Management of large litters in piglet production

In recent years, the number of live-born piglets per litter has increased tremendously. Litters of 15 or even up to 20 piglets are no longer uncommon. Due to this increased fertility, the demands placed on the sows rise as they are expected to rear a large number of healthy and vital piglets until weaning. On the other hand, there is also a higher demand for good management of the sows and litters during the lactation period. To reduce piglet losses, to achieve a high growth performance of piglets in large litters and to maintain the lactating sows in good health and body condition, sows and piglets need to be supported by different management activities during the entire lactation period, which are presented in this article.