Impact of Temporary Crating on Sow Performance and Piglet Survival

This study evaluates temporary crating versus continuous freedom on piglet survival in Large White sows across multiple parities. Using genetically matched sister pairs, it isolates housing effects by mating sows with the same boar. Post-farrowing survival rates were similar initially (75–88%), but mortality rose significantly after crating release: 27.3% for 90% free sows versus 11.8% for 100% free sows. Sow maternal behaviour, especially post-weaning return, strongly predicted survival. Temporary crating improved outcomes only in third parity. Performance stability across parities guided selection for G2 sows. Results show sow behaviour outweighs crating in influencing piglet survival. Funded by Horizon 2020 (Grant No. 816172).