Sow and piglet behavioral associations in farrowing pens with temporary crating, and in farrowing crates

The farrowing system in which a sow and her piglets are housed may influence the manner in which they interact with one another. Behavioral displays of sows in farrowing crates are limited, whereas pen-based alternatives to farrowing crates enable a greater range of behavioral expression, including interacting more with piglets. The associations between sow behavior and piglet behavior in crates and pens with temporary crating were compared using two different data sets. During days 1 – 6 post-farrowing, 15 sows and their litters were observed in farrowing crates, and 16 sows and their litters were observed in pens with temporary crating.
Source: Journal of Veterinary Behavior: Clinical Applications and Research - Category: Veterinary Research Authors: Source Type: research