Farm Animal Welfare

Farm Pig: Colostrum Composition and Piglet Welfare

The composition of sow colostrum varies significantly and directly affects the immunological protection and survival of newborn piglets.

Key Facts

Sow colostrum contains immunoglobulins, growth factors, and energy-dense nutrients for newborn piglets
Colostrum IgG concentration is highest at farrowing and declines rapidly over the first 24 hours
Large litters have lower average piglet colostrum intake per individual
Colostrum production can be enhanced by appropriate sow nutrition in late gestation
First-born piglets in a litter tend to receive more colostrum than later-born piglets

Welfare Considerations

Adequate colostrum intake is the most powerful single determinant of piglet welfare and survival. The first-litter disadvantage for later-born piglets creates a systematic welfare risk that can be managed through careful farrowing supervision and intervention to ensure all piglets access colostrum. Sow nutrition in late gestation that optimises colostrum quality and quantity is an investment in piglet welfare.

What You Can Do

Monitor all piglets for colostrum intake in the first two hours after farrowing
Assist late-born piglets in small litters to access teat positions
Ensure sow nutrition in late gestation includes adequate energy and protein
Implement tube feeding protocols for piglets that cannot suckle effectively
Record colostrum management outcomes to identify recurring welfare problems