Iron deficiency anaemia is a significant welfare problem in indoor piglets denied access to soil. Supplementation prevents suffering and improves health outcomes.
Iron deficiency anaemia in piglets causes pallor, weakness, poor growth, and increased susceptibility to disease. Anaemic piglets have significantly compromised welfare. Injectable iron supplementation at 2-3 days is a highly effective intervention that prevents substantial suffering at low cost and is a standard welfare requirement in indoor pig production.