Farm Animals

Pig Wean-to-Service Interval and Sow Welfare

The wean-to-service interval (WSI) in sows is influenced by lactation length and body condition, with implications for sow welfare and reproductive efficiency.

Key Facts

Short lactation periods below 21 days extend subsequent WSI
Thin body condition at weaning delays return to oestrus
Long WSI is associated with reduced litter size in subsequent pregnancies
Nutritional support during lactation significantly affects WSI and sow welfare
Sows with short WSI are at risk of being culled for poor reproductive performance

Welfare Considerations

Sows experiencing prolonged WSI after nutritional depletion during lactation face additional stress from being separated from piglets while in poor body condition. Body condition scoring and nutritional management throughout the reproductive cycle are essential for sow welfare and longevity.

What You Can Do

Support welfare standards requiring minimum lactation length of 28 days
Advocate for sow longevity metrics in welfare assessments
Choose pork from farms with transparent sow culling rate reporting