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The cause of death in suckling piglets
Lactating piglets are among the most challenging animals to raise in swine production, with a mortality rate ranging from 15% to 20% from birth to weaning. This high mortality not only hinders herd growth but also leads to substantial economic losses for farmers. The majority of deaths occur within the first three days after birth, making this period critical for intervention and management.
Suckling piglets refer to pigs that are still nursing, typically from birth until weaning, which usually lasts between 21 to 35 days, depending on regional practices. During the fetal stage, piglets rely entirely on their mother for nutrients and waste removal, benefiting from a stable and controlled environment. However, once born, they face a dramatic shift in living conditions. They must start breathing air, digesting solid food, and adapting to external temperatures and environmental factors. These changes make birth one of the most stressful events in a pig’s life.
The survival and quality of suckling piglets depend largely on their ability to cope with these early-life stresses. Effective management during this period is crucial to ensure high survival rates, healthy growth, and uniform development. Good practices include maintaining clean and warm environments, ensuring proper colostrum intake, and minimizing stress through consistent routines and attentive care.
According to statistics, the majority of piglet deaths occur before weaning. Of these, 14% are stillborn, 16% die during farrowing, 16% on the day of birth, 15% on day one, 13% on day two, and 12% between days three and six. Deaths continue to occur up to 34 days post-birth, with 14% of all pre-weaning losses happening in that timeframe. Notably, 74% of total deaths occur within the first two days after birth.
The causes of death vary widely. Stillbirths account for 16%, accidents (such as crushing or suffocation) for 22%, infectious diseases for 15%, and weakness due to poor vitality for 4%. Other factors include genetic issues, poor maternal care, and inadequate farm management. As a result, the first week of life is the most vulnerable, especially the first three days, when mortality peaks.
To reduce losses, farmers must focus on improving breeding practices, enhancing nutrition, controlling disease, and providing optimal care during the neonatal period. By doing so, they can significantly improve piglet survival, set the stage for healthier growth, and ultimately increase the profitability of their swine operations.