Causes of high fatality among new born piglets

Newborn piglets are vulnerable to various health issues, which can lead to high mortality rates. Here are some common causes of high fatality among newborn piglets:

  1. Mortality in the first 24 hours: This is the highest mortality period for piglets, with up to 20% of piglets dying within the first 24 hours after birth. Causes include hypothermia, hypoglycemia, and inadequate colostrum intake.
  2. Hypothermia: Newborn piglets are sensitive to temperature fluctuations and can quickly succumb to hypothermia if the environment is too cold. This can be exacerbated by inadequate bedding, poor ventilation, or insufficient heat sources.
  3. Hypoglycemia: Piglets are born with limited glycogen stores and rely on colostrum for energy. If they don't receive adequate colostrum or have impaired glucose metabolism, they may develop hypoglycemia, leading to seizures, coma, or death.
  4. Inadequate colostrum intake: Failure to receive adequate colostrum can lead to immunodeficiency, increased susceptibility to disease, and higher mortality rates.
  5. Dysmaturity: Piglets that are born too small or too large may be more prone to mortality due to respiratory distress, hypoglycemia, or other complications.
  6. Mastitis: Infected udders can produce toxic milk, which can be fatal to piglets if they ingest it.
  7. Parasites: Internal parasites, such as coccidia, can cause diarrhea, dehydration, and weight loss, leading to increased mortality rates.
  8. Bacterial infections: Neonatal piglets are susceptible to bacterial infections, such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Streptococcus, which can cause septicemia, pneumonia, or meningitis.
  9. Viral infections: Viruses like Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) and Porcine Circovirus (PCV) can cause respiratory distress, pneumonia, and other complications, leading to increased mortality rates.
  10. Poor nutrition: Inadequate nutrition, including insufficient milk or poor-quality feed, can lead to stunted growth, increased mortality rates, and reduced fertility.
  11. Environmental stress: Poor living conditions, such as inadequate ventilation, high temperatures, or humidity, can lead to stress, which can weaken piglets and increase mortality rates.
  12. Genetic factors: Some breeds or lines of pigs may be more prone to mortality due to genetic factors, such as reduced fertility or increased susceptibility to disease.
  13. Maternal factors: Poor maternal health, inadequate milk production, or inadequate care can all contribute to increased mortality rates among piglets.
  14. Lack of proper care: Failure to provide proper care, such as inadequate monitoring, poor sanitation, or inadequate nutrition, can lead to increased mortality rates among piglets.

It's essential to identify and address these factors to reduce mortality rates among newborn piglets and promote a healthy and thriving herd.