Inguinal (scrotal) hernias in piglets cause welfare compromise and require prompt veterinary management. Prevention through genetic selection reduces incidence.
Inguinal hernias cause discomfort that worsens as herniated tissue enlarges. Strangulated hernias cause severe pain, toxaemia, and death without surgical intervention. Prompt identification and veterinary management prevents avoidable suffering. Genetic selection in breeding programmes to reduce hernia predisposition prevents the welfare harm at source.