Farm Animal Welfare

Pig Coccidiosis Welfare and Neonatal Management

Coccidiosis in neonatal piglets causes diarrhoea and significant welfare harm in the first weeks of life.

Key Facts

Isospora suis causes coccidiosis in piglets between 5 and 21 days of age
The disease causes greasy yellow diarrhoea and growth retardation
Bedding contamination is a major transmission route between litters
Toltrazuril treatment at 3-5 days prevents clinical disease effectively
Farrowing unit hygiene between batches is critical for reducing infection pressure

Welfare Considerations

Neonatal piglet coccidiosis causes preventable suffering through diarrhoea, dehydration and growth setback. Strategic toltrazuril treatment combined with rigorous farrowing unit hygiene substantially reduces disease burden.

What You Can Do

Implement strategic toltrazuril treatment programmes for piglets on affected farms
Ensure thorough cleaning and disinfection between batches in farrowing accommodation
Work with a veterinarian to develop a coccidiosis control plan tailored to farm conditions