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 2 different data sets. During days 1-6 after 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: Tags: Research Source Type: research