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17 pages, 274 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

The Economic Implications of Phasing Out Pig Tail Docking: A Pilot Study in Italy

by Francesca Menegon, Annalisa Scollo, Samuele Trestini, Rachele Urbani, Giuseppe Ru and Guido Di Martino

Animals 2025, 15(9), 1250; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15091250 - 29 Apr 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 479

Abstract

The European Commission’s ban on routine tail docking has prompted this retrospective observational study to evaluate the short-term effects of transitioning to a fully undocked system. Twenty-two farms were assessed during three subsequent phases: total tail docking (step 1), subgroups of undocked pigs [...] Read more.

The European Commission’s ban on routine tail docking has prompted this retrospective observational study to evaluate the short-term effects of transitioning to a fully undocked system. Twenty-two farms were assessed during three subsequent phases: total tail docking (step 1), subgroups of undocked pigs (step 2), and fully undocked pigs (step 3). Farmers received training in long-tail management and independently implemented it on their own farms. However, straw provision as environmental enrichment was mandatory, at least supplied during periods of pigs’ restlessness. Overall, going through step 2 appears to be successful. However, transitioning to step 3 worsened mortality (p = 0.010) and the feed conversion ratio (p = 0.015) in weaners. Compared to step 1, the cost of producing 1 kg of meat in step 3 was 33.9% greater during weaning and 7.4% during fattening. Tail lesion prevalence at slaughter was greater in step 3 (41%), followed by step 2 (10%) and step 1 (1%). The hypothetical labour required to optimize straw management compared to the adopted system, ensuring its continuous availability, was estimated as 35 min/100 piglets/weaning cycle (EUR 4.37) and 10.5 h/100 pigs/fattening cycle (EUR 109). Under the conditions of this study, transitioning to a fully undocked system was not successful. Mandating only the non-continuous use of straw has proven insufficient, and greater efforts must be systematically implemented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Health and Welfare Assessment of Pigs)

22 pages, 1493 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Understanding the Impact of Social Stress on Serum Metabolome and Saliva Biomarkers in Growing–Finishing Pigs

by Marc Bagaria, Núria Tous, David Torrallardona, Jose Joaquín Cerón, Estefanía Pérez-Calvo, Wen Ren, Rosa Argamasilla and Emma Fàbrega

Animals 2025, 15(9), 1228; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15091228 - 27 Apr 2025

Viewed by 772

Abstract

High levels of social stress are known to negatively impact pig welfare. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of social stress in growing–finishing pigs by measuring serum metabolome changes and saliva biomarkers. Seventy-two undocked pigs (thirty-six males and thirty-six [...] Read more.

High levels of social stress are known to negatively impact pig welfare. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of social stress in growing–finishing pigs by measuring serum metabolome changes and saliva biomarkers. Seventy-two undocked pigs (thirty-six males and thirty-six females) were housed in single-sex pens of four, with the second dominant pig in each pen selected as the focal pig. A social challenge was conducted by mixing the focal pig with three new pigs in its home pen on two consecutive days on trial days 62–64. Saliva and blood samples were collected, and the pigs’ behaviour and body lesions were evaluated pre- and post-challenge. A total of 630 serum metabolites were analysed, 292 of which could be statistically compared using Biocrates WebIDQ v5 software. Salivary haptoglobin concentrations and the number of body lesions significantly increased after the challenge (p < 0.001), whereas the average daily weight gain decreased (p < 0.05). The serum showed decreases in essential amino acids (Thr, Met, and Phe), non-essential amino acids (Glu, Asn, Asp, Pro, and Tyr), betaine, ornithine, indoxyl sulphate, taurine, and some blood di- and triacylglycerols (q < 0.05), and increases in oleic, eicosanoic, eicosadienoic, and dihomo-gamma-linolenic acids; EPA; and DHA post-challenge (q < 0.05). Overall, the results suggest the potential of metabolomics as a tool providing a more holistic view of the impact of social stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Saliva and Blood Markers in Animal Welfare and Health Monitoring)

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12 pages, 278 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Undocked Tails, Mycoplasma-like Lesions and Gastric Ulcers in Slaughtering Pigs: What Connection?

by Annalisa Scollo, Mustansar Abbas, Barbara Contiero and Flaviana Gottardo

Animals 2023, 13(2), 305; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13020305 - 15 Jan 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2528

Abstract

Tail biting is an economical and behavioral problem in the pork production system worldwide and systematic tail docking has been applied for decades to decrease the risk of its onset. However, legal and market-driven requirements are leading pig producers to rear undocked animals. [...] Read more.

