Tail wound - Atlas of swine pathology
Where: skin and subcutaneous tissue
Possible causes: Vices
Tail biting is caused by multiple factors and presents a serious economic problem for the pig industry. It is considered one of the main factors relating to animal welfare and can signal a lack of harmony between animals and the environment. This problem results in substantial costs for producers due to secondary infections and loss of body condition of the affected animals. Nutritional and environmental factors such as unbalanced diets, restricted trough space, temperature variations and overcrowding have been associated with this problem. One of the most important aspects of tail biting prevention is allowing animals to express their natural behavior. The presence of enrichment material favors this expression and helps prevent tail biting.
