Effect of starting time of co-mingling non-littermates during lactation on performance and skin lesions of sows and piglets

The natural weaning process of piglets is a gradual event, whereas in current commercial pig production sudden, stressful phase the pigs’ life. Management strategies such as co-mingling non-littermates before aim to mimic (semi)natural conditions and stimulate social skills order minimize adverse effects stress around weaning. present study investigated which way timing non-littermate during lactation conventional farrowing units had implications for sow affected performance behaviour after In experimental treatments, 3 litters were co-mingled either at day 16 (n = 27 sows their litters), 11 27) or 6 27). control treatment, not grouped total, 1294 weaned 21 days age. At weaning, from within each treatment mixed. Piglets system housed with those they lactation, mixed unfamiliar piglets. Co-mingling did affect body condition lesion scores udder teats lactation. tended gain less weight d-6 – d-1 (P 0.082), but piglet growth was d-16 d-1. After feed ratio be lowest first week 0.086), no other observed post-weaning phase. Skin score shoulders flanks higher 0.051) highest < 0.001). However, 1 differences skin lesions observed. socialized compared conclusion, pre-weaning resulted aggression (i.e. lesions) suggesting better reduction stress, consistent tendency improved Time seemed crucial.