Tail biting is an economical and behavioral problem in the pork production system worldwide and systematic tail docking has been applied for decades to decrease the risk of its onset. However, legal and market-driven requirements are leading pig producers to rear undocked animals. The aim of this work was to monitor tail, pluck (lungs, pleurae, and liver), stomach, carcass, and thigh lesions in slaughtering pigs belonging to either docked or undocked batches. A total of 525 batches were evaluated at slaughter: 442 docked and 83 undocked batches. The presence of tail lesions was only recorded in undocked batches (44.0 ± 0.402 vs. 0.2 ± 0.2% compared to docked ones, p < 0.001), with a prevalence of severe chronic lesions of 27.3% ± 0.032, suggesting that more and alternative wide efforts to manage long-tailed animals are needed. On the contrary, docked animals showed more frequent ear lesions (9.6% ± 0.037 vs. 4.6% ± 0.019; p = 0.0001). Severe lung lesions were found more frequently in undocked animals (9.2% ± 0.043 vs. 6.6% ± 0.011, p = 0.006), as well as gastric ulcers (26.1% ± 0.021 vs. 20.3% ± 0.37, p = 0.006). These lesions might share the same predisposing factors of tail lesions; the latter might be investigated as an iceberg indicator for other pathological conditions in undocked pigs and eventual causal association among lesions in these organs should be explored. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pigs' Health Driven by Welfare and Behaviour)

14 pages, 1349 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Relationship between Carcass Condemnations and Tail Lesion in Swine Considering Different Production Systems and Tail Lengths

by Alice Gomes, Claudia Romeo, Sergio Ghidini and Madalena Vieira-Pinto

Animals 2022, 12(8), 949; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12080949 - 7 Apr 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3615

Abstract

Tail biting has been recognised as an intractable problem in pig production. This study aims to evaluate tail lesion occurrence in slaughtered pigs and explore the relationship between carcass condemnations and tail lesion considering different production systems and tail lengths and to evaluate [...] Read more.

Tail biting has been recognised as an intractable problem in pig production. This study aims to evaluate tail lesion occurrence in slaughtered pigs and explore the relationship between carcass condemnations and tail lesion considering different production systems and tail lengths and to evaluate the importance of creating a detailed tail score classification that includes scarred lesions. Data on a total of 9189 pigs from 73 batches with different tail lengths (undocked; docked mid-length; fully docked) and from distinct production systems (conventional; conventional antibiotic-free and organic) were collected at a Spanish abattoir. Batches with higher tail lesion scores presented a significantly higher chance of total condemnation and total condemnation due to pyaemia, being even more associated with scarring score. The within-batches probability for local condemnations and local condemnation due to abscesses increased significantly with higher scarring scores. Regarding tail length, docked at mid-length and undocked carcasses presented significantly higher odds to be condemned due to abscess. Organic farms showed a higher probability of total condemnations. This research highlights the importance of tail lesions on carcass condemnations that may also be influenced by docking and type of production. Results suggest that scarring score should be included in the tail surveillance program. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Welfare)

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20 pages, 2495 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Behavior and Welfare of Undocked Heavy Pigs Raised in Buildings with Different Ventilation Systems

by Marika Vitali, Enrica Santolini, Marco Bovo, Patrizia Tassinari, Daniele Torreggiani and Paolo Trevisi

Animals 2021, 11(8), 2338; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11082338 - 8 Aug 2021

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 4694

Abstract

The present study aimed to evaluate animal welfare of pigs from the same farm, raised with two ventilation systems. The study involved 60 pens of fattening pigs, raised in two buildings: one naturally ventilated (NV) and the other mechanically ventilated (MV). Pigs were [...] Read more.

The present study aimed to evaluate animal welfare of pigs from the same farm, raised with two ventilation systems. The study involved 60 pens of fattening pigs, raised in two buildings: one naturally ventilated (NV) and the other mechanically ventilated (MV). Pigs were assessed on three observation days: at 40 kg (T1), 100 kg (T2), and 160 kg (T3) of live weight. Animal-based measures were used such as qualitative behavioral analysis (QBA), behavioral measures (BMs), and lesion and health measures (LHMs). Housing conditions (HCs) measured at each observation day were the number of pigs per pen, space allowance, temperature, light, and CO₂. The association study was performed using a general linear model and analysis of variance. Ventilation effect was analyzed by performing computational fluid dynamics. Results showed that overall pigs raised in the MV were in a more positive affective state. Despite that, with hot temperatures, the higher occurrence of pig soiling indicated heat stress in pigs and consequent welfare impairment. The higher frequency of pigs showing dog sitting behavior at T2 and T3 suggest welfare worsening in the last phases of fattening. The study concludes that ventilation system influences animal behavior and overall animal welfare, especially during the warmer season. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Welfare)

