Pigs Flashcards

Question

Describe group type I, II and III infectious causes of reproductive disorders in pigs?

Answer 1

I - ubiquitous micro organisms that occur as common commensals eg arcanobacterium pyogenes, E. coli, strep, salmonella. II - contagious microorganisms which are present in a high proportion of pig herds - PRRS, porcine parvovirus, leptospira. III - infections associated with severe reproductive diseases which are uncommon in the UK.

Answer 2

Insidious onset discharge, seen in 10-20 days post service. May persist for weeks/months if untreated or resolve spontaneously after 1-2 weeks. Discharge may arise from vagina, uterus, bladder or kidney inflammation. quantity of discharge varies from slight to copious - 500ml per day. typically up to 10% of served sows can show discharges and farrowing rates can be reduced to 75% due to regular or irregular returns to service and abortions. higher prevalence in higher parity sows >4 parity. Aetiology - mixed population of ubiquitous organisms e.g A pyogenes, E. coli, streptococci, pseudomonas eubacterium suis common in cystitis or pyelonephritis. Environmental factors are important - poor hygiene in sow/boar accommodation or service area. infection probably introduced at service when genitalia contaminated. the boars preputial diverticulum can also harbour infection.

Answer 3

Not all discharging sows return to service, some remain pregnant. if discharge is copious, sows are unlikely to be pregnant. treat discharging sows promptly with long acting broad spectrum antibiotic by injection or instillation via AI catheter. A slight discharge in the first week after service is of no pathogenic significance - usually due to seminal debris. do not re serve sows while discharging. once recovered, use AI for next service. avoid possible boar contamination. if discharging recurs or sow returns for a second/third time - cull. Cull sows at parity 7. Adopt stringent hygiene for boar pens, service pens and sow stalls/Accommodation especially that is used in the first 21 days post service - plenty of clean straw. boars can be treated with long acting broad spectrum antibiotic by injection and infuse prepuce with Intramammary tubes daily for 5 days. some units treat boars on a quarterly basis. If the problem is widespread - in feed antibiotic medication can be given to sows post weaning up to 28 days post service and to boars intermittently. treatment of a discharge problem needs to be maintained for approximately 6 months until all the sows have received a course of medication. prophylactic antibiotic treatment of sows at service eg long acting penicillin is useful when a discharging problem is detected in the early stages.

Answer 4

mastitis caused by a variety of coliform bacteria for example E col, kelbsiella, enterobacter, bacterial species common in the sows environment. Organisms come in contact with the teats through indequate hygiene or via piglets oral flora. Endotoxaemia is considered to be the cause of agalactia. septicaemia does not develop. Coliform mastitis does not appear to result in protective immunity (Recurrence at subsequent pregnancies has been recognised. Clinical signs seen at day 1 or 2 post farrowing, temperature response up to 42 C, listless, weak, loss of interest in piglets, prefer sternal recumbency, may become weak and comatose, reduced feed and water intake, signs last 2-33 days. Piglets gaunt and hungry looking, continually trying to feed, restless. skin over mammary area redenned. Subcutaneous oedema. udder may be hardened and paiinful. secretion from nipple may show evidence of mastitis. Some sub complexes may be unaffected causing secretion to appear normal. Treatment is broad spectrum antibiotics, NSAIDS, oxtocin. care for piglets, cross fostering/milk substitue. Prevent by good hygiene. Use of sulpha trimethoprim in feed from day 112 for 4 days is helpful when agalactia is becoming a more serious problem. Vaccines against enteric strains of coliforms not thought to prevent agalactiae.

Answer 5

Caused by an RNA virus- different strains occur. the acute phase of the disease lasts approx 4-16 weeks. features are : reproductive losses in pregnant stock, increased pre weaning mortality and influenza like illness affecting all ages of pigs. A common progression in breeding herds: non specific illness in sows, 1-2 weeks later reproductive losses followed by unthriftiness, respiratory illness and morality in piglets of all ages and growing stocks. blue ears, snout and vulva are only seen occasionally. reproductive problems include infertility, premature farrowing, stillbirths and weakly piglets born. No non porcine hosts identified. pig to pig transmission occurs readily through airborne spread, semen, fomites. Incubation period is 1-7 days, farrowing abnormalities and neonatal deaths follow after 14-28 days, foetal infection can occur following maternal challenge in late pregnancy resulting in pre and post natal disease, abortions may result from purely maternal illness. Diagnosis - clinical featurs, serology, rising titres but be aware of vaccination status, virus isolation from aborted stillborn or non viable piglets, PCR test for virus from blood, semen throat swabs. Prophylaxis management - buy replacements and AI semen from sero negative herds, ensure thorough biosecurity, apply vaccination policy if present in herd.

Answer 6

Four strains of influenza A occur in pigs. Acute phase lasts 4-16 weeks. influenza like illness, affecting al ages of pigs, reproductive losses in pregnant stock and increased pre weaning mortality. Clinical signs very similar to PRRS except respiratory signs are more widespread and severe especially if there are other endemic respiratory diseases on the farm. The virus enters the respiratory tract, multiplies rapidly in bronchial epitheliuum, virus disappears by 9-10 days post infection. animals can become viraemic. transplacental infection occurs. Infection can persist in units for many months causing persistent or recurring losses. virus is carried by pigs. maternal immunity demonstrable for up to 4 months and can interfere with development of active immunity. Management strategies - do not allow staff or visitors who are suffering from influenza to have contact with pigs. if free of swine influenza buy replacements from sero negative herds. Prevent introduction via vehicles etc. If present in herd: disinfection, expose gilts to breeding sows before pregnancy to establish immunity. Vaccine for pigs available in the UK: gripovac.

Answer 7

It is associated with SMEDI syndrome along with a number of enteroviruses. all reproduction associated clinical signs: stillbirths, mummification,embryonic death, infertility, irregular returns to oestrus, small litters. In non pregnant gilts and boars infection is of no consequence. signs depend on stage of pregnancy: 70 days gestation, stillbirths, live but weakly piglets. Spread by oronasal or venereal routes, viraemia, transplacental spread approx 10-14 days post infection. Spreads into boar reproductive organs and semen from approx 7-21 days post infection. Virus adheres to eggs, embryos and foetuses until they reach immunocompetence at approx 70 days gestation. Virus kills foetuses up to approx 70 days but pregnancy is maintained and piglets all mummified at birth or mixed mummified, stillborn and live piglets born. In immunocompetent piglets, virus causes endothelial damage and placentitis. live born piglets are either immune or infected imunotolerant. Vaccinate susceptible stock - incoming gilts sows and boars. Annual vaccination recommended, though not always done as producers often prefer to keep active infection in the herd to boost natural immunity.

Answer 8

L bratislava of most importance. More common in out door units. Causes abortion, stillbirths, weak piglets of reduced viability, abortion in last trimester common. Infertility, increased returns to service. Infection is by oro nasal, veneral routes. Bacteraemia, localised in renal tubules, shed in urine. Transplacental infection occurs, localises in uterus, foetal invasion, abortion 10 days - 4 weeks post infection. Infection can persist in both urinary and genital tract of sows and boars. subclinical infection common in hers. Treatment of individual animals is seldom justified. in feed medication of sows (chlortetracycline) for 1 month in spring and 1 month in autumn found to be beneficial. prevent contact with free living vectors.

