FARROWING STATISTICS AND ADVICE

Gestation: Sows gestate for an average of 115 days from the first day of mating, but gestation may range from 111 to 120 days. Piglets born before 109 days are classed as abortions, according to Local Land Services in Australia. Any piglets born between 109 and 112 days are classed as premature.

Average litter size: According to the Swine Basics Handbook, sows give birth to an average litter size of seven piglets, but litters can range anywhere from seven to 14 piglets, depending on various factors. Due to their fairly short gestation period, piglets can theoretically give birth between two and three times a year. The Canadian Food Focus says that five days after having weaned her piglets, a sow is ready to conceive again.

Average farrowing duration: The National Animal Disease Information Service in the UK says that most pigs will deliver their litters within two and four hours, with the afterbirth being expelled up to four hours later.

Weaning age: Sows nurse piglets until they are weaned at about 21 days of age.

Common signs of labour: Signs of labour include restlessness, nesting behaviour or trying to find a suitable position in the farrowing crate or pen by heaping up bedding or digging a shallow area on the dirt, says the Oklahoma State University. The sow’s respiratory rate also increases, and the sow may begin to breathe through an open mouth.

What to do immediately after the sow gives birth: The Missouri State University says that as soon as a piglet is born, you should disinfect its navel using tincture of iodine.

Age ready for first mating: Gilts and boars are considered ready for first mating at about seven months, according to the Pig

Site. It is recommended that gilts are only mated on their second or third cycle.