Farm Animals

Pig Farrowing Management and Piglet Loss

Managing the first 72 hours after farrowing is critical to reducing piglet losses from overlying, starvation and hypothermia, with direct welfare and productivity implications.

Key Facts

Pre-weaning piglet mortality in UK commercial herds averages 10-15% of all live-born piglets
The first 24 hours are highest risk: 60% of pre-weaning deaths occur in this period
Overlying (sow lying on piglets) accounts for approximately 50% of piglet deaths
Ensuring each piglet suckles within the first hour dramatically reduces hypothermia and starvation risk
Post-farrowing sow management affects milk let-down and piglet access to colostrum

Welfare Considerations

Pre-weaning piglet losses represent significant preventable suffering. Targeted management during the first 72 hours after farrowing reduces mortality and improves welfare for both piglets and sows.

What You Can Do

Support farms with documented farrowing supervision protocols including overnight checks
Advocate for farrowing mortality rates as a mandatory welfare and performance metric
Ask pork producers about their pre-weaning mortality rates and management protocols