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16 pages, 1297 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Effects of Different Housing Systems during Suckling and Rearing Period on Skin and Tail Lesions, Tail Losses and Performance of Growing and Finishing Pigs

by Anita Lange, Michael Hahne, Christian Lambertz, Matthias Gauly, Michael Wendt, Heiko Janssen and Imke Traulsen

Animals 2021, 11(8), 2184; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11082184 - 23 Jul 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4737

Abstract

Feasible alternatives to stressful weaning and tail-docking are needed to inhibit tail biting. Therefore, we investigated the effects of housing systems for 1106 pigs that were weaned from: (1) conventional farrowing crates (FC), (2) free-farrowing pens (FF), or (3) group housing of lactating [...] Read more.

Feasible alternatives to stressful weaning and tail-docking are needed to inhibit tail biting. Therefore, we investigated the effects of housing systems for 1106 pigs that were weaned from: (1) conventional farrowing crates (FC), (2) free-farrowing pens (FF), or (3) group housing of lactating sows (GH) into (1) conventional rearing pens (Conv) or (2) piglets remained in their farrowing pens for rearing (Reaf). Tails were docked or left undocked batchwise. All pigs were regrouped for the fattening period. Pigs were scored for skin lesions, tail lesions and losses. After weaning, Conv-GH pigs had significantly less skin lesions than Conv-FC and Conv-FF pigs. After regrouping for fattening, Reaf-GH pigs had significantly less skin lesions than Conv pigs, Reaf-FC and Reaf-FF. The frequency of tail lesions of undocked Conv pigs peaked in week 4 (66.8%). Two weeks later, Reaf undocked pigs reached their maximum (36.2%). At the end of fattening, 99.3% of undocked Conv pigs and 43.1% of undocked Reaf pigs lost parts of their tail. In conclusion, the co-mingling of piglets during suckling reduced the incidence of skin lesions. Rearing in the farrowing pen significantly reduced the incidence of tail lesions and losses for undocked pigs. No housing system negatively affected the performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Behaviour of Pigs in Relation to Housing Environment)

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14 pages, 3642 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Straw Provision in Racks on Tail Lesions, Straw Availability, and Pen Hygiene in Finishing Pigs

by Torun Wallgren and Stefan Gunnarsson

Animals 2021, 11(2), 379; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11020379 - 2 Feb 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3968

Abstract

Unfulfilled exploratory behavior in pigs has been linked to tail biting, which causes reduced performance and welfare. Provision of straw can reduce tail biting, but large straw rations can cause poor hygiene in pens. This study examined whether provision of straw in racks, [...] Read more.

Unfulfilled exploratory behavior in pigs has been linked to tail biting, which causes reduced performance and welfare. Provision of straw can reduce tail biting, but large straw rations can cause poor hygiene in pens. This study examined whether provision of straw in racks, rather than on the pen floor, can enable larger straw rations without compromising hygiene. The study was conducted on a commercial farm with 458 undocked pigs in 42 pens provided with straw in racks or on the floor. Available straw and manual cleaning requirement were assessed daily, and presence of tail lesions was assessed weekly. Both treatments had a low requirement for manual cleaning (Floor: 1.7%, Rack: 1.8%). Pigs in the rack treatment had a higher incidence of lesions early in the production period, which coincided with these pigs initially not consuming straw from the rack, leading to low straw access. Late in the production period, these pigs had learned how to use the rack and had a lower incidence of lesions than pigs in the floor treatment. Delayed use of the rack may have been linked to undeveloped spatial skills in the pigs, which needs further research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Environment on Behaviour, Productivity and Welfare of Farm Animals)

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11 pages, 1615 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tail Lesions and Losses of Docked and Undocked Pigs in Different Farrowing and Rearing Systems

by Maria Gentz, Anita Lange, Sebastian Zeidler, Christian Lambertz, Matthias Gauly, Onno Burfeind and Imke Traulsen

Agriculture 2020, 10(4), 130; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture10040130 - 16 Apr 2020

