Reasons for and Prevention of Tail Biting in Pigs

In recent years, the phenomenon of pigs biting each other's tails has gradually increased in large-scale pig farms. In mild cases, only half of the tail is left, while in severe cases, the entire tail may be bitten off. So, what are the reasons for pigs biting tails? How can it be prevented? Let's find out.

Reasons for Pigs Biting Tails

1. Environmental Factors in Pig Pens:

1. Many farmers use slatted floors, and pigs in lower positions in the group may bite tails due to inability to access feed.

2. Lack of bedding in pig pens can lead to tail biting as pigs compete for bedding.

3. Excessive brightness in pig pens can cause stress in the pigs, leading to tail biting.

2. Climate Conditions:

1. In high-temperature environments, pigs may become restless due to dryness, leading to tail biting.

2. Overcrowding in pig pens destabilizes the social order, resulting in tail biting.

3. Nutritional Factors:

   Feed lacking high-energy low-fiber content or deficient in vitamins, iron, copper, calcium, phosphorus, salt, etc., may lead to tail biting.

4. Disease Factors:

   Diseases such as internal and external parasitic infections can trigger stress reactions in pig herds, leading to tail biting.

   

Prevention and Treatment of Tail Biting in Pigs

1. Satisfy Nutritional Needs:

   Provide pigs with the necessary nutritional components according to their growth stages, and feed them high-energy low-fiber feed.

2. Manage Stocking Density:

   Adjust stocking density according to pen size. In winter, density can be increased, but in summer, avoid overcrowding. In short, maintain a reasonable stocking density.

3. Group Animals Appropriately:

   Group pigs with similar breeds, weights, physiques, feed intake, and temperaments together for better management.

4. Maintain Good Environmental Conditions:

   Keep the housing environment clean and provide pigs with suitable living conditions to ensure a higher quality environment.

5. Early Castration:

   Early castration not only prevents tail biting caused by mounting behavior but also improves fattening performance and carcass quality.

6. Tail Docking:

   Tail docking is a straightforward measure that can be done by either direct cutting or intermittent cutting. This method is simple to implement and can prevent inflammation and bleeding, yielding good results.

7. Proper Handling of Injured Pigs:

   Add compound vitamins, minerals, and trace elements to the daily feed. Spread coal slag in the pen. For pigs with bitten tails, promptly clean and disinfect the wounds. For severe cases, treat with corresponding medications.

8. Regular Deworming:

   Regular deworming of pig pens is essential. Deworming should be conducted based on environmental and parasite developmental conditions.

9. Provide Toys:

   Place toys in the pig pen to divert attention. Chewing toys can effectively distract pigs and promote harmonious growth.

Above are some insights into tail biting in pigs. There are many reasons for pigs biting tails. Failure to address tail biting promptly can lead to joint swelling, lameness, and even septicemia, resulting in pig deaths and economic losses for farmers. Therefore, farmers need to pay attention to prevention and treatment.