Answer 9

Primarily associated with post weaning multisystemic wasting syndrome. most herds in the UK are endemically infected. when entering naive herds or infecting naive gilts it can cause reproductive problems including transient infertility, foetal re absorption and increased regular and irregular returns to oestrus. A vaccine is available for breeding age pigs and can be used if PCV2 is thought to be affecting the herds reproductive performance.

Answer 10

PAthogenic E. coli - ETEC adhere to the mucosa of the small intestine by means of fimbiral adhesins. they colonise the small intestine and produce one or more enterotoxins. both neonatal and post weaning colibacillosis are most commonly cause by ETEC producing heat labile toxin or vero toxigenic E. coli producing heat stable toxins. both act in the gut and stimulate hypersecretions of mucin and electrolytes resulting in acute diarrhoea and dehydration. Infection of newborn pigs is by faecal oral route. Lack of colostrum and management factors such as low ambient temperatures reduce the vigour and feed intake of piglets leading to increased susceptibility to diarrhoea. Clincal signs are watery darrhoea, dehydration, metabolic acidosis, vomiting and depression or sudden death. most common in pigs 0 -4 days of age and can appear as early as 2-3 hours after birth.

Answer 11

Treatment should consist of oral rehydration fluids and antibiotics. oral antibiotic treatment for piglets. maternal vaccination is effective if sufficient colostrum of good quality is consumed within the first hours of life, but good management, hygiene, ensuring adequate ambient temperature and colostrum intakes are also very important. selective breeding for resistance to K88+ and perhaps F18 fimbrial adhesins could have effect. Susceptibility to E. coli is dominant over resistance.

Answer 12

Rotaviruses replicate predomiantly in the cytoplasm of differentiated small intestinal epithelial cells. It results in small intestinal villous atrophy and severe enteritis. pigs become infected 7-40 days of age, via fecal oral route. adequate colostrum and milk intake will provide newborn piglets with maternal antibodies that persist 3-4 weeks. contaminated environment and adult animals serve as sources of infection. Signs range from mild diarrhoea and dehydration to severe fatal diarrhoea. diarrhoea affects piglets mainly between 5-14 days of age and lasts from 2-5 days. rotavirus can be detected in fecal samples using PAGE. Treatment should consist of electrolyte/fluid replacement. prevention and control depens on excellent hygiene and disinfection of the farrowing house. peroxygen disinfectant (virkon S) is effective. others are not. move sows and piglets into a different cleaned and disinfected farrowing crate at 4-5 days post farrowing which reduces the level of virus challenge.

Answer 13

Isospora suis. After ingestion of sporulated oocysts, the sporozoites leave the oocyst, penetrate the epithelial cells in the small intestine an multiplication takes palce. from 5 days post infection oocysts can be detected in the faeces. the oocysts sporulate within 48 hours at temperatures between 20C and 37 C. Affects newborn piglets in a contaminated environment which become infected via the faecal oral route from sow faeces and environmental contamination. Yellowish to greyish diarhoea of varying consistency, pilets thinner and hairier, morbidity high. Piglets that recover develop immunity. Colostral antibodies do not protect piglets from clinical coccidiosis. Histopathoogy shows degeneration of intestinal epithelium associated with colonisation by coccidial forms. villus atrophy and necrotic enteritis in morer sever cases. Piglets should be treated with toltrazurial orally at 3-5 days of age when outbreaks occur. repeat treatment might be required -5 days later. alternatively sulpha trimethoprim injections can be given at these times. electrolyte solutions should be use to combat dehydration. control depends on the maintenance of good hygiene, thorough washing and disinfection of farrowing pens between litters. the disinfectant of choice is oocide. sows should be washed before entering the farrowing house and faeces should be removed as frequently as possible.

Answer 14

The bacteria attaches to the epithelial cells of the jejunum and produces toxins, the necrotising beta toxin most important. death results from effects of intestinal damage and toxaemia. Fatal necrotic enteritis occurs mostly in piglets from 12 hours to 7 days. Beta toxin is very sensitive to trypsin. trypsin secretion is absent in pigs of less than 4 days of age. Clinically affected animals usually die. morbidity varies according to immune status of the sows. Faecal oral route of infectio from dam to piglet or piglet to piglet. it can persist in the environment in spore form or as a vegetative organism. Piglets may be found dead within 12-36 hours of birth. if noticed ill, watery haemorrhagic diarrhoea is profuse, the rectal temperature falls to 35C and the animal dies. Less acute cases may survive 2 days. Pathology of peracute cases shows intensely haemorrhagc small intestines and blood stained fluid in the abdominal cavity. Less acute cases may survive 2 days - the reddish brown liquid faeces contains shreds of necrotic debris.

Answer 15

Cryptosporidium parvum - infection is by the faecal oral route. the parasite attaches to the brush border of the small intestine and multiplies. Diarrhoea occurs from approximately 3 days post infection. oocysts appear in faeces approx 8-9 days post infection. immunity develops fairly rapidly. cryptosporidium is a zoonotic infection. Yellow brown watery diarrhoea from 7 days of age or more and persists for several days with piglets showing dehydration and weight loss. the gross findings are similar to piglets with rotavirus infection. Use electrolyte solutions to combat dehydration. Prevent by thorough cleaning and disinfection of farrowing pens between litters and maintaining good hygiene of farrowing pens during occupancy. a number of disinfectants are effective including hypchlorite and oocide. Oocysts can survive in faeces for 45 days.

Answer 16

It is caused by a highly pathogenic alpha corona virus strain related to the virus causing transmissible gastroenteritis. Spread by faecal oral route. introduction into a naive herd typically results in severe diarrhoea, vomiting, with very high morbidity and mortality levels within 2-4 days. Pigs that do survive will have a strong immunity. treatment is supportive to maintain hydraiton. prevention by thorough C&D, it appears to be sensitive to several common disinfectants as well as to heat over 70C for 10 minutes or room temperature for 7 days. The virus is present in the UK without causing any clinical problems. the worry is whether or not the immunity levels to the UK strains will protect the herd to the highly pathogenic strain.

Answer 17

Most commercial units wean piglets at 28 days of age. weaning is abrupt process and piglets experience major changes. There is villus atrophy - the villi can become reduced in height by 50% or more, which causes a reduction in the absorptive capacity of the small intestine and piglets might suffer diarrhoea as a direct result. Also piglets suffer a loss of protective effects of secretory igA that they had whilst sucking from the sow.

Answer 18

Achieving good weaning weights for piglets and even weaning wights within litters. the larger piglets fare best at weaning. use at opi quality starter ration. group piglets according to size retaining litter groups where possible housing should be suitable. ensure weaning accomodation is dry and warmed. maintain even environmental temperatures and prevent drafts. ensure clean feet and water readily accessible. all in all out systems with thorough washing cleaning and disinfecting pens between groups to help minimise post weaning enteric infections. outdoor huts should be moved to fresh ground between batches. Regeneration of villus heights occur by multiplication of crypt enterocytes. under optimal conditions normal villus height can be regained in 5-7 days.

