Herd-level factors associated with non-productive days and farrowing rate in commercial pig farms in two consecutive years

Non-productive days (NPD) and farrowing rate (FR) are indicators related to the number of piglets weaned per sow per year. Identifying the factors that affect these two indicators can improve the productivity and profitability of pig production. The objective of this study was to identify and quantify the associations of some factors related to the performance, management, facilities, feeding, health, and biosafety on NPD and FR over two consecutive years, using an inquiry applied to commercial pig farms in Brazil. Data from 150 farms were collected for a total study population of 135 168 sows, including gilt replacement, breeding (mating), gestation and farrowing/lactation phases. A questionnaire focusing on reproductive performance (for the years 2014 and 2015), management, facilities, feeding, health, and biosafety was administered. Multiple regression models were used to assess associations (alpha = 0.05) between factors and NPD and FR. An increased abortion index was associated with higher NPD (2014) and reduced FR (2014 and 2015); an increase in stillbirths was associated with higher NPD (2014 and 2015), and increased sow mortality was associated with a reduction in FR (2014 and 2015). In addition, farms had lower NPD in 2014, as the sows were younger at first farrowing, and when they had no lined ceiling in the gestation barns. Farms had lower NPD in 2015 when gilts were mated with an average weight of <= 139 kg compared to farms that mated gilts with an average weight >139 kg. Farrowing rate in 2014 was better in farms that fed pregnant sows with liquid/soup diets rather than mash or pelleted diets. Farms with higher FR in 2015 had wet-dry feeders in the farrowing barns rather than separate feeders and drinkers; they also practiced all-in/all-out management in farrowing rooms rather than continuous management. Several factors affect NPD and FR, but in general these factors do not remain the same over the years. Particular attention should be given to reducing abortions, stillborn piglets and the mortality of sows.