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4323

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the effects of farrowing and rearing systems on tail lesions and losses of docked and undocked pigs. Pigs from three farrowing systems: Conventional farrowing crate (FC), free farrowing (FF) and group housing of lactating sows (GH) were randomly [...] Read more.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of farrowing and rearing systems on tail lesions and losses of docked and undocked pigs. Pigs from three farrowing systems: Conventional farrowing crate (FC), free farrowing (FF) and group housing of lactating sows (GH) were randomly allocated to different rearing systems: A conventional system (CONV), where the pigs were regrouped and transferred to conventional finishing pens at ten weeks of age or a wean-to-finish (W-F) system, where the pigs remained in their pens until slaughter with higher space allowance during rearing. Weekly, tail lesions and losses were assessed individually. The incidence of tail lesions was higher in undocked CONV pigs compared to undocked W-F pigs (maximum: CONV 58.01%, W-F 41.16%). The rearing system had a significant effect on tail losses at the end of finishing (CONV 67.63%, W-F 38.2%). The significant effect of the rearing system might be explained by higher space allowance during rearing and reduced regrouping stress for W-F pigs. In conclusion, farrowing systems showed no effects, but the W-F rearing system reduces the frequency of tail lesions and losses; the curves of tail lesions increased slower and stayed on a lower level, which resulted in lower losses as well. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Perspectives in Pig Farming: Breeding, Husbandry and Management)

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9 pages, 243 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antimicrobial use on Italian Pig Farms and its Relationship with Husbandry Practices

by Jacopo Tarakdjian, Katia Capello, Dario Pasqualin, Andrea Santini, Giovanni Cunial, Annalisa Scollo, Alessandro Mannelli, Paola Tomao, Nicoletta Vonesch and Guido Di Martino

Animals 2020, 10(3), 417; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10030417 - 2 Mar 2020

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 3894

Abstract

The analysis of antimicrobial use (AMU) data in livestock allows for the identification of risk factors for AMU, thereby favoring the application of responsible AMU policies on-farm. Herewith, AMU in 36 finishing pig farms in northern Italy from 2015–2017 was expressed as defined [...] Read more.

The analysis of antimicrobial use (AMU) data in livestock allows for the identification of risk factors for AMU, thereby favoring the application of responsible AMU policies on-farm. Herewith, AMU in 36 finishing pig farms in northern Italy from 2015–2017 was expressed as defined daily doses for Italian pigs (DDDita) per population correction unit (DDDita/100kg). A retrospective analysis was then conducted to determine the effects of several husbandry practices on AMU. Overall, AMU ranged between 12 DDDita/100kg in 2015 and 8 DDDita/100kg in 2017, showing no significant trends, due to the large variability in AMU between farms. However, a 66% AMU reduction was observed in 19 farms during 2015-2017. Farm size, number of farm workers, air quality, average pig mortality, and presence of undocked pigs on the farm had no significant effects on AMU. Rather, welfare-friendly farms had 38% lower AMU levels (p < 0.05). In conclusion, animal welfare management seems to be relatively more important than farm structure and other managerial characteristics as drivers of AMU in finishing pig farms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Physiology)

13 pages, 1565 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Classification of Pigs with Tail Lesions from Different Farrowing and Rearing Systems during Rearing and Fattening Period

by Maria Gentz, Anita Lange, Sebastian Zeidler and Imke Traulsen

Animals 2019, 9(11), 949; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9110949 - 11 Nov 2019

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3052

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to classify and characterise pigs with tail lesions using a combined parameter based on the frequency and duration of tail lesions and to find out whether biologically relevant groups could be separated by cluster analysis. Pigs [...] Read more.

The aim of the present study was to classify and characterise pigs with tail lesions using a combined parameter based on the frequency and duration of tail lesions and to find out whether biologically relevant groups could be separated by cluster analysis. Pigs (n = 677, 50% docked, 50% undocked) from three farrowing systems, as follows: (1) Conventional farrowing crate (FC), (2) free farrowing (FF), and (3) a group housing lactating sows (GH), were divided into two rearing systems as follows: (1) A conventional system (CONV) and (2) a wean-to-finish (W-F) system. Within 18 assessment weeks, starting after weaning, animal tail lesions were recorded individually. The animals were characterised into five lesion groups, as follows: (I) No lesions to (V) many long lasting lesions. The separability of the predefined lesion groups was checked by an animal individual lesion parameter. By using a k-means cluster analysis, it was shown that the docking status was the mainly affected parameter on the tail lesions. The separation of the groups only succeeded for the most distinct groups, I and V. The high impact of the docking status and the reduction of tail lesions by more space allowance was shown. More characterising information for the individual pigs would improve the separability of the lesion groups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tail Biting in Pigs―Aetiology, Risk Factors and Solutions)

