Moving into farrowing house

Preparing correctly for farrowing is an important part of sow management and the production of healthy litters, as well as maintaining the sows’ good health and condition score for subsequent matings.

The pigs themselves should be cleaned to ensure they are not acting as a vector of disease. External parasites should be removed and/or treated accordingly, paying special attention to the udder, feet and vulva. Disinfecting the vulva and udder pre-entry to the farrowing shed is important to prevent disease transfer to the new piglets. Animal-safe, low-toxicity disinfectants with proven efficacy over a wide range of pathogens should be used. The farrowing pens, drinkers and feeding equipment should be cleaned and disinfected thoroughly before the sow is moved three to four days before parturition. For first parity gilts, entry should be around a week before farrowing to allow them to become accustomed to their new surroundings and management regime.

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