A comparison of production parameters and bacterial colonization patterns in pigs raised from birth to nursery phase with two production models

Abstract

Genetic selection for economically important traits has increased growth performance, feed efficiency and litter size, resulting in enhanced sustainability and productivity. An unintended consequence of larger litters has been the increase in preweaning mortality. In this investigation, a production model which allows piglet cross-suckling among multiple sows from one day of age to weaning was evaluated. No difference was observed in preweaning mortality or growth performance from birth to weaning, of piglets raised in the multi-suckle common creep (MSCC) production model, when compared to the conventional (CONV) model. A significant reduction in nursery mortality was observed in the MSCC treatment group (P < .001) compared to conventional production. Growth performance from weaning to the end of the nursery phase was observed (P =0.01) with greater average daily weight gain in MSCC pigs. Detection of Streptococcus suis serotype 1, S. suis species, and Mycoplasma hyorhinis with PCR did not differ statistically between the two production models at weaning. There was no difference in the transmission of the bacterial agent S. suis serotype 1, with substantial detection in both the MSCC and CONV study groups. The results of this study showed a reduction in nursery mortality and improved growth performance of pigs raised with MSCC. Greater understanding of alternative production models and the impact on pathogen transmission and effect on productivity and sustainability are necessary.