Sow loss can cause psychological harm to workers and also results in loss of profits. Sow longevity is decreasing even with the new genetic advancements and a switch to group housing. A survey is being done on reasons for culling and mortality for sows in Canadian farms. Group housing practices are also being researched to see what is most beneficial to the sows. Early mixing has been shown to decrease the number of stillborn pigs so far and more research is to come. Culling and mortality need better reporting measures as well. Less categories might help with accuracy and more consistent record keeping systems would lead to a higher reliability.
Research Targets Sow Mortality (full article)
