Farm Animal Welfare

Pig Neonatal Mortality Prevention

Piglet losses in the first 72 hours of life represent a major welfare and economic problem that skilled management can significantly reduce.

Key Facts

Neonatal mortality averages 10-15% in commercial pig production in some countries
Hypothermia is the leading cause of neonatal death in piglets
Colostrum intake in the first 6 hours is critical for immunity and energy
Small and weak piglets from large litters need active management including nursing schedules
Cross-fostering can balance litter sizes and improve weaker piglet survival

Welfare Considerations

Neonatal piglet mortality represents preventable suffering and death. Hypothermic and starving piglets experience real distress before death. Active management including warming, colostrum support, and fostering reduces this suffering while improving productivity.

What You Can Do

Support stockperson training programs including neonatal pig management
Advocate for welfare standards that include neonatal mortality as an outcome measure
Choose pork from farms with demonstrated attention to neonatal piglet welfare