Adjust litter size to match sow's nursing potential. Transfer largest piglets early, but only after they received colostrum from their original dam. Even if not cross-fostering, attendant can remove largest, most vigorous pigs for a short time at the start of a suckling period to give smaller littermates a better chance. Dystokia Farrowing is usually completed in 2 - 3 hours with approximately a 15 to 20 minute interval between piglets. Attendant should be around to give assistance if required.
Most common problem is two piglets reaching the cervix at same time.
Many producers administer parturition enhancing drugs with little regard for need. Most of the time these are unnecessary. Feeding Piglets See that each piglet nurses soon after birth to get colostrum and a good start. Piglets get ample nutrients, except iron, from milk for first 1 - 2 weeks. Should have creep feed available after 7 days or earlier if weaning before 14 days.