Pig Husbandry Flashcards
(22 cards)
What is the average number of piglets per litter?
11 piglets per litter
What is the average number of farrows per year?
2.4 farrows a year
How many mammary glands do sows typically have?
12-16 mammary glands
What is the ideal number of functional teats to select in gilts?
14-16 functional teats
What is the target mortality rate for piglets?
<8% mortality
List the routine tasks performed in pig management.
- Tooth clipping/grinding
- Tail docking
- Tattooing/ear notching
- Castration
- Iron injections
What factors influence the decision of when to wean piglets?
- Space availability for sows and weaners
- Milking capabilities of the sow
- Breed and reproductive efficiency
- Litter size
- Weight approximately 7kg (21-40 days)
- Health of piglets at weaning
- Quality and digestibility of creep feed
- Weaning age that results in healthy weaners
What is a recommended pre-weaning practice to minimize stress?
Approx 24 equally spaced meals per day
What is a common post-weaning issue related to diet?
Change of diet leading to digestive and immunological immaturity
What is the best performance environment for pigs?
Thermoneutral zone
What is the purpose of creep feeding?
- Supplement declining milk yield
- Stimulate digestive maturity
- Minimize post-weaning growth check
What is Post-weaning Multisystemic Wasting Syndrome (PMWS)?
Condition in pigs aged 15-16 weeks, characterized by weight loss and respiratory disease
What is the mortality rate associated with PMWS?
15-20% plus
What vaccination is available for PMWS?
PCV2 vaccination
What are the components of post-weaning nutrition?
- Water
- Protein
- Carbohydrate
- Fat
What is the ad-lib feeding system?
Feeding system that minimizes labor and provides feed at all times
What is the key principle of phase feeding?
Supports lean growth potential at least cost
What are signs of oestrus in sows?
- Reddening and swelling of vulva
- Mounting and restlessness
- Standing reflex
What is the timing for oestrus detection?
2x daily at 7am and 4pm
What is the target weight for sows by the sixth parity?
240kg
What should be the condition score of a sow at farrowing?
Condition score of 3
Fill in the blank: The weight loss during lactation should be no more than _______.
10-15kg
