To identify practical pre-weaning management strategies that improve pig performance after weaning and reduce cost of production in Australian pork systems.
This project investigated how early-life management practices influence pig performance after weaning. Using both large-scale commercial data and controlled experiments, researchers examined the effects of weaning age, fostering practices and weaning age spread on survival, growth, feed efficiency and lifetime productivity.
The research found that pigs weaned at older ages performed better after weaning, while late fostering (>24hr post birth) was associated with poorer outcomes. Pigs managed in groups with a tighter weaning age spread, ideally within a range of three days, showed improved growth, feed efficiency and carcass uniformity.
Overall, the project demonstrated that relatively simple management changes during the pre-weaning period can deliver long-term benefits for pig performance and profitability.
The findings provide practical, low-cost management options to improve pig robustness and performance through the weaning transition period. By increasing weaning age (where possible), avoiding late fostering and reducing weaning age spread producers can improve growth performance, feed efficiency and potential carcass value.
• Older weaning age improved post-weaning survival and lifetime growth performance.
• Pigs fostered after the first day of life generally performed worse than non-fostered pigs or those fostered within 24 hours after birth.
• A tighter weaning age spread, ideally within a range of three days, improved growth, feed efficiency and carcass uniformity.
• Gilt progeny were more vulnerable during the post-weaning period and may benefit most from tighter weaning ages.
• Many of the factors affecting performance are management-driven and can be readily implemented on commercial farms.
For further information about this project, please contact APL’s Research and Innovation Program Manager – Farming and Welfare, Dr Rebecca Athorn via email: Rebecca.athorn@australianpork.com.au
