Why it matters
Weaning is not simply a transition—it is a biological, behavioral, and logistical milestone that determines the trajectory of both the piglet and the sow for the rest of their production cycle. Done well, it boosts performance and animal welfare. Done poorly, it cascades into digestive disorders, reduced intake, stress-induced mortality, and missed reproductive windows.
How producers can leverage innovation at weaning
1. Redefining Piglet Quality Beyond Weight
Traditionally, weight at weaning has been the primary benchmark of piglet readiness. While still relevant, the research redefines piglet quality as a combination of age, health, intake capacity, and intestinal maturity.
Innovation insight: Piglets with a weaning weight above 6 kg, adequate physiological age (>21 days), and solid creep feed experience outperform heavier but immature counterparts. In trials, low-weight, well-adapted piglets had higher post-weaning intake than heavier “strict sucklers” unfamiliar with solid feed.
Action step: Introduce high-quality creep feed during lactation. Feed multiple times per day in small amounts to stimulate exploratory behavior, support enzymatic development, and bridge the feed transition.
2. Mitigating the Post-Weaning Growth Gap
Data shows a strong correlation between feed intake during the first week post-weaning and average daily gain (ADG) over the following five weeks. However, variability remains high depending on intestinal maturity and early feeding behavior.
Strategy: Start piglets on the same feed used in the final days of lactation. Pair this with comfort-focused management (28°C ambient temperature, warm water, and rehydrating solutions). Small changes in comfort and feed familiarity dramatically reduce the latency period—the time between weaning and stable feed intake.
3. Matching Weaning Timing to Production Flow
Weaning timing must align not just with piglet readiness, but with sow reproductive management and labor availability.
Why this matters: The interval between weaning and successful insemination WEI – (Weaning to Estrus Interval) is crucial. Sows weaned in optimal condition and housed in stimulating environments (light intensity >200 lux, boar exposure) reach estrus in 3–6 days.
4. Weaning Day Optimization: Aligning Tasks, Labor, and Results
Weaning day is key and determines the moment of the rest of tasks in the farm, optimizing this choice based on gestation length, breeding protocol, and weekly workload improves efficiency.
Example: With hyperprolific sows trending toward 116–117 day gestations, Monday weaning aligns births to weekdays and inseminations to Friday/Saturday—ensuring critical tasks occur during full staffing.
Producer tip: Adjust weaning days based on genetic gestation length to reduce weekend labor intensity and early-life mortality. Avoid batching litters for weekend farrowings when staff availability may be limited.
5. Post-Weaning Housing Models: Finding the Right Fit
The post-weaning housing system significantly impacts health, logistics, and cost:
- Integrated (on-farm): Allows continuity and reduced transport stress but risks recirculation of pathogens.
- Isowean (isolated): Best for biosecurity and “all-in/all-out” flow but requires strict origin and age control.
- Wean-to-finish: Ideal for simplified transport and labor, but underutilizes space and demands early feed adaptation systems and staff training.
Conclusion: Weaning as a System, Not a Moment
The true value of modern weaning strategies lies in their holistic nature. From sow preparation and estrus timing to piglet intake training and facility design, every component matters. Together, they determine post-weaning survival, feed efficiency, and long-term profitability.
Producers who treat weaning as a biological pivot—not just a calendar event—achieve stronger herds, smoother transitions, and more predictable outcomes.
PIC’s role is to provide not only genetics that perform, but systems that support success. With tools like light-regulated boar exposure, creep-feed protocols, and environmental best practices, weaning becomes not a risk—but a strategic advantage.
References
- Magallón, E., Beitia, S., Magallón, P., Roldán, D., & Prieto, P. (2022). El destete en porcino: manejo óptimo y nuevos retos (Parte 2). SUIS Nº 186.
- Bruininx, E. M. et al. (2002). Post-weaning feed intake and growth performance correlations.
- Pluske, J. R. et al. (2007). The role of creep feeding and gut maturation in piglets.
- Queiles, A. & Hevia, J. (2006). Climatic recommendations in post-weaning management.
- PIC Technical Service (2023). Post-weaning performance guidelines and IDCF optimization.