To ensure the health and survival of newborn piglets, several key management practices must be implemented from the moment they are born. First, it is crucial that piglets have access to colostrum as soon as possible after birth—ideally within the first three hours. Colostrum is rich in proteins, fats, vitamins, and especially antibodies, which are essential for the piglet’s immune system. Since newborn pigs lack natural immunity, consuming colostrum is vital for their survival. Additionally, colostrum contains higher levels of magnesium, which helps stimulate the passage of meconium, and its acidic nature supports the development of a healthy digestive tract.
Next, it's important to help piglets establish a strong nursing habit by fixing them to specific teats as early as possible. Sows release milk for only about 10 to 20 seconds per teat, so if piglets don’t latch on quickly, competition may arise, leading to uneven growth and even death among weaker piglets. Within two days of birth, each piglet should be assigned to a particular teat—smaller or weaker ones should be placed on the front teats, while stronger ones can take the rear ones. Before feeding, massaging the sow’s udder can encourage milk flow, and the caretaker should ensure the piglets are positioned correctly to nurse effectively.
Maintaining an optimal temperature is also critical. Newborn piglets require a warm environment, ideally around 32°C during the first few days, gradually decreasing to about 22°C by the time they are two months old. A cold environment can lead to hypothermia, poor vitality, and increased susceptibility to diseases like diarrhea. To prevent this, farrowing areas should not be on concrete floors. Instead, straw bedding or mats should be used, and in colder seasons, heat sources such as stoves, infrared lamps, or heat boxes should be provided.
Another important aspect is iron supplementation. Piglets are born with limited iron stores, and their daily requirement is about 7–8 mg, which is much higher than what they receive from milk alone (about 1 mg per day). Without additional iron, they can develop anemia, become weak, and even die. A common practice is to mix 2.5 grams of ferrous sulfate and 1 gram of copper sulfate in 1 liter of water and administer it twice daily on the teat until the piglets are 20 days old.
Early weaning and solid food introduction should begin around day 7. Providing small amounts of grains like corn, soybeans, or wheat, either freely or mixed into a thin paste with sugar water, can help piglets transition smoothly. Repeated exposure encourages them to start eating independently.
Water should also be introduced early. Piglets need about 1/5 of their body weight in water daily, especially before 35 days of age. If they don’t have access to clean water, they may drink contaminated water or urine, increasing disease risk. By day 5, a clean water source should be available in the pen.
Finally, maintaining hygiene is essential. The pens should be cleaned daily to keep them dry and free from disease-causing agents. Piglets should be kept in a quiet, well-ventilated area, and any signs of illness, such as diarrhea, should be addressed immediately. Vaccinations should be carried out according to a proper schedule starting at 30 days of age to prevent infectious diseases.
By following these comprehensive care practices, farmers can significantly improve piglet survival rates and overall health.
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