Farrowing

The first voyage of discovery...

The normal length of pregnancy is 114 +/-4 days. Most farms maintain special farrowing facilities. They are separated from other units to maintain high standards of hygiene and avoid the transmission of diseases. About 1 week before the expected farrowing date the herdsman moves pregnant sows to the farrowing facilities so they can adjust to the environment.

... is quite exciting!

The mammary glands begin to enlarge about 3 weeks before parturition. The day before farrowing first milky droplets emerge from the swollen udder. The sow becomes restless. She starts to build a nest if bedding is available.

Within the last hour the sow calms down and settles on her side, directing her rear towards a corner. Vigorous tail switching, grunting and grinding of the teeth precede the expulsion of the first piglet. The majority of piglets appear with their heads first. The average litter size is 10. About every 15 minutes a new baby piglet is being delivered.