Proper management of sows during pregnancy and lactation is essential to ensure healthy piglets, smooth farrowing, and good milk production.

1. Separate Housing of Pregnant Sows

• Pregnant sows should be housed separately from other animals
• This helps prevent fighting, stress, and physical injuries
• It also protects the developing foetus from accidental harm

2. Adequate Nutrition During Pregnancy

• Sows must be provided with a balanced ration containing sufficient nutrients
• Proper feeding supports:
• Healthy fetal growth
• Maintenance of body condition
• Preparation for lactation

3. Provision of Exercise

• Pregnant sows should have access to an open area for regular movement
• Exercise helps:
• Maintain body fitness
• Prevent stiffness of limbs
• Reduce complications during farrowing

4. Preparation and Disinfection of Farrowing Pen

• The farrowing pen should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected at least 20 days before expected farrowing
• Disinfectants such as phenyl or potassium permanganate can be used
• This minimizes the risk of infection to both sow and piglets

5. Bedding Management

• After around 90 days of gestation, provide clean and adequate bedding material
• Bedding ensures:
• Comfort
• Warmth
• Protection of newborn piglets

6. Feeding Around Farrowing

• Feed should be withheld for about 12 hours before and after farrowing
• However, ensure continuous supply of clean drinking water
• This practice helps prevent digestive disturbances and facilitates easy farrowing

7. Temperature and Shelter

• The farrowing pen should be well protected and warm, especially in cold climates
• Maintaining proper temperature is important for:
• Comfort of the sow
• Survival of newborn piglets

8. Control of External Parasites

• Before farrowing, the sow should be washed with soap and water
• This helps eliminate external parasites
• Prevents their transmission to newborn piglets

9. Feeding During Lactation

• After farrowing, feed should be given in small quantities initially
• Gradually increase the amount over time
• Normal feeding levels should be reached within one week after farrowing
• Adequate nutrition is essential for milk production

10. Examination of Teats

• Teats should be checked regularly for:
• Infection (mastitis)
• Blockage
• Insufficient milk production
• Early detection helps prevent feeding problems in piglets

11. Use of Hormones and Supplements

• If milk production is inadequate, oxytocin injection may be administered under veterinary guidance
• Provide vitamin supplements and mineral mixtures to improve health and lactation performance

12. Additional Feeding in Late Pregnancy

• From around 100 days of gestation, sows should receive an extra 0.5 to 0.9 kg feed daily
• This supports:
• Final stage fetal growth
• Preparation for lactation
• Feed quantity should be slightly reduced one week before farrowing