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15 pages, 454 KiB

Open AccessReview

Rearing Pigs with Intact Tails—Experiences and Practical Solutions in Sweden

by Torun Wallgren, Nils Lundeheim, Anna Wallenbeck, Rebecka Westin and Stefan Gunnarsson

Animals 2019, 9(10), 812; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9100812 - 15 Oct 2019

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 11365

Abstract

Tail biting is a common issue within commercial pig production. It is mainly an indicator of inadequate housing environment and results in reduced health welfare and production. To reduce the impact of tail biting, pigs are commonly tail docked, without pain relief, within [...] Read more.

Tail biting is a common issue within commercial pig production. It is mainly an indicator of inadequate housing environment and results in reduced health welfare and production. To reduce the impact of tail biting, pigs are commonly tail docked, without pain relief, within the first week of life. EU Council Directive 2008/120/EC prohibits routine tail docking, but the practice is still widely used in many Member States. Sweden has banned tail docking since 1988 and all pigs have intact tails, yet tail biting is a minor problem. This paper summarises and synthesises experimental findings and practical expertise in production of undocked pigs in Sweden and describes solutions to facilitate a transition to producing pigs with intact tails within intensive pig production in the EU. Swedish pig housing conditions and management differ in many aspects from those in other EU Member States. Swedish experiences show that lower stocking density, provision of sufficient feeding space, no fully slatted flooring, strict maximum levels for noxious gases and regular provision of litter material are crucial for success when rearing pigs with intact tails. To prevent tail biting and to eliminate the need for tail docking, we strongly recommend that EU legislation should more clearly match the biological needs of pigs, as is done in Swedish legislation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tail Biting in Pigs―Aetiology, Risk Factors and Solutions)

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16 pages, 1972 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Step Tail Biting Outbreak Intervention Protocols for Pigs Housed on Slatted Floors

by Jen-Yun Chou, Keelin O’Driscoll, Rick B. D’Eath, Dale A. Sandercock and Irene Camerlink

Animals 2019, 9(8), 582; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9080582 - 20 Aug 2019

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 7280

Abstract

Solutions are needed to keep pigs under commercial conditions without tail biting outbreaks (TBOs). However, as TBOs are inevitable, even in well managed farms, it is crucial to know how to manage TBOs when they occur. We evaluated the effectiveness of multi-step intervention [...] Read more.

Solutions are needed to keep pigs under commercial conditions without tail biting outbreaks (TBOs). However, as TBOs are inevitable, even in well managed farms, it is crucial to know how to manage TBOs when they occur. We evaluated the effectiveness of multi-step intervention protocols to control TBOs. Across 96 pens (1248 undocked pigs) managed on fully-slatted floors, 40 TBOs were recorded (≥3 out of 12–14 pigs with fresh tail wounds). When an outbreak was identified, either the biters or the victims were removed, or enrichment (three ropes) was added. If the intervention failed, another intervention was randomly used until all three interventions had been deployed once. Fifty percent of TBOs were controlled after one intervention, 30% after 2–3 interventions, and 20% remained uncontrolled. A high proportion of biters/victims per pen reduced intervention success more so than the type of intervention. When only one intervention was used, adding ropes was the fastest method to overcome TBOs. Removed biters and victims were successfully reintroduced within 14 days back to their home pens. In conclusion, 80% of TBOs were successfully controlled within 18.4 ± 1.7 days on average using one or multiple cost-effective intervention strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tail Biting in Pigs―Aetiology, Risk Factors and Solutions)

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15 pages, 1116 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Straw, Rope, and Bite-Rite Treatment in Weaner Pens with a Tail Biting Outbreak

by Helle Pelant Lahrmann, Julie Fabricius Faustrup, Christian Fink Hansen, Rick B. D’Eath, Jens Peter Nielsen and Björn Forkman

Animals 2019, 9(6), 365; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9060365 - 17 Jun 2019

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4613

Abstract

Tail biting in pigs is an injurious behaviour that spreads rapidly in a group. We investigated three different treatments to stop ongoing tail biting outbreaks in 65 pens of 6–30 kg undocked pigs (30 pigs per pen; SD = 2): (1) straw (7 [...] Read more.