Answer 19

ETEC K88 oor F18 strains. Infection is by faecal oral route. antibody protection acquired by piglets through colostrum wanes by the time piglets are weaned therefore maternal vaccination has little or no protective effect at this stage. Loss of protective effect of secretory IgA at weaning increases susceptibility. Watery diarrhoea is the main clinical sign the severity varies. sudden death, dehydration, metabolic acidosis, vomiting and depression may be seen. Most commonly seen in pigs 1-2 weeks after weaning but pigs may be affected up to 6 weeks pot weaning. Where there is toxaemia associated with E. coli infection pigs may show neurological signs similar to meningitis - ataxia, recumbency, paddling limb movements, with or without diarrhoea. this occurs due to cerebrovascular angiopathy. In oedema disease pigs show subcutaneous oedema affecting the head and eyelids. Treatment should consist of oral rehydration fluids and antibiotics. if cases are sporadic pigs can be treated with antibiotics individually but in out break situations antibiotics are administered to entire pens via feed or water.Good hygiene and minimising stress factors at weaning is very important or prevention of E. coli. In units with regular problems of post weaning, the use of a high concentration of zinc oxie in the diet for two weeks after weaning is beneficial. It controls E. coli by reducing microbioogical proliferation in the gut.

Answer 20

PE is caused by obligately intracellular bacteria Lawsonia intracellularis. It colonises epithelial cells of the small and large intestine. the bacteria impede maturation at the epithelial cells, they continue to undergo mitosis and form hyperplastic cryps. Intracellular bacteria and histological changes are first evident 8-10 days after exposure. blocking of nutrient absorption by thickened intestinal mucosa leads to reduction in weight gain and altered feed conversion. Transmission occurs via faecal oral route. Pigs develop immunity and infection generally resolves in 21-28 days. Most common between 6-14 weeks of age. Clinical signs - diarrhoea and failure to sustain growth despite normal feed intake. with necrotic enteritis or regional ileitis pigs show severe loss of condition and often scour persistently. Most cases recover spotaneously but within groups there is considerable size variation in the pigs. cases are pale and have diarrhoea which is dark coloured. Anorexic and dull cases require urgent antibiotic treatment. Intestinal wall is visibly thiickened and overall diameter is increased.

Answer 21

Oral antibiotic treatment of clinically affected pigs eg chlortetracycline, tylosin, tiamulin. where PE is endemic in growing pigs, regular strategic medication in combination with management procedures (all in all out, washing and disinfecting pens) is necessary to minimise production losses. potential problems with this strategy are that time of infection is variable and thus the antibiotics are too early (nobuild up of immunity) or too late (intestines already damaged). Some strains may remain viable for 1-2 weeks at 5C in the environment. only quaternary ammonium compounds and iodine based compounds show bactericidal activity against L intracellularis. cases of PHE need a parenteral antibiotic treatment, tetracycline is the drug of choice. For prophylaxis a vaccine comprised of a live attenuated strain of L intracellularis is administered in the drinking water to pigs at approximately from 3 weeks of age. It takes 3 weeks for immunity to be effective, thus vaccination needs to take place 6 weeks before clinical signs.

Answer 22

Caused by spirochaete brachyspira hyodysenteria. the organism colonises the large intestine in 2-4 days, multiplies in the crypts, invades the goblet cells and causes damage and disruption to epithelial cells. Typhlocolitis develops within 5-7 days of infection. Goblet cell hyperplasia and excess mucus production occurs resulting in diarrhoeic faeces containing mucus and sometimes blood. Infection is by faecal oral route. The main risk of introducing infection is sub clinically infected pigs, infected pig lorries and contaminated boots worn by visitors. Diarrhoea starts from 5-7 days post infection, fresh blood may be seen in faeces and excess mucus is a feature from 10 day post infection. Clinical disease lasts 10-14 days. affected pigs show sings ranging from moderate diarrhoea to severe illness and death. pigs with Haemorrhagic diarrhoea appear guant, weak and become anorexic and severely lethargic. No reliable serological tests for B hydodysenteriae infection. Treatment and prevention: tiamulin and valnemulin are the drugs of choice but lincomycin is also effective in some cases. Macrolides have a variable level of sucess. Good hygiene, management, cleaning and disinfecting buildings, medication can be given in feed or water (latter is preferable), individual sick pigs can be treated with antibiotics. Some trains of B hyodysenteriae have developed resistance to antimicrobials. no vaccines available. Minimal disease herds free from swine dysentery.

Answer 23

complete depopulation of the herd with thorough cleaning and disinfecting plus a minimum of three weeks vacant restock with SPF pigs, 2) de population of the growing herd, sows moved off site for a minimum of two weeks and medicated in feed, thorough cleaning and disinfecting of empty buildings, sows moved back to the farm, suckling piglets get injected with tiamulin, pigs weaned thereafter remain on the farm. 3) depopulation of the growing herd, sows stay on farm and receive in feed medication, thorough cleaning and disinfecting of empty buildings and sow accomodation as best as possible.

Answer 24

Caused by the spirochaete brachyspira pilosicoli. The pathogenesis is similar to B hyodysenteriae except that the degree of inflammation is milder and haemorrhage is not a feature unless the infection is complicated by another infectious agent. the infection does not usually result in fatalities. Affected pigs show signs ranging from cow pat type diarrhoea to watery grey diarrhoea. pigs retain normal appetite and vigour. Morbidity within infected groups can range from 10-50%. Affected pigs show reduced growth rates resulting in significant size variation within groups. Infection is by faecal oral route. pigs become infected from a contaminated environment and from in contact pigs. The organism can survive for several weeks in wet anaerobic conditions. This is a zooonotic infection. Control and infection follows the same principles and procedures as for swine dysentery. B pilosicoli is susceptible to th same antimicrobial agents.

Answer 25

Salmonella is caused by serovars of salmonella enterica e.g typhimurium, derby, choleraesuis. S typhimurium is the most prevalent serovar of pigs. Most pathogenic salmonellae have fimbriae and flagella which are involved in attachment and invasion. The organism multiplies in the small intestine. diarrhoea is a result of malabsorption and fluid leakage from the necrotic inflamed bowel. Infection is via the faecal oral route and is most common in pigs from weaning to about 4 moths of age. salmonellae are hardy, ubiquitous and can survive for years in suitable organic substrates. High animal density, stress of transport and intercurrent disease are assumed to incraese the shedding by carriers as well as the susceptibility of exposed pigs. Transmission to personnel is a risk. Majority of infections are subclinical. when diarrhoea occurs it is initially watery and yellow without blood or mucous. later, blood may appear sporadically in the faeces. Acutely affected pigs are febrile, dull dehydrated and have a decreased feed intake. S enterica serovar typhimurium infection causes a range in severity of lesions from focal mild enteritis or colitis to diffuse necrotic enteritis, colitis or typhlitis. Antibiotic treatment is only indicated in the event of outbreaks causing clinical illness in pigs. during outbreaks, oral medication with an appropriate agent according to sensitivity profiles is beneficial. isolation of sick pigs, scrupulous cleaning and disinfecting of peens and restricting movement of pigs and staff from contaminated to clean areas is necessary. control depends on good hygiene and management, all in all out movement of pigs with cleaning and disinfecting buildings between batches. High temperature processing of feed is important. control of rodents as they carry salmonellae in the intestine.

