Farm Animals

Sow Teat Condition and Piglet Welfare

Teat condition in sows directly affects colostrum and milk transfer to piglets, with teat damage or MMA syndrome causing significant welfare impacts across the litter.

Key Facts

MMA syndrome (mastitis, metritis, agalactia) affects up to 20% of sows after farrowing
Poor teat condition causes milk let-down failure, leaving piglets hypoglycaemic
Teat damage from rough flooring or injuries reduces milk supply for entire litters
Sow nutrition and body condition at farrowing strongly influence teat health
Early detection of MMA enables treatment that restores milk supply and saves litters

Welfare Considerations

Teat health problems affect both sow and piglet welfare simultaneously. Preventing and treating them promptly prevents widespread suffering across the farrowing unit.

What You Can Do

Monitor all sows for signs of MMA within 24 hours of farrowing
Check teat condition and milk let-down in the first hours post-farrowing
Ensure smooth flooring in farrowing crates to protect teat condition
Maintain good sow body condition from entry to farrowing