Adequate colostrum intake in neonatal piglets is critical for immune protection and survival in the first weeks of life.
Colostrum deprivation leaves neonatal piglets immunologically naive and highly vulnerable to infection. The first 24 hours of life are the most critical welfare window, with adequate colostrum intake determining whether piglets survive the neonatal period. Colostrum management that ensures all piglets - particularly from large litters - receive adequate intake is a high-impact welfare intervention.