Answer 26

Hyostrongylus rubidus stomach worm can colonise the stomach causing weight loss especially in adult breeding stock. parasites that can give rise to enteritis and colitis are ascaris suum, trichuris suis and oesophagostomum spp. On most units parasitic infections are well controlled through regular use of broad spectrum and anti parasitic agents such as avermectins. if parasitic infections are suspected faeces samples can be examined for worm eggs.

Answer 27

Factors linked to feed processing and dietary factors (high wheat diets) are important. Particle size (too fine), pelleted feed and low fibre content of the diet are known risk factors. interruption of feed intake is another cause of ulcer development in the pars oesophagea. helicobacter pylori like bacteria might play a role in ulcer development. the pars oesophagea does not secret mucus. small feed particles results in greater fluidity of stomach contents and increased mixing resulting in loss of the pH gradient between the pars oesophagea and the pyloric region. gastric acid and pepsin coming in contact with the unprotected epithelial lining of the pars oesopagea. Highest incidence in pigs 3-6 months of age. most gastric ulcers are undetected. if ulcers are severe, pigs can be found dead due to sudden severe haemorrhage into the stomach. If blood loss occurs more slowly pigs become pale and anaemic and pass black tarry faeces. ulcers of the pars oesophagea vary in size and are readily evident. Scarring may be present in ases of severe ulcer that have survived. rarely this can lead to occlusion of the oesophageal opening into the stomach.

Answer 28

Whey bloat can occur in pis with unlimited access to fresh whey. sudden excessive intestinal fermentation causes gaseous over distension and increased intra abdominal pressure. if severe this occludes venous return via the major mesenteric veins and this proves fatal. the intestines have the haemorrhagic appearance of intestinal volvulus around the root of the mesentery but no twist can be found at PM examination.

Answer 29

Caused by the bacterium bordetella bronchiseptica. It colonises the nasal passages of suckling piglets causing rhinitis, sneezing and mild turbinate atrophy. It can also affect the lungs, particularly the cranial lung lobes causing purulent pneumonia. Toxins are produced by the bacteria, these are then absorbed and cause turbinate atrophy in 14-21 days. Turbinate atrophy resolves following antibiotic treatment or once piglets develop immunity. Infection common and is present on most pig units. Infection by aerosol or contact. Colostral immunity is not entirely protective. Sneezing occurs in piglets from 1 week of age, it can be paroxysmal with snorting and epsitaxis. coughing occurs if pneumonia is involed. piglets may be febrile. although piglets are hungry they find it difficult to suckle as rhinitis prevents them breathing during suckling. there is exudate in the nasal passages, congestion and atrophy of turbinates. Bronchopneumonia may be in cranial and middle lung lobes. sensitive to wide range of antibiotics. use parenteral treatment with long acting agents in severe cases. depending on sensitivity, orally administered antibiotics can be used. Antibiotic medication of sows during large outbreaks not generally been succesful. Small farrowing room swith good ventilation operated on an all in all out basis are the best systems for preventing respiratory infections in suckling piglets. killed vaccines are available for use in sows to boost colostrum immunity.

Answer 30

Mycoplasma hyopneumonia. Organisms remain on the surcae of the bronchial/bronchiolar epithelium between cilia and a chronic infection is established. Infection impedes normal ciliary clearance of mucous and inflammatory reaction occurs. Pneumonia is evident grossly from 7-14 days post infection and persists as a chronic active lesion for up too 3 months or longer post infection. IgA s present in tracheal secretions from 30 days post infection but not very effective in clearing established infections. Enzootic pneumonia is one of the most common diseases. Piglets become infected from carrier sows or other infected piglets in the same airspace. The disease presents as an acute outbreak of pneumoniia, pigs are febrile, cough and may show respiratory distress. in endemic infections there is coughing in weaners and growers. It is sensitive to a range of antibiotics including tetracyclines, lincomycin, tilmicosin and nrofloxacin. during outbreks, pigs are usually medicated via water or feed but individual sick pigs might require parenteral antibiotics as well as NSAIDS. Effective vaccines are available. mostly used in piglets at 3-4 weeks of age. EP can be eradicated from herds through complete depopulation and re stocking with EP free stock or partial depopulation, vaccination, medication and thorough cleaning of buildings.

Answer 31

Actinobacillus pleuopneumoniae is the cause of pleuropnuemonia which is highly contagious, causes a severe clinical illness and can prove fatal. Infection is mainly by aerosol, bacteria are inhaled and colonise the respiratory passages, especially the alveoli in the caudal lung lobes. Bacteria multiply and rapidly produce ApX toxins casing congestion and oedema of alveolar tissues. Pigs most commonly affected 2-5 months of age. Infected pigs that survive can carry the infection for many months in tonsils and act as a source of infection. The organism can survive in cool damp conditions for several days and successive batches of pigs can become infected unless buildings are properly cleaned and disinfected. In acute outbreaks large numbers of pigs suffer depression, anorexia and high temperatures, lethargy and respiratory distress. Death can occur within a few hours.Pigs that die as a result of this infection show severe pleuopneumonia. the caudal lung lobes in particular show multifocal raised haemorrhagic lesions.

Answer 32

Presence of A pleuropneumonia can be confirmed by PCR testing. Medication of large numbers of pigs normally required as the disease occurs in outbreaks. This is usually done via water medication. the agent is susceptible to a wide range of antimicrobial agents including penicillin, tetracycline, tilmicosin, enrofloxacin. Parenteral antibiotic and NSAID treatment is required for individual sick pigs. Herds that are free from APP should source replacement pigs from known APP free breeding herds. These herds are monitored in the slaughterhouse for prevalence of pleurisy and plucks are examined for any evidence of APP lung lesions. herds with endemic infection need prophylactic medication strategies to control infection, in combination with management procedures as described for EP. It is advisable to eradicate this infection from herds by depopulation or partial depopulation, medication and cleaning.

Answer 33

There are many agents including PRRS virus, swine influenza virus, porrcine circovirus type 2 and porcine respiratory coronavirus. Viruses are transmitted between pigs via aerosols and direct contact. all these viruses cause a transient viraemia and localise in the respiratory tract and other organs. in the lungs these viruses cause interstitial pneumonia. Swine influenza virus also causes a necrotising bronchiolitis. sine influenza virus is zoonotic. These viruses cause pneumonia primarily in weaners and growers. they can form part of a complex pneumonia infection involving several agents. Clinical signs include coughing, lethargy, inappetence and poor growth. Deaths can occur especially with swine influenza or when lesions are complicated by bacterial infections. Consolidated lung lesions are found in antero ventral lung lobes but can extend into large areas of the caudal lung lobes as well. Vaccines available against PRRs, PCV2 and SIV.

