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For suppliers selling farrowing pens for pigs, knowing the different types reduces spreading thin when selling the crates. It also reduces the likelihood of missing out on selling something that will be in high demand.
Sows farrowing crates come in the following types:
Standard farrowing crates
The standard farrowing crate is the most common. It consists of a housing area that is designed to keep the pig from wandering off and a farrowing area that is open for the pig to give birth and care for the young ones. The design also incorporates a small feeding area and a drainage system that helps to keep the area clean.
Automatic farrowing crates
These farrowing pens automate some feeding and cleaning functions. Common automation features include automated feeding systems and automated waste removal systems. These help to reduce labor and make the crate self-sustainable during farrowing.
Group farrowing crates
These allow multiple sows to farrow at the same time while still providing individual spaces. This encourages social interactions and reduces the isolation stress that some animals face when kept in solitude. The designers intended this crate as an opt for welfare-focused farming operations.
Mobile farrowing crates
As the name suggests, these crates are mobile and portable. They are generally used by small-scale farmers who require flexibility in their farrowing operations. The light and compact design also makes it suitable for farmers with limited space.
Escape-type farrowing crates
Unlike other crate types, these allow the sows to have the option of leaving the crate if they choose to. They are designed to improve the welfare of the animals by giving them the choice to exit while still providing a controlled environment for farrowing.
Largely, the sows' farrowing crates are used for commercial pig farming operations. It's here that they help manage large populations of pregnant sows and ensure high productivity rates through controlled breeding and farrowing.
Some of the industrial applications include:
Pig farming and commercial agriculture
The primary application of farrowing crates is in pig farming, where they are used to control and improve the rate of pig production. This creates healthier piglets and increases the productivity of the farm.
Veterinary and animal research facilities
Farrowing crates are used in veterinary research and educational institutions to study pig reproduction and farrowing behaviors. This is important because it helps researchers gain a better understanding of the best practices for animal husbandry and welfare.
Organic and small-scale farming operations
Small-scale farms and organic operations use farrowing crates to efficiently manage limited resources. It allows these farms to produce more sustainable pork while still maintaining high standards for animal welfare.
Agricultural equipment rental businesses
These businesses may offer farrowing crates as part of their inventory, providing solutions to temporary needs. Often, it is a small or new farm that partners with a rental business to reduce the initial setup costs and afford them the flexibility to manage their farrowing programs.
The design of farrowing pens for pigs is centered on promoting the wellbeing of both the sow and the piglets. Key design elements include the sow's comfort, space allocation, feeding systems, and flooring materials. All these features ensure that the animals experience as little stress as possible.
The main design elements include:
Durability and strength
Farrowing crates are designed to provide a safe and sturdy space for sows and piglets. Materials like heavy-gauge steel and galvanized iron are used to construct the crates since they need to be very strong and durable to withstand constant use and the weight of the animals.
Space and dimensions
The average farrowing crate is around 2.1 meters long and 1.5 meters wide. Its enclosed designed keeps the sow in a designated area during pregnancy and nursing. This helps to prevent her from moving around too much and harming the piglets. This spatial restriction also reduces the risk of the piglets getting separated from their mother.
Heating and comfort features
Heating elements are integrated into the crate to provide an optimal environment for the piglets, especially in colder climates. Group farrowing crates have additional bedding areas, more open space, and social enrichment features. There is a heating element in the crate that helps keep the piglets at a comfortable temperature, making it easier for them to grow strong and healthy.
Sow feeding and water systems
Two main types of eating and drinking systems are used in the crates: stationary and automated. Automated feeding and drinking systems are usually found in large industrial farms where labor is a constraint. On small family-run farms, they are usually stationary systems that require manual feeding and watering.
Ease of cleaning
The crate features a removable waste tray underneath to collect manure that can be easily emptied and cleaned. The floors are made of slatted plastic or wood that allows waste to pass through and keep the sleeping area dry.
Proper maintenance and handling of the farrowing crates ensures they last long and provide a safe and hygienic environment for the animals.
Some of the key maintenance practices include:
Routine inspections
Check the crate for any signs of wear or damage. elderly them free of repairs that could injure the animals or hinder their ability to behave normally. Look out for rust, broken slats, or any sharp edges. A simple daily inspection is enough to catch any early signs of damage.
Cleaning protocols
This helps animals stay healthy and reduces disease risks. After each farrowing, the crate needs a thorough cleaning. Farmers should use a pressure washer with disinfectant to clean the metal parts of the crate. Once sanitized, it's best to let the area dry completely before a new sow moves in.
Conduct routine maintenance
Maintenance work like tightening loose screws or replacing worn parts should be done regularly. Farrowing crates are often subjected to heavy use and require regular maintenance to ensure they remain functional.
Monitor the farrowing area conditions
Check that there is enough bedding and ensure the area is dry and well-ventilated. Proper ventilation reduces odor and keeps the area cool. Monitor for discomfort due to odors, heat, or flies.
Repairs
Avoid repairs that could unnecessarily delay the business. Fix broken crates, slats, or parts quickly to reduce downtime. Identify early signs of damage and take steps to address them before they worsen.
A1. Piglets' safety and health are better ensured by farrowing crates. They provide a controlled environment that reduces the risk of injury for piglets. It also supports optimal growth conditions through organization and cleanliness.
A2. When designed and maintained properly, farrowing crates are not harmful to the sow's health or well-being. Modern farrowing crates provide enough space for the sow to lie down, stand up, and turn around.
A3. Farrowing crates help the mother pigs stay healthy by keeping them from moving too much and hurting their babies. They also give enough room for the mother pig to lie down, stand up, and turn around.
A4. Piglets can leave the farrowing crate safely around 4 to 6 weeks after birth. By this time, they are weaned from their mother's milk and ready to start eating solid food.
A5. Piglets stay in the farrowing crate for about 3 to 4 weeks. It's a special space that helps keep them safe while they grow stronger and learn how to take care of themselves.
