Treatment of diseases in breeding sows
Sows are the backbone of any successful pig farm, but they are still susceptible to a number of diseases that require specific treatments. Diagnosis and treatment of sick pigs (sick pigs) during this period have a direct impact on farm profits and production performance.
Management of reproductive disorders
Reproductive problems can significantly reduce farm productivity. Brucellosis, a bacterial infection that causes abortion and infertility in sows, is characterized by inflammation of the testicles in boars, lameness and anal paralysis. Treatment options remain limited, as infected carcasses usually have to be destroyed, although heat treatment may be permitted in some areas for economic reasons.
Identifying the root cause of reproductive problems requires systematic analysis. Initially, it is necessary to establish whether the problem, such as anoestrus, is due to true ovarian inactivity or to a failure to detect estrus, as primiparous and early weaned sows are particularly susceptible. Next, ultrasound examination helps to rule out ovarian cysts that disrupt the normal physiological cycle.
For sows experiencing seasonal anestrus, heat stress operates through two mechanisms – reduced feed intake during lactation creating a negative energy imbalance, accompanied by increased cortisol secretion from stress. Both pathways reduce the secretion of hormones necessary for follicle development. Furthermore, reduced photoperiods exacerbate these effects, often causing the majority of seasonal anestrus cases in late summer.
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Treatment of mastitis and udder problems
Mastitis, metritis and milk abort syndrome (MMA) is a complex condition that seriously affects piglet survival. When examining farrowing sows, always check the udders for early changes. The affected mammary glands will feel hard and hot on examination.
Treatment includes:
Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs.
Injections to stimulate milk production.
Small doses of oxytocin as needed.
Timely intervention is important – treatment should be started as soon as the disease is detected or when the sow’s temperature exceeds 39.4°C, 12-18 hours after farrowing. During treatment, encourage the sow to drink water by encouraging her to stand frequently.
Excessive production of colostrum around farrowing is a common cause of agalactia. In these cases, manual milking (possibly combined with oxytocin) helps relieve stress. Furthermore, prevention through proper nutrition is very effective – reducing feed to 1kg/day for 48 hours before farrowing, then using soaked mash to provide mass without adding excess nutrients.
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Solving lameness
Lameness is the second most common reason for culling sows. Effective detection requires regular assessment, preferably using a three-point scale:no lameness (0), mild lameness (1), marked lameness (2). However, timing of diagnosis is important – avoid evaluation immediately after weaning when the sow’s condition is lighter.
To treat, separate lame sows into recovery pens with firm, padded floors to avoid competition for feed. Provide anti-inflammatory medications along with broad-spectrum antibiotics. Following treatment, lesions may benefit from antibiotic sprays or wound dressings.
Prevention strategies focus on hoof health, as the majority of cases of lameness originate from hoof injuries. Supplementing the sow’s diet with chelated trace minerals (zinc, copper, manganese) significantly reduces both the frequency of hoof injuries and the incidence of lameness within 5-6 months. In addition, a regular hoof trimming program also contributes greatly to prevention.
Summary
Throughout all treatment protocols, remember that breeding sows are a major investment. Therefore, the decision between treatment and culling should consider the economic value of retaining sows that have already performed well versus introducing unproven sows into the herd.
