Effects of housing conditions during farrowing and nursing of sows on growth and behaviour of piglets before and after weaning

Sows were kept in a group prior to farrowing, and were allowed to farrow an d to nurse their piglets either in individual farrowing systems (IFS) (n = 69) or in group farrowing system (GFS) (n = 29). Under both systems a nursi ng periods was maintained for 35 days, GFS-piglets grew faster (p < 0.001) both prior to and after weaning when compared to IFS. Significant differenc es (p < 0.05) were observed in open field test between the two piglet group s With regard to in vocal-, escape-, and exploratory behaviour, as well as locomotion. When piglets were transferred to rearing quarters after weaning , IFS-piglets (n = 669) were significantly more aggressive when compared to GFS-piglets (n = 263). it is concluded, that the intensity of social conta cts during the suckling period affects behaviour both prior to and after we aning and improves growth rate of piglets.