Farm Animals

Pig Colostrum Management Neonatal Immunity

Colostrum intake in the first hours of life is essential for piglet survival and immune competence, with management critical in large litters.

Key Facts

Piglets are born with essentially no circulating antibodies and are entirely dependent on colostrum
Critical absorption window for immunoglobulins closes 24 to 36 hours after birth
Competition for teats in large litters leaves some piglets with inadequate colostrum intake
Split-suckling management ensures all piglets access the sow for colostrum before larger litter mates
Pooled colostrum from other sows can supplement piglets born to gilts with low production

Welfare Considerations

Piglets receiving insufficient colostrum are immunocompromised throughout their lives, suffering higher rates of disease and earlier mortality. Active management of colostrum intake is a critical welfare intervention.

What You Can Do

Support farms with documented colostrum management protocols for large litters
Advocate for training in neonatal piglet management as a standard for all pig producers
Choose pork from farms that employ farrowing supervision staff