Investigating the effects of two weaning methods and two genetic hybrids on play behavior in weaner pigs (Sus scrofa)

In conventional pig production, suckling pigs are typically weaned between 3 and 5 weeks of age. This involves separation from the sow, dietary change, regrouping in a novel environment, which challenge welfare pigs. We investigated effects two weaning methods [conventional weaning: litters mixed weaner pen different size design (MOVE) vs. litter staying farrowing after removing sow (STAY)] genetic hybrids [DanBred Yorkshire × Landrace (approximately 21 total born/litter; DB) Topigs Norsvin TN70 16 born/litter with higher individual birth weight than DB; TN)] on play behavior across weaning. Both were inseminated semen DanBred Duroc boars. Litters reduced to number functional teats at birth. The durations locomotor-rotational (LOC) social (SOC) 24 indoor-housed [pigs/litter: (average ± SD) 13 2; age day: 26 2 days] video-recorded continuously 14:00 h 22:00 days −1, 1, relative statistically analyzed mixed-effects modeling level. Before weaning, TN performed LOC longer DB On day post-weaning, STAY engaged more SOC MOVE Moreover, displayed steeper increase 1 pigs, respectively. demonstrated that belonging hybrid spent time playing before Additionally, and, hence, avoiding mixing relocation an unfamiliar environment had positive effect Our study illustrates stress may be by using featuring keeping intact familiar also supports use as animal indicator.