Managing 7 preweaning mortality: Is this possible with total born levels increasing?

摘要

Since the early 1990's, the application of genetic selection and improved management technologies has led to an increase in total born levels reaching over 13 piglets and in select high performing herds, over 14 piglets per litter (Figure 1). This improvement has translated into herds achieving 28 to 29 good piglets weaned per mated female per year (PW/MF/Y) (Table 1). It is possible for producers to consistently achieve 30 PW/MF/Y since some are now reaching this goal for short periods of time. It is indisputable that this new benchmark is within grasp of North America's top producing herds. However, a number of aspects and a bit of history for each situation should be considered to reach the objective of attaining the level of 7% preweaning mortality (Figure 2). A low preweaning mortality reflects efforts of the entire program that each farm develops.