Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances

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Reducing Weight Variation and Behaviour Problems in Nursery Pigs on a Commercial Farm by Improving Water Accessibility and Providing Environmental Enrichment

Angel Francisco de Grau , Catherine E. Dewey , Tina .M. Widowski , Robert .M. Friendship , Cornelius FM de Lange and Barry Milligana
Page: 51-57 | Received 21 Sep 2022, Published online: 21 Sep 2022

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Abstract

The objectives of this study were to determine whether provision of additional water via wet/dry feeders, and use of chains as distractors, improves performance and reduces ear biting in nursery pigs. The study was based on a 2 ? 2 factorial design, with provision of additional water in wet/dry feeders and chains as the main factors. A single nipple drinker was provided in each pen of 35 to 40 pigs. In 36 of the 66 pens, wet/dry feeders were not connected to the water line, and in 30 pens, wet/dry feeders provided additional water. Chains were provided in alternate pens. Pigs were individually weighed and assigned an ear score at weaning (approximately 3 wk of age) and at approximately 8 wk of age. Piglets in 48 pens were videotaped for 24 h on days 7, 14, and 21 post-weaning, using black-and-white time-lapse video equipment. The numbers of pigs drinking, feeding, and interacting with the chain were recorded. There was less variation in ADG (P<.001) in groups with additional water. The incidence of ear lesions was lower in pens with a chain (P=.01) and higher in heavier pigs (P<.01), but was not affected by use of wet/dry feeding (P=.53).

How to cite this article:

Angel Francisco de Grau , Catherine E. Dewey , Tina .M. Widowski , Robert .M. Friendship , Cornelius FM de Lange and Barry Milligana . Reducing Weight Variation and Behaviour Problems in Nursery Pigs on a Commercial Farm by Improving Water Accessibility and Providing Environmental Enrichment.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/javaa.2005.51.57
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1680-5593/javaa.2005.51.57