Answer 34

A severe bacterial rhinitis causing permanent turbinate atrophy caused by the toxigenic pasteurella multocida. It colonises the nasal passages and strains that cause PAR have the tox A gene and produce a dermonecrotic toxin. the toxiin causes degeneration and necrosis of osteoblasts and accelerated osteoclastic activity. the boney core of the turbinates undergoes atrophy and secondary atrophy of the mucosa follows. the whole turbinate can disappear within 2 weeks. deviation of the septum may occur in association with the turbinate atrophy. Many herds in the Uk are free of PAR and infection is introduced by carrier pigs. transmission is by aerosol or direct contact. environmental contamination occurs and organism can remain viable for several days. Infection often occurs concurrently with bordetella infection. Poor environmental conditions and management practices promote the development of PAR. Sneezing in weaners is the earliest clinical signs. this can be accompanied by epistaxis if sneezing is severe. Pigs that have been affected for 2-3 weeks show shortening of the snout with or without deviation. growth rates are depressed as pigs eat less. pigs are also more susceptible to pneumonia as they readily inhale particulate matter. The snout abnormality is evident externally. Herds free form infection should take care to source PAR free replacement breeding stock. Susceptible to a wide range of antibiotics.

Answer 35

Streptococcus suis has a number of different serotypes which vary in their virulence potential. Serotype 2 is most important and causes meningitis. Infection occurs by aerosol or contact with carrier pigs. bacteria colonise the tonsils, multiply and gain access to the circulation causing bacteraemia or septicaemia. The infection localise in the target tissues causing inflammation. piglets that survive can be long term carriers of S suis in the tonsil. Infection can be passed to piglets from carrier sows or infection can be spread between pen mates after weaning. poor housing conditions and overstocking promote spread of infection. The bacteria can survive in the environment or on fomites for 2 weeks ore more if conditions are cool and damp. Joint ill occurs in suckling piglets and weaners. piglets are febrile with one or more swollen joints which are painful causing lameness. S suis is usually susceptible to a wide range of antibiotics. suckling piglets are treated individually with courses of antibiotics by injection. Weaners can be treated by water or feed medication. Cases of meningitis must be removed from pens, placed in hospital accommodation and treated with antibiotics and NSAIDS by injection. Penicillin is usually highly effective. Nursing care s important to ensure piglets can access water. bedding must be provided in hospital pens and environmental temperatures should be suitable for ages of pig being hospitalised. Attempts to eradicate often unsuccessful due to tonsillar carriage of organism. Autogenous vaccine can be prepared or licensed vaccination available in UK.

Answer 36

Staphylococcus hyicus causes greasy pig disease - exudative epidermitis. it is a common skin infection which can cause extensive lesions and prove fatal. Infection occurs through contact with infected pigs and it can spread rapidly within groups. trauma to the skin through teeth marks, mange infectioon, rough bedding or sharp projecting objects in pens predipose to infection.. Bacteria multiply in the epidermis causing conggestion, inflammation, fibrin exudation and increased sebaceous gland secretions. scabs form in the affected areas. common and outbreaks occur for no apparent reason. housing factors such as high humidity promote colonisation of the skin by S hycus. piglets are most commonly affected from 2-6 weeks of age. Sows and gilts occasionally affected lesions present as small multifocal scabby lesions. Epidermitis causes skin congestion and multifocal areas of scab formation. Unless response to treatment is rapid, pigs should be euthanased on welfare grounds. Severe cases may have cracks that ooze serous fluid. No pruritis is seen. S hyicus is generally susceptible to a range of antibiotics. the treatment strategy depends on numbers of pigs affected. the best response is obtained with antibiotics by injection. Antibiotic creams applied to the skin speed recovery. severe cases should always be treated by injection and anti inflammatory agents should be used to help alleviate the severity of the lesions. Large affected groups should be treated in water or feed. Buildings that have housed infected pig should be thoroughly cleaned, disinfected and dried out before a new batch of piglets is moved in. no vaccines available.

Answer 37

Caused by haemophilus parasuis and is characterised by fibrinous poly serositis in Weaners and grower pigs. infection is by aerosol, pigs develop septicaemia, polyserositis, pneumonia, and sometimes rhinitis and meningitis. immunity develops in pigs that recover. Infection is spread by carrier pigs, direct contact and aerosols. some 14 or more serovars are thought to exist. The disease occurs most commonly in weaned pigs from 1-3 months of age. onset of disease is sudden, pigs become febrile anorexic show signs pf pneumonia, lameness, stiffness and recumbency. there can be blotchy skin discolouration mainly reddening of skin or peripheral cyanosis. Pigs that die acutely show fibrinous polyserositis, pericarditis and polyarthritis pneumoniia and meningitis can occur. Joint fluid is fibrinosu or turbid. in chronic cases, fibrous adhesions are present in body cavities. chronic fibrous pericarditis with complete adhesion of pericardium can cause cardiac insufficiency. ORganism is sensitive to a wide range of antibiotics. Treat in feed or water. an inactivated vaccine containing mycoplasma hyopneumoniae and haemophilus parasuis can be used in piglets for prevnting/controlling both infections.

Answer 38

Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae - septicaemia and diamond shaped skin haemorrhages or a chronic syndrome characterised by Polyarthritis and vegetative endocarditis. Infection can enter through the tonsils, gut or skin abrasions. in the acute form, pigs develop septicaemia, become febrile and can die as a result. High fevers can cause abortion in pregnant gilts and sows. When infection localises in joints there is acute synovitis followed by chronic reactive changes in the synovial membrane and perarticular fibrosis. Localisation in skin causes skin infarcts. E rhusopathieae is a soil associated organism and is carried by pigs in tonsils. Buildings become contaminated and pigs get infected through contact. the organism is shed in faeces and urine can be carried by a variety of wildlife vectors. it is zoonotic and can infect people in contact with pigs. In the acute form pigs rom approximately 2 months of age to adult show high temperatures, lethargy, anorexia and red blotching of the skin. Sudden death can occur. diamond shaped skin lesions appear 1-2 days after onset of fever. They are raised, angry purple to red in colour. In the chronic form the skin lesions can become necrotic turn black and slough. the ear tips might also become necrotic and slough. Polyarthritis affects the limb joints. In the acute form the Carcase is congested and petechial haemorrhages might be present on pleura and epicardium. Penicillin is antibiotic of choice. thorough cleaning and disinfection of buildings prevents infection.

Answer 39

It causes arthritis in growing and finishing pigs. it also occurs commonly in breeding stock recently supplied to farms. M hyosynoviae is carried in the tonsils of many pigs. susceptible pigs are infected by the oronasal route, septicaemia follows with localisation in joints causing synovitis. Pigs develop acute lameness on one or more limbs, joint capsule swell. The synovial fluid in affected joints is cloudy and fibrinous. The synovial fluid in affected joints is cloudy and fibrinous. synovial membranes are congested, oedematous and show inflammatory changes. drainage lymph nodes are usually reactive. Clinical signs, pathology, isolation of M hyosynoviae from joint fluid for diagnosis. the organism is susceptive to a range of antibiotics including lincomycin, chlortetracycline, tiamutin and enrofloxacin. acutely affected pigs are treated with antibiotics by injection. To prevent infection in newly introduced breeding stock they are often given a short course of antibiotics in feed shortly after arrival on the farm.

