THE EFFECT OF THE HURNIK-MORRIS (HM) SYSTEM ON SOW LOCOMOTION, SKIN INTEGRITY, AND LITTER HEALTH

Gilts (n = 187) were randomly assigned to either the Hurnik-Morris hou sing system (HM) or a conventional gestation crate system (GC) prior t o breeding. The Hurnik-Morris system provides housing for sows in smal l groups. Gilts were synchronized for estrus and bred to Duroc Hampshi re commercial crossbred boars. Gilts were reared in their respective h ousing systems through their gestation period. Housing system during b reeding and gestation of sows did not affect their respective piglet m ortality and piglet viability levels. The slightly higher feet and leg problem scores for the HM sows at weaning may indicate a necessity fo r farrowing accommodation that will allow movement of sows during lact ation.