Productivity and Behavior of Sows in Level vs. Sloped Farrowing Pens and Crates

Abstract

Forty crossbred sows were used in 10 blocks to determine the effects of farrowing pen type and degree of slope on sow-litter performance and behavior. The two pen types were a farrowing pen (2.15 m2 sow area plus 2.15 x 3 5 m creep area) and a farrowing crate (1.5 x 2.15 m). The two slopes evaluated were level (0% slope) and 8% slope. To collect behavioral data, a sample of litters was videotaped using time-lapse recorders ror 24 h at 10 d of age. An interaction between slope and pen type was detected for number of pigs weaned (P = .02), percentage preweaning mortality (P = .01) and number of pig deaths due to crushing (P = .01). More pigs were crushed and fewer pigs were weaned when pens were level or when crates were sloped. Sows on sloped floors lay on their sternums more often (P = .04) than sows on level floors. Time sows were sitting was correlated with number of pigs crushed (r = .54, P = .05). Providing more room for the sow in a pen did not increase sow activity. The reduced piglet mortality in sloped pens may be attributed to changes in sow resting postures rather than to providing sows more freedom of movement.