Farm Animals

Pig Neonatal Diarrhoea Prevention and Management

Neonatal diarrhoea is a leading cause of piglet mortality and suffering, with prevention programmes critical to welfare.

Key Facts

Rotavirus, E. coli, and Clostridium are primary neonatal diarrhoea pathogens
Colostrum intake within 2 hours of birth is the most critical welfare and survival factor
Sow vaccination before farrowing passes protective immunity to piglets
Adequate creep area temperature prevents hypothermia that exacerbates diarrhoea mortality

Welfare Considerations

Neonatal diarrhoea causes dehydration, weakness, and death in piglets. Preventable with good management, failure to implement effective biosecurity, sow health programmes, and colostrum management represents a significant welfare failure.

What You Can Do

Support pig farming standards requiring colostrum management protocols
Advocate for neonatal mortality reduction targets in welfare audits
Encourage veterinary herd health planning for neonatal disease prevention