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Bulletin No. 26 - Fall 2006
MiscelleanousProduction
BOWN P
Advantages and disadvantages of batch farrowing.
In Practice, 2006, Volume 28, Nº2, 94-96
Following a description of the several-step process necessary for the conversion of production system to batch farrowing, the authors addresses the advantages and disadvantages of such a management system. As primary advantage features the implementation of all-in/all-out procedures which result, provided cleansing and disinfection before repopulation are correctly carried out, in improved animal health and performance. Batch farrowing also allows a better organization of work time and improved staff specialization and skill levels. The practice of cross-fostering is facilitated, as well as the implementation of common feed programs. Furthermore, batch farrowing management system can easily be associated with genetic improvement through artificial insemination and requires a limited use of boars. Finally, larger groups of animals can be marketed resulting in reduced transport costs. However, the implementation of batch farrowing requires significant initial investments and the transition from a continuous flow system may be associated with a period of low financial inflow. Furthermore, it is absolutely necessary to keep up with mating targets, to achieve suitable cycling in gilts and sows and dispose of solutions for every kind of problem (failed cycling, poor conception rates, late and early farrowing, etc.). In any case, high standards of management are the key for a successful batch farrowing system.
