Thompson's tip: Dangers of fluctuating winter temperatures
It is important to position thermometers in a representative area of the house. Passageways under air inlets may not reflect temperatures experienced at pig level.
Page 7 of articles about temperature
Warms water in winter
Sub-zero conditions last winter caused huge problems for pig farmers due to drinking systems freezing up, particularly in straw-based housing.
Thermal control of piglets in the farrowing pen (IV)
In this chapter we will consider the benefits of closed nests and the importance of temperature regulation according to the age of the piglets.
Thermal control of piglets in the farrowing pen (III)
In this chapter we will take a look at the use of heat lamps and how to distribute heat inside the pen.
Thermal control of piglets in the farrowing pen (II)
In this chapter we will discuss the benefits of heating mats
Thermal control of piglets in the farrowing pen (I)
The majority of newborn mamals are very sensitive to low temperatures. However, piglets are especially predisposed to loss of energy.
Seasonality and mortality at fattening
One could think that the number of deaths increases in the winter in the northern hemisphere because the animals freeze to death.
Thompson’s tip: Sub-zero temperatures pose biosecurity challenge
The recent sub-zero temperatures pose a significant challenge for biosecurity on pig units. Unfortunately the survival of major pathogens such as dysentery is enhanced in cold weather, warns Paul Thompson, veterinary consultant to pig-breeding company ACMC Ltd.
Toes toastie to minus 40!
Thermo-insulated wellington boots to keep feet warm and dry down to minus 40C are a wise buy this winter.
Thompson’s tip: Monitor temperature during cold snaps
The recent cold snap is a reminder that winter is coming! Already, our practice is seeing upsurges in coughs and respiratory disease in pigs, probably triggered by fluctuations in temperature, says Paul Thompson, veterinary consultant to pig-breeding company ACMC Ltd.
Factors that influence feed consumption and its conversion in fattening pigs
Genetic selection over the last few decades has resulted in pigs with better feed conversion and leaner carcasses, but it has also led to pigs with a decreased ingestion capacity.
Fattening: Cleanliness and feed
This new test has to do with the correct feed and levels of hygiene in the pens.
Thompson’s tip: Creep mat temperature control is crucial
Many pig producers have replaced creep lamps with heat mats. Problems with overlying have been seen where these are set too hot and piglets choose not to lie on the mats, says Paul Thompson, veterinary consultant to pig-breeding company ACMC Ltd.
Environmental control in the growing phase (II): Environmental needs
In order to try to control the environment, it is important: - Be able to evaluate it. - Be familiar with the needs of different types of animals. - Implement corrective measures to adapt to those needs.
Comparison of ammonia and greenhouse gas emissions from fattening pigs kept either on partially slatted floor in cold conditions or on fully slatted floor in thermoneutral conditions
Continuous measurements of ammonia and greenhouse gas were achieved on exhaust air from two fattening rooms differing by the type of floor (totally slatted vs partially slatted floor) and the ambient temperature. Temperature was regulated at 18°C in the room with partially slatted floor (room CP18) and 24°C in the room with fully slatted floor (CI24).
Environmental control in the growing phase (I): Checking the environment
Man is possibly the only animal capable of living in practically all places in the world, regardless of the climate. This is due to his capacity to construct buildings to isolate himself from the climate however extreme it may be, maintaining an environment which allows him to survive. As domestic animals live together with man, they have to take advantage indirectly of this capacity.