Tail biting in pigs is an injurious behaviour that spreads rapidly in a group. We investigated three different treatments to stop ongoing tail biting outbreaks in 65 pens of 6–30 kg undocked pigs (30 pigs per pen; SD = 2): (1) straw (7 g/pig/day on the floor), (2) rope, and (3) Bite-Rite (a hanging plastic device with chewable rods). Pigs were tail scored three times weekly, until an outbreak occurred (four pigs with a tail wound; day 0) and subsequently once weekly. After an outbreak had occurred, a subsequent escalation in tail damage was defined if four pigs with a fresh tail wound were identified or if a biter had to be removed. Straw prevented an escalation better (75%) than Bite-Rite (35%; p < 0.05), and rope was intermediate (65%). Upon introduction of treatments (day 0), pigs interacted less with tails than before (day −1; p < 0.05). Behavioural observations showed that pigs engaged more with rope than Bite-Rite (p < 0.05). Bite-Rite pigs (but not straw or rope) increased their interaction with tails between day 0 and day 7 (p < 0.05). Straw was the most effective treatment. However, further investigations may identify materials or allocation strategies which are more effective still. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Enrichment of Pigs)

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17 pages, 866 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rearing Undocked Pigs on Fully Slatted Floors Using Multiple Types and Variations of Enrichment

by Jen-Yun Chou, Constance M. V. Drique, Dale A. Sandercock, Rick B. D’Eath and Keelin O’Driscoll

Animals 2019, 9(4), 139; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9040139 - 2 Apr 2019

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 6132

Abstract

In fully slatted systems, tail biting is difficult to manage when pigs’ tails are not docked because loose enrichment material can obstruct slurry systems. This pilot study sought to determine: a) whether intact-tailed pigs can be reared with a manageable level of tail [...] Read more.

In fully slatted systems, tail biting is difficult to manage when pigs’ tails are not docked because loose enrichment material can obstruct slurry systems. This pilot study sought to determine: a) whether intact-tailed pigs can be reared with a manageable level of tail biting by using multiple slat-compatible enrichment; b) whether a variation of enrichment has an effect; and c) whether pigs show a preference in enrichment use. Ninety-six undocked pigs were given the same enrichment items from one week after birth until weaning. At weaning, four different combinations of 8 enrichment items were utilized based on predefined characteristics. These were randomly assigned to 8 pens (n = 12 pigs/pen). Four pens had the same combination (SAME) from assignment and four pens switched combinations every two weeks (SWITCH). Individual lesion scores, interactions with the enrichment, and harmful behaviours were recorded. The average tail score during the experiment was low (0.93 ± 0.02). Only one pig in a SAME pen had a severely bitten tail (partly amputated). The overall level of interaction with enrichment did not decline over time. Pigs interacted with a rack of loose material most frequently (p < 0.001). The study showed promising results for rearing undocked pigs on fully slatted floors using slat-compatible enrichment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Enrichment of Pigs)

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11 pages, 226 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tail Posture as an Indicator of Tail Biting in Undocked Finishing Pigs

by Torun Wallgren, Anne Larsen and Stefan Gunnarsson

Animals 2019, 9(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9010018 - 8 Jan 2019

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 7735

Abstract

Tail posture (i.e., hanging or curled) has been suggested to be an indicator of tail biting, and hanging tails predisposed to damage. The aim of this study was to investigate if tail posture was feasible as a tail damage indicator in a commercial [...] Read more.

Tail posture (i.e., hanging or curled) has been suggested to be an indicator of tail biting, and hanging tails predisposed to damage. The aim of this study was to investigate if tail posture was feasible as a tail damage indicator in a commercial setting. The study was carried out on one batch of 459 undocked finishing pigs (30–120 kg in weight). Weekly scoring of tail posture was combined with the scoring of tail lesions. Tail posture was observed at feeding to facilitate the usage of the method in commercial settings. A curly tail was observed in 94% of the observations. Pigs with tails scored with “wound” were 4.15 (p < 0.0001) times more likely to have hanging tails, and pigs scored with “inflamed wounds” were 14.24 (p < 0.0001) times more likely to have hanging tails, compared to pigs with nondamaged tails. Tail posture correctly classified tails with “wound” or “inflamed wound” 67.5% of the time, with 55.2% sensitivity and 79.7% specificity, respectively. The method of observing the tail position at feeding seems useful as a complement to normal inspection for detecting tail biting before tail wounds are visible to the caretaker. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Enrichment of Pigs)

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