The Signs of Oestrus

Garth Pig Stockmanship Standards

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The Signs of Oestrus
Pro-oestrus (When Training, tick off)
	In gilts, the vulva swells, but this is not consistent in the sow.
	The vulva becomes congested or red.
	The udder develops in gilts.
	The female becomes nervous and easily disturbed.
	She is ridden by other sows, but does not stand.
	Vaginal walls become reddened (congested).
	Clitoris becomes more prominent.
	Vaginal fluids thicken, produce strands between fingers.
Oestrus
	The vulva reddening starts to subside
	There is a slight mucus vulva discharge
	The female becomes more active
	The female starts to mount other sows, and if mounted starts to stand
	Emits a characteristic high-pitched grunt
	She actively seeks boars
	Has a decreased appetite
	Stands to back pressure, particularly in the presence of a boar
	In a Large White (Yorkshire) she pricks her ears
	Rub marks evident on skin
	Has a clean vulva in outdoor units (post service)
	Rubs and is attracted to stockpeople
	Allows coitus

Nothing beats good heat detection

You should never be surprised to find a sow or gilt in season

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Extracted from Garth Pig Stockmanship Standards*
written by Dr John Carr.

You can buy this book HERE
*Published by 5M Enterprises Limited