Answer 40

Caused by pathogenic strains of porcine CircoVirus 2. Infection spreads by direct contact between pigs and aerosol, also in semen. Infected piglets become viraemic with localisation of PCV2 in several organs, lymphoid tissues, lung and kidney. It has a direct effect on lymphoid follicles and B lymphocytes resulting in lymphocyte depletion. Viral type enteritis, pneumonia and interstitial nephritis result from viral replication in these tissues. sitmulation of the immune system by other agents e.g pocine parvovirus, PRRS and bacterial infections may play a role in disease development. PMWS affects piglets between 6-12 weeks of age. clinical signs aare variable but include anorexia, weight loss, lethargy, coughing and a hariy gaunt appearnce. Enlarged peripheral LNS are important feature in wasting piglets. outbreaks persist for months and once affected piglets can take weeks to recover. usually culled and this contributes to the high levels of post weaning mortality associated with this disease. PCV2 can be demonstrated in tissues by immunohistochemistry or in situ hybridisation. Treatment - antibiotics to control secondary bacterial infections, vaccination management practices.

Answer 41

A highly infectious coronavirus infection of pigs that causes diarrhoea and dehydration in pigs of all ages and high mortality in young pigs. the virus is called the TGE virus. infection is by oral ingestion or inhalation of virus particles. the incubation period is 1-22 days. the virus invades epithelial cells of the gut and respiratory tracts and replicates followed by viraemia. In the intetine, infection spreads rapidly along the entire length of the small intestine causing diffuse changes. there is acute degeneration of epithelium at the tips of the villi, and the epithelium detaches resulting in severe villus atrophy. Absorption of fluid and nutrients from the small intestine is severely reduced piglets develop watery diarrhoea, dehydration and hypoglycaemia. Introduction is by carrier pigs, lorries etc, wind transmission up to 2km, spreading slurry is a risk factor. Large amounts of virus are shed and infection sweeps through unit very rapidly. The disease presents as explosive outbreaks of diarrhoea affecting all ages of pigs it is watery and yellowish in young pigs and watery grey in weaning onwards pigs. suckling piglets suffer very high mortality due to dehydration. During outbreaks fluid replacement through electrolyte solutions should be use as widely as possible and increased provision of water is required. milk replacements should be given and severely affected piglets should be destroyed. No vaccines in the UK.

Answer 42

A contagious coronavirus infection of pigs that causes diarrhoea in all ages of pigs and a high mortality in suckling pigs caused by a coronavirus. Replication is confined to the intestine. villus atrophy, severe diarrhoea and dehydration occurs. PED can be introduced via carrier pigs, infection on lorries etc. there are explosive outbreaks of diarrhoea similar to TGE. a sharp drop in feed consumption can be recorded in 1-2 days preceding outbreak. vomiting is seen and sows develop agalactia. Mortality in suckling piglets can be very high and in young weaned piglets it can be in the order of 20-50%. Virus detection by immunoflueoresnce, PCR, or virus isolation differentiates it to TGE.

Answer 43

PIBR is caused by a cytoegalovirus and results in outbreaks of rhinitis in young suckling piglets. transplacental infection can occur in pregnant sows causing foetal infection and mortality. Infection is by oro nasal route. in adult non immune pigs virus affects the nasal epithelium and submucosal glands and replicates. viraemia occurs at 14- 21 days post infection and virus can cros the plcenta at this stage causing foetal infection and mortality. foetuses infected in late gestation are born sero negative. Infection is introduced by carrier pigs. Latent infections re activated by moving and mixing of pigs. rhinitis is usually confiend to suckling piglets between 10 days and 3 weeks of age. they show sneezing, respiratory difficulty, dyspnoea, difficulty with suckling, weight loss and lethargy. morbidity is high and mortality can reach 50%. SMEDI syndrome can occur in sows. AFfecteed piglets have congestion of the nasal mucosa with accumulations of muco purulent material. Provide fluids and milk replacements, treat with antibiotics to control secondary bacterial infections. no vaccines available.

Answer 44

A viral agent affects the non immune pregnant sow or gilts at approximately day 30-40 of gestation. the agent affects foetal neurological development causing varying degrees of cerebellar hypoplasia and hypomyelinogenesis. A high proportion of litters from sows of all ages can be affected. after one affected litter subsequent litters are usually normal. Newborn piglets show neurological deficits ranging from mild trembling to severe body shaking making piglets unable to stand or suckle. in piglets that survive the first seven days the tremor gradually disappears. piglet are usually normal by 4-5 weeks of age. no clinical signs are apparent in older pigs. cerebellar hypoplasia might be apparent on pathology. Supportive treatment should be given to the most severly affected piglets to try and keep them alive for the first seven days. after this they can often be capable of suckling and can be reared with care. Sows and gilts should be exposed to infected piglets to generate immunity before service. once endemic, incoming gilts should be exposed to young piglets or to sweepings and bedding material from farrowing house before they are served.

Answer 45

Sarcoptes scabei var suis, mites burrow into the skin and multiply. burrowing causes intense pruritis. pigs rubs against fixed objects and the skin becomes traumatised. there is some serum exudation and crusting with inflammatory changes in skin. Hyperkeratinisation occurs as a chronic change. female mites lay eggs in burrows in the ski eggs hatch an go through larvel and nymphal stages before becoming adults. the life cycle usually takes 14-15 days and multiplication can only take place on pigs. Infection spreads by direct contact between pigs. sow to piglet transmission is common. mites can survive for up to 3 weeks away from the host in moist cool environments. Scratching and rubbing are first signs of infection. lesions present as small red papules and erythematous skin lesions especially on the head, neck, axilla and hind quarters. Rubbing causes crusting and thick scab formation.

Answer 46

microscopic examination of ear wax taken from as deep within the ear as possible looking for mites. skin scrapings can be taken from newly affected areas. apply glycerine to skin before scraping in order to retain the scraped material on the scalpel blade. An ELISA is available to demonstrate presence of antibodies to S scabei var suis. Treatment - with avermectins. for adult pigs - via injection and for weaners in feed to control mange and internal parasites. boars should be treated every 2-3 months, gilts at 1-2 weeks before first service and sows and gilts on every to the farrowing house. if mange control is successful in adult stock, new born piglets and weaners going into properly cleaned buildings should not become infected. Mange can be eradicated from units by treating all breeding animals with two doses of avrermectin with an interval of 14 days.

Answer 47

Unknown oriigin, possibly genetic, contact factor is suspected. Lesions appear after weaning, usually from about 4 weeks of age. it oonly affects individual animals within groups. lesions appear as iregular hyperaemic patches on the belly flanks groin or thighs and expand rapidly to form large lesions with reddened margins. the central area of lesions can remain redened or may revert to nromal in appearance over 1-2 weeks. the lesions become scabby and unsightly, often expanding across the entire belly and onto limbs. Not pruritic and do not appear to be painful. Self limiting and resolved over 1-2 months. If significant secondary bacterial infection is suspected, a course of antibiotics should be given. if the lesions are being traumatised by other pigs in the group, the affected pigs should be moved into hospital accomodation.

