Swine Gestation Calculator
Calculate the farrowing date for a pregnant sow or gilt.
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Mastering Swine Gestation: A Producer's Guide
The Swine Gestation Calculator is a crucial tool for hog producers, helping to predict the farrowing (birthing) date for a pregnant sow or gilt. Accurate scheduling allows for proper preparation of farrowing crates, ensures staff is available to assist, and helps in managing the overall flow of the operation.
The "3 Months, 3 Weeks, 3 Days" Rule
The gestation period for swine is famously remembered by the simple rule: 3 months, 3 weeks, and 3 days. This totals approximately 114 days. While this is an excellent and widely used average, the actual gestation can range from 112 to 116 days.
This calculator uses the "3 months, 3 weeks, 3 days" rule to provide a reliable estimated farrowing date. For large operations, it's common to move sows into farrowing crates around day 110 of gestation to allow them to acclimate before giving birth.
How to Use the Calculator
Estimating the farrowing date is straightforward:
- Select the Breeding Date: Use the calendar to input the date of successful breeding (service date).
- Calculate: Click the "Calculate Farrowing Date" button.
- Get the Result: The calculator adds 3 months and 3 weeks (21 days) to the breeding date to project the estimated farrowing date.
Signs of Impending Farrowing
As the calculated farrowing date approaches, producers should watch for key signs that the sow is preparing to give birth:
- Nesting Behavior: Within 24-48 hours of farrowing, the sow will become restless, pawing at the floor and attempting to build a nest.
- Swollen Vulva: The vulva will become noticeably swollen and reddened.
- Presence of Milk: Milk can typically be expressed from the teats 12-24 hours before farrowing begins.
- Abdominal Contractions: Visible muscle contractions along the sow's flank indicate that labor has begun.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between a sow and a gilt?
A gilt is a female pig that has not yet had a litter of piglets. Once she has farrowed her first litter, she is referred to as a sow.
Why is attending farrowing important?
Attending farrowing is critical to maximizing piglet survival. It allows staff to assist with difficult births, prevent crushing by the sow, ensure piglets are warm and dry, and help them receive colostrum quickly.
What is colostrum and why is it vital?
Colostrum is the first milk produced by the sow. It is rich in antibodies that provide newborn piglets with passive immunity, as they are born with very little protection against disease. It's crucial that each piglet receives colostrum within the first 6-12 hours of life.
What is a typical litter size?
A typical litter size for modern commercial sows is between 10 and 14 live-born piglets. However, this can vary based on the sow's age, genetics, and overall health.
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