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For the present study, a total of 24 multiparous sows were assigned to 3 groups differing in the amount of dietary herbs: 0, 1.0 and 1.5% of the ration. The herb mix included: nettle leaf, chamomile leaf, caraway fruit and fennel fruit. This supplement was given to experimental sows from 100 day of gestation to 21 day of lactation. Sows behaviour was monitored throughout the whole parturition period. On the three consecutive days before and after parturition, a total of 180 urine samples were collected to determine cortisol levels. The number and weight of piglets born and reared per litter was also evaluated.
The use of 1.0% or 1.5% herb supplements in the diets reduced the stress response and shortened parturition by 280 and 360 minutes (P<0.05) in groups II and III, respectively, compared to the control group. Cortisol levels in urine samples from the herb-supplemented sows were markedly lower (P<0.05) than in the control group, both before and after parturition. The litters of sows from experimental groups were larger and showed better survival.
It is concluded that the dietary herb supplementation of sow diets during the farrowing period may reduce parturition stress improving piglet survive.
JM Paschma, 2009. Book of Abstracts, EAAP – 60th Annual Meeting, Barcelona, 448.
