Alexander Grahofer is a senior scientist at the Clinic for Swine, Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, where he teaches swine medicine and reproduction. He studied veterinary medicine at the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Austria and received his DVM from the University of Bern, Switzerland.
He is a Diplomate of the European College of Porcine Health Management (ECPHM) and the European College of Animal Reproduction (ECAR). His current research focuses on porcine reproduction, in particular parturition and the peripartal period of sows in a free farrowing system. He is also developing innovative and new learning tools for veterinary medicine.
Short Abstract
Sow behaviour and managment of parturition in free farrowing systems
The pig industry is increasingly transitioning from traditional farrowing crates to free farrowing systems, driven by growing concerns about animal welfare and regulatory requirements to enhance sow well-being. These systems provide sows with greater freedom of movement and opportunities to express natural behaviours, particularly reproductive instincts influenced by hormonal changes before farrowing. Research has shown that increased sow mobility reduces stress and positively impacts farrowing duration, as well as the health and welfare of both sows and piglets. A key advantage of free farrowing systems is the opportunity for sows to engage in nest-building behaviour, a natural activity that benefits the farrowing process, colostrum production, and uterine involution. Factors such as pen design, enrichment materials, and thermal conditions significantly influence the quality of nest-building behaviour. Sows in free farrowing systems also exhibit higher oxytocin levels during parturition, leading to shorter farrowing durations compared to crated sows. This reduction in piglet expulsion time lowers the risk of stillbirths and postparturient complications, improving overall reproductive performance. Despite these benefits, free farrowing systems pose challenges, particularly higher piglet mortality due to crushing, which remains a critical concern. Therefore, effective management strategies are essential to balance welfare improvements with productivity goals. In summary, free farrowing systems offer a promising advancement for sow welfare, provided that careful attention is given to their design and management to ensure their success.
