placed 40–50 cm above the floor) to keep the area warm.
4. **Use elevated pens** to reduce disease risk. Ground-level housing increases exposure to bacteria and dampness, leading to diarrhea. High beds improve hygiene and support better growth and development.
Second, **prevent cold stress**. Piglets are especially sensitive to low temperatures, which can cause hypothermia, pneumonia, and even death. A key preventive measure is to give piglets 2–3 ml of 0.1% potassium permanganate before they nurse, followed by oxytetracycline if needed. Maintaining clean feeding areas and ensuring proper hygiene is critical.
Third, **wean piglets gradually**. Their passive immunity from mother’s milk lasts only 2–3 weeks, so weaning should occur at 4–6 weeks when their immune system is more mature. Avoid sudden changes in feed or environment. Keep piglets in the same pen for a few days post-weaning, group them by size, and slowly transition to solid food.
Fourth, **introduce early feeding**. Start offering small amounts of grain or soaked feed at 5–7 days old to encourage eating. Use sugar water to attract piglets and provide clean drinking water, especially in colder weather.
Fifth, **increase energy levels in the sow’s diet** during late pregnancy. Adding fat or energy-rich feeds improves milk quality and fetal development, increasing piglet survival rates. Feed 200–250 grams of animal fat daily one month before farrowing.
Sixth, **supplement trace elements**. Vitamin C injections or oral supplements (1 g/day) before and after birth boost immunity and growth. Iron deficiency is common in newborns, so administer iron injections or a ferrous sulfate solution to prevent anemia and related complications.
Finally, **focus on disease prevention**. Maintain clean feed and water, encourage outdoor activity, and ensure proper warmth. If signs of illness like jaundice appear, treat with probiotics or antibiotics as needed.
Proper care from the very beginning sets the foundation for healthy, strong piglets. With attention to nutrition, environment, and hygiene, survival rates and growth performance can be significantly improved.