All pigs in UAC facilities must be individually identified by a permanent method, e.g., ear notches, plastic ear tag with unique number. Also, all pigs in UAC facilities must have an individual record of veterinary treatments and if survival surgery is performed, there must be a permanent surgical record kept with the veterinary record. If solid floors are used for housing pigs, they should be deeply bedded with straw, wood shavings, or ground corn cob litter, to prevent the pigs from slipping. However, pigs will eat the bedding, especially if being fasted prior to surgery. If pigs are housed on raised, slatted floors, the openings must not allow the foot to fall through and become entrapped.
Pigs have a simple stomach and lack the ability to ferment fiber.
Therefore, pigs cannot digest fibrous plant material like the cow, sheep or horse. Instead, they eat feeds containing easily digestible starches and simple sugars, very much like man. Also like man, pigs are omnivorous and will eat various forms of meat, vegetables and fruit. After three months of age, pigs should be switched to a maintenance diet with higher amounts of fiber. If the sow is pregnant or lactating, a special diet is needed to provide more energy and nutrients.