Answer 48

Characterised by skin and kidney lesions, due to an immune complex disorder. Syndrome often seen in conjunction with outbreaks of PMWS so PCV2 virus is considered to be involved. The lesions are due to an immune complex vasculitis, occurring primarily in kidney causing severe glomerulonpehrits, but also in the skin causing multifocal areas of haemorrhagic dermatitis and skin necrosis. Immune complexes are thought to form in excessive quantities in response to chronic antigen challenge. Immune complexes then become deposited on the vascular endothelium giving rise to vasculitis. severely affected pigs become uraemic and die from renal failure. Severely affected pigs should be euthanased. mildly affected pigs can be given anti inflammatory agents to try and limit the extent and severity of vasculitis. in the event of outbreaks, it is worth treating younger age groups of pigs with in feed antibiotics as a mean of controlling gram negative infections such as P multocida.

Answer 49

A chronic skin disorder of pigs caused by zinc deficiency in the diet. it is rarely seen nowadays due to the widespread use of commercial compounds rations or preprepared vitamin and mineral balances. Can occur due to absolute deficiency of zinc in the diet or due to factors that prevent absorption of zinc from the gut such as high levels of phytic acid from soya or wheat. Zinc deficiency reduces the biosynthesis of essential fatty acids and that interferes with keratohyalin synthesis in the skin resulting in parakeratosis. Keratinisation is incomplete causing multifocal areas of skin thickening. Lesions particularly affect legs and ears but can extend over extensive areas of the body. The lesions become very crusted, blackened, get covered in debris and fissures form in the crusts, through which serum exudates may leak. The initial signs are congestion of the belly and limbs. areas of skin thickening occur thereafter, followed by development of thick scabs. The lesions are non pruritic. Treatment is by supplementation of the diet with adequate levels of zinc resulting in skin healing over 2-3 weeks.

Answer 50

This is an immune mediated condition of young pigs characterised by multiple petechial haemorrhages in skin and other organs. it arises due to piglets ingesting colostrum containing antibodies to their platelets. the condition is uncommon. antibodes to foetal thrombocyte antigens develop in sows by isoimmunisation. after ingesting colostrum, piglets suffer a progressive drop in thrombocyte numbers. Lesions of purpura appear when thrombocyte levels become critical and piglets die shortly thereafter. for the condition to occur the boar must have a different thrombocyte type from the sow and there must have been at least one previous parity to a boar with that thrombocyte type in order for the sow to become sensitised. Piglets become pale and weak with blotchy haemorrhages or petechiae on the skin. on PM petechiae are found throughout the carrcass. variable numbers of piglets in affected letters die. the strongest piglets that have ingested the most colostrum are the worst affected. When a case is seen clinically their best chance of recovery is to be transferred to another sow. once a sow has had an affected litter, the same boar or semen should not be used again.

Answer 51

The most common degenerative joint disease in pigs is osteochondrosis which affects limb joints causing lameness and leg weakness. the cause is unknown but it is thought to result from a combination of genetic susceptibility and rapid growth rates. Lesions occur most commonly on the medial condyles of the distal humeri and femurs causing lesions in elbow and stifle joints. Degeneration and disorganisation of the chondrocytes in articular cartilage is the earliest change seen. Flaps develop in articular cartilage and with movement and wear and tear in the joint these tear leaving ulcerated lesions. Chronic arthritis develops. lameness on one or more limbs, standing on tip toe, reluctance to bear weight on the affected limb, recumbency (inability to rise). Gilts may refuse to stand for service or collapse when mounted by the boar. Ensure that pigs with DJD are not retained for breeding.

Answer 52

Occurs when live electric wiring is directly accessible to pigs or when live wiring is in contact with metal fittings in pig pens. sudden deaths in specific pens with no previous clinical sign of illness is seen. some pigs may be seen dog sitting and unable to rise. other pigs may be unaffected. affected pigs are usually frothing at the mouth and burn marks may be seen at the point of contact, usually on the snout or the lips.

Answer 53

Several vices seen - which cause trauma and distress to victims. including ear biting, tail biting, bullying and vulval biting. The occurrence of vices usually indicates management failures such as overcrowding, insufficient trough space for feeding, variable sized pigs within a group and lack of substrate or play materials. In 2010 the EU introduced legislating relating to the provision of manipulable materials for pigs to allow them to express natural rooting and chewing behaviour. all farms by law must provide a sufficient quantity of manipulable material to all ages of pigs. straw bedding provides suitable material for pigs. Pigs in slatted systems cannot be given straw - but need too be given at least two types of item or else the type of item has to be changed weekly as pigs become bored of it. eg pig toys, ropes,p lastic tubes, tyres.

Answer 54

Vaccines used in adult stock to protect them against specific diseases eg erysipelas and parvovirus. vaccines used in adult stock to confer maternal immunity to neonatal piglets eg E. coli. Vaccines used in weaners to protect them against endemic diseaese in the home unit or in units to which they are destined for supply eg mycoplasma hyopneumoniiae, PRRS, porcine circovirus, haemophlilus parasuis and lawsonia intracellularis infections. Autogenous vaccines - in the event of a significant disease problem against which there are no commercially available vaccines - an autogenous vaccine can be made under license and use the pathogen isolated from a specific farm.

Answer 55

Water medication is the fastest method of medicating large numbers of pigs quickly. pigs that are ill will usually continue to drink whereas they might refuse to eat. In emergency situations immediate introduction of water medication can reduce the potential losses dramatically. the other benefit of using water mediation is that it can be used for a limited period of time thus limiting the amounts used. Medicating header tanks carries practical difficulties. tanks can be difficult to access. the ball cock has to be tied off once the tank is filled to obtain and maintain the correct concentration of the product. Proper mixing of the product in the tank must be assured. if there are high environmental temperatures the temperature within the header tank could cause products to degrade. The water supply might come directly off the mains i.e no header tank so not possible to medicate. pigs may be liquid fed which reduces their water intake. unduly high water pressure and flow rates result in high levels of wastage with wastage of the products. you should increase estimated medication by 10-12% to allow for this. Water medication often more expensive.

Answer 56

Covenient method for pigs that are not too ill. The feedmill prepares the medicated feedstuff for supply. There may be delays as equipment has to be fully cleaned out between and after medicated batches to ensure that accidental contamination of the following run does not occur. the flexibility of in feed medication can be poor in automated bulk systems. It may take some time for the medicated feed to work its way through to the troughs mixing with unmedicated feed can occur unless fully emptied. Errors can occur in mills and during delivery. it often means that antimicrobials are given longer than needed because the feed bin needs to be emptied before the next load can be given.

Answer 57

Injection is the most reliable and accurate method, with potentially the fastest and most predictable time of onset and duration of action. injectable antibiotics are required for pigs that are severely ill, but this is not a convenient option for large outbreaks due to the difficulty of restraining pigs for injection. SC: there is good blood supply to skin but the subcut fat layer is useless. the main site for most pigs is behind the ear or for small pigs inside the thigh. IM is generally avoided in growing and finishing pigs as residues and reactions could occur and reduce the value of the carcase. don't inject into hind limb muscle in a grower or finisher pig. IV:The highest immediate levels of drug by this method, but shortest period of effect. sterility is essential. a limited range of licensed products are available. depending on the size of pig, sites for IV injection are anterior vena cava, jugular or the ear vein. tuition and practice are needed to become proficient at intravenous administration.

