A young female porcine before farrowing, also known as a gilt, requires special attention to ensure a healthy pregnancy and safe delivery. Proper nutrition, housing, and health management play a crucial role in preparing the gilt for farrowing (giving birth).
This topic covers everything about a young female pig before farrowing, including nutritional needs, signs of approaching labor, behavioral changes, and best practices for care.
What Is a Gilt?
A gilt is a young female pig that has not yet given birth. Once she has her first litter, she is referred to as a sow.
A gilt typically farrows for the first time between 10 and 12 months of age, depending on the breed and management practices. Ensuring she is in optimal health before farrowing improves the survival rate of the piglets and reduces complications.
Nutritional Requirements of a Gilt Before Farrowing
Proper nutrition is critical for a gilt’s health, fetal development, and milk production. Here are the key aspects of a well-balanced diet:
1. Energy and Protein Needs
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A gilt needs a balanced diet rich in protein to support the growth of her piglets.
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Feed with 14-16% crude protein helps in muscle and tissue development.
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Energy sources such as corn, barley, or wheat provide sufficient calories.
2. Minerals and Vitamins
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Calcium and phosphorus: Essential for strong bones and preventing leg issues.
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Iron: Helps prevent anemia in both the gilt and her piglets.
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Vitamins A, D, and E: Support immune function and reproductive health.
3. Fiber and Digestibility
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Including fiber-rich feed like alfalfa or beet pulp improves digestion.
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A high-fiber diet helps prevent constipation, which is common before farrowing.
4. Water Intake
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Fresh, clean water is crucial for hydration and milk production.
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A gilt should consume at least 5-6 gallons of water daily before farrowing.
Signs That a Gilt Is Near Farrowing
Understanding the signs of impending farrowing helps farmers prepare for a smooth and stress-free delivery.
1. Swelling of the Udder
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The mammary glands start filling with milk a few days before farrowing.
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The teats become firm and enlarged.
2. Nesting Behavior
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The gilt begins to gather bedding material to make a comfortable nest.
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She may appear restless and frequently lie down and stand up.
3. Changes in Appetite
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Some gilts lose their appetite 12-24 hours before farrowing.
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Others may still eat but show signs of discomfort.
4. Vaginal Discharge
- A clear or slightly white mucous discharge is a sign that farrowing is near.
5. Changes in Body Temperature
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The body temperature may drop slightly before labor begins.
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Checking temperature daily can help predict the exact timing of farrowing.
Housing and Environment Preparation
A gilt requires a clean, safe, and comfortable environment before farrowing.
1. Farrowing Pen Setup
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The pen should be dry, well-ventilated, and warm.
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Provide adequate space for the gilt to move comfortably.
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Use non-slip flooring to prevent injuries.
2. Bedding Material
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Use straw, wood shavings, or soft rubber mats.
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Avoid materials that can cause infections or irritate the skin.
3. Temperature Control
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The optimal temperature for a farrowing gilt is 65-75°F (18-24°C).
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For piglets, heat lamps or heating pads are necessary to maintain warmth.
4. Hygiene and Biosecurity
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Disinfect the farrowing pen before introducing the gilt.
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Remove any sharp objects or hazards that could cause injury.
Behavioral Changes Before Farrowing
1. Increased Restlessness
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The gilt frequently shifts positions and appears anxious.
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She may paw at the bedding or push objects around.
2. Lying Down More Often
- As labor approaches, she may lie down frequently due to discomfort.
3. Sensitivity to Touch
- Some gilts become more irritable and prefer to be left alone.
What to Expect During Farrowing
Farrowing typically lasts between 2 to 6 hours, depending on the litter size.
1. Stages of Farrowing
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Stage 1: Restlessness and increased breathing rate.
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Stage 2: Delivery of piglets, usually at 15-30 minute intervals.
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Stage 3: Expulsion of the placenta, which happens within 4 hours after the last piglet is born.
2. Assisting a Gilt During Farrowing
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Monitor closely but avoid disturbing her.
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If a piglet is stuck for more than 30 minutes, assistance may be needed.
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Ensure each piglet finds a teat to nurse after birth.
Post-Farrowing Care
1. Checking Piglets
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Ensure all piglets are breathing and nursing within the first hour.
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Weak piglets may need additional help to latch onto a teat.
2. Feeding and Hydration
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The gilt should have continuous access to water after farrowing.
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Offer high-energy feed to support milk production.
3. Monitoring for Health Issues
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Watch for signs of mastitis, fever, or loss of appetite.
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Check piglets daily for injuries or weak growth.
Common Problems and Solutions Before Farrowing
Problem | Cause | Solution |
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Constipation | Low fiber intake | Increase fiber in the diet |
Restlessness | Uncomfortable environment | Provide soft bedding and a quiet space |
Low appetite | Stress or illness | Ensure fresh food and water are available |
Delayed farrowing | Hormonal issues | Consult a veterinarian if labor is prolonged |
Proper care of a young female porcine before farrowing ensures a healthy and successful delivery. By providing adequate nutrition, a clean environment, and close monitoring, farmers can help gilts transition smoothly into motherhood.
Understanding the signs of farrowing and being prepared for potential challenges will lead to healthier piglets and a stress-free farrowing process.