Pig farrowing crate is a type of equipment used in pig farming, designed to house sows and their piglets during the farrowing (birthing) and lactation period. This equipment aims to create a safe and controlled environment for both the sow and her piglets, minimizing risks and enhancing animal welfare.
How to set up a farrowing crate?
Preparations for farrowing
Move all required equipment into the farrowing room.
Check creep lamps and heat mats are working.
Move the sow into the crate and adjust the size for each individual animal.
Place the sow ID cards (displaying the history of each sow) above/near the relevant farrowing crate.
Pig Farrowing Crate Components
Crate Structure: The main framework that restricts the sow's movement to prevent her from crushing the piglets.
Flooring: Often made of slatted plastic or metal to allow waste to fall through and keep the area cleaner.
Side Rails: Designed to prevent the sow from lying down too quickly and crushing piglets.
Piglet Area: Adjacent to the sow's area, it includes heating pads or lamps to keep piglets warm.
Feed and Water Systems: Automatic or manual systems to provide the sow and piglets with adequate nutrition and hydration.
Waste Management: Systems to manage and dispose of waste effectively, maintaining hygiene.
Pig Farrowing Crate Features and Benefits
Safety: The crate ensures that piglets have a safe area away from the risk of being crushed by the sow.
Health Monitoring: Facilitates easy access for farmers to monitor the health and development of both the sow and piglets.
Controlled Environment: Helps in maintaining an optimal temperature and hygiene level, crucial for the health of newborn piglets.
Ease of Access: Allows farmers to assist with farrowing if needed and perform necessary care tasks such as feeding and cleaning.
Farrowing crates play a crucial role in modern pig farming by balancing the needs for safety and productivity. However, ongoing innovations and welfare considerations are essential to enhance the well-being of both sows and piglets. Farmers must stay informed about the best practices and regulatory standards to ensure a humane and efficient farming operation.
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Adjustable Pig Farrowing Crate