Answer 58

This is applying medication at anticipated time of infection or during the incubation period. it is also used as part of disease elimination programmes. it requires good planning in order to incorporate all the important aspects of disease control, movement of pigs, all in all out systems, cleaning disinfection, good biosecurity plus medication. problems of food and water refusal are minimal as pigs are not ill. Essential prerequisites - identification of specific organism associated with the expected disease state, determination of drug sensitivity of the identified organism, knowledge of incubation period, thorough understanding of the management plan, risks and critical control points in disease elimination programmes.

Answer 59

This system is designed to rear growing pigs free from particular diseases. With isowean, piglets are usually weaned at 21 days or occasionally earlier under particular circumstances. At weaning piglets are given the most appropriate antibiotic against particular injection by injection and immediately moved to the isolated weaning accomodation. once they attain the correct size the batch is moved to the grower unit and subsequently to the finisher unit on an all in all out basi. they do not come into contact with other pigs and all units in the isowean programme are atleast 3km from any other pig unit to prevent aerial spread of infection to pigs.

Answer 60

this involves eliminating diseases from the breeding stock as well as the growing pigs. this is more complex and requires careful planning in order to be sucessful. the system works best if all the buildings on the unit can e depopulated in order to carry out effective decontamination. while the programme is taking place, piglets are sold off the farm as weaners in order to depopulate the grow-finish accomodation. this should allow the grow finish buildings to be segregated and thoroughly cleaned. managing the breeding stock works best if the unit is batch farrowing every three weeks rather than farrowing weekly. some units plan a longer gap in the breeding programme to get sows off site and clean the breding section of the facility. whilst off site the adults are medicated in feed with effective levels of the most appropriate antimicrobial agent. once the entire unit is cleaned and the adults have been medicated for the required length of time they are reintroduced to the decontaminated unit and farrowing re commences. Piglets born from the treated sows should be free from infection.

Answer 61

Local anaesthetic - procaine has MRL so can be used in pigs under cascade. Lignocaine has no MRL so should not be used in animals for human consumption. stresnil - azaperone - only sedative approved for pigs. General anaesthetic - nothing approved but under cascade - pentobarbetone, ketamine, halothane inhalation.

Answer 62

Residues and development of antimicrobial resistance. Residues are assessed by testing kidney of slaughtered pigs for antibiotics and heavy etals. strict adherence to withdrawal times is essential for preventing residue problems. Antimicrobial resistance - repeated use of antibiotics carry increased risk of antimicrobial resistance development. growth promoter antibiotics have been banned since 2006.

Answer 63

More docile types including vietnamese pot bellied pig and other asian breeds, kune kune from New Zealand and small types such as mini pig or micro pig that have been genetically selected for their small size. Some hobby farmers like having pigs that fulfill a dual role (pets and pork). breeds such as the tamworth are chosen as they are considerably smaller than commercial pigs and have good eating quality.

Answer 64

Get a country, parish holding CPH number that identifies where the pigs will be kept. seek veterinary advice on requirements for the animals welfare and compliance with legislation. Obtain an animal movement document from the seller (AML2) transport pigs in compliance with DEFRAs general license for moving pigs and register pigs within animal health within 3 days of arrival on the premises. a 20 day standstill for other pigs on the premises applies. Make sure the pig is properly and legally identified. AHVLA provide a herd mark that can be used on ear tags or tattoos. implement good bio security to protect both the health of pigs and their keepers.. accurate records of any pig movements on off premises. Must not move pigs without the proper license, or walk them without obtaining a walking license from animal health. In scotland pig walking off premises is not permitted. Do not feed pigs or allow pigs any access to any waste food, kitchen scraps or food that has come from a domestic or commercial kitchen.

Answer 65

best kept with atleast one other p ig. need a large enough area of well drained land to provide grazing and conditions that are dry underfoot. area of gavel at the water area is advisable as it prevents mud build up and abrades hooves. Food is best scattered around to forage. free access fresh clean drinking water must always be available. keep a body condition score of approximately 3 by not over or under feeding. adult pig requires 1% of bodyweight in concentrate feed daily. Pigs should be handled regularly so they are accustomed to being caught, restrained and turned over. Boars should be castrated at a young age. tusks might need to be trimmed regularly to avoid them becoming large and dangerous. females should be spayed at approx 10-12 weeks of age before onset of oestrus.

Answer 66

Treat with avermectins for worms and lice. If premises cannot be kept worm free pigs need to be treated every 4-6 months with benzimidazoles to avoid heavy infestations with ascaris and other parasites. All pet pigs should be vaccinated against eryspelas using an initial double injection course followed by 6 monthly vaccination.If it is planned to breed from gilts they should be vaccinated against parvo virus before getting served for the first 3 parities. Vaccination of gilts against E. coli and Clostridium perfringens type C should be done at 6 weeks and 3 weeks before first farrowing in subsequent pregnancies. When introducing any new pig to another or to a group care should be taken to ensure that this is done without casing undue injury through fighting. put pigs in adjacent pens for at least a week.

Answer 67

Obesity - results in higher level of inactivity, pressure sores, arhtritis, formation of infected skin folds. Skin problems - mange and ice, ticks and fleas from other pets. Sunburn - if no shelter available in hot weather, provide shaded areas if there is no natural shading in the pen. some pet pigs will use wallows and the mud cover will help against sunburn. others hate getting wet and will not use wallows. sunscreen should be applied to pink skinned pigs. Allergies - like other animals can be affected with contact dermatitis arising from cleaning agent, disinfectants etc. Erysipelas - causes skin lesions as described in commercial pigs. Eye problems include trauma due to accidental injuries and or eyelashes in eyes. Overgrown claws - tends to affect lateral claws more commonly than medial claws and they turn inwards causing pigs to adopt an abnormal gait if severe. All claws should be trimmed/filed regularly and owners can be trained to do this. Arthritis can be caused by obesity, general age related wear and tear or by infections. potential infectious causes are all those described for commercial pigs including erysipelas, streptococci, haemophilus parasuis and mycoplasma infections. Treatment with antibiotics and anti inflammatories with pain relief can be used. Tumours are fairly common in older pet pigs. these include melanoma, osteosarcoma, lymphosarcoma, leiomyoma (mainly of the uterus) and thyroid tumours. Cryptorchidism is quite common in pet pigs.

Answer 68

The pig does not produce digestive enzymes to break down fibre and dietayr fibre passes through to the hind gut where it is fermented by the bacteria (caecum and colon). This fermentation yields volatile fatty acids which are absorbed an contribute to the energy supply of the pig. However they are not utilised as efficiently as glucose absorbed frmo the small intestine and there is a loss of energy in the form of heat fermentation. thus the DE of these foods need to be corrected because of the lower effective energy yield.

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