Postpartum changes in the lying behavior of sows in farrowing crates

The objective of the study was to compare the behavior of sows before and after farrowing with a focus on lying behavior and side preference in a lateral position. Collecting information on normal and deviant behaviors may consequently improve the care and welfare of animals and severe variations can indicate possible welfare issues. The study was conducted on a farrow-to-finish-farm with 14 crossbred sows. For each sow, behavior was analyzed by video observation (continuous sampling) on two days, one before (3 or 4 days after transfer to the trial compartment) and one after farrowing (2nd day after farrowing).
Source: Journal of Veterinary Behavior: Clinical Applications and Research - Category: Veterinary Research Authors: Source Type: research