Early socialisation in group lactation system reduces post-weaning aggression in piglets

Abstract

Background:Pre-weaning group housing for sows and their litters is expectedto enhance animal welfare. However, knowledge of potential benefits of pre-weaning socialisation for piglets after weaning is still lacking.

Methods:Weaner pigs were mixed in groups of 10, using littermates (LM)from pre-weaning group housing (Gr) and from farrowing pens with crates(Co). Groups were formed as follows: Gr/Gr (5 LM from Gr+5LMfromGr),Gr/Co(5LMfromGr+5 LM from Co), Co/Co (5 LM from Co+5LMfromCo).

Results:During 24 h after mixing, piglets in Co/Co fought more than in Gr/Coand Gr/Gr. Piglets in Co/Co had more unclear fighting results than in Gr/Coand Gr/Gr. Four days after mixing, piglets in Co/Co were more injured than inGr/Co and Gr/Gr.

Conclusion:Early socialised piglets may have better social skills when meet-ing familiar and unfamiliar conspecifics after weaning.