Many pig farmers have encountered the issue of sow's milk backflow after weaning. This phenomenon can lead to decreased appetite, breast swelling, and slow body recovery in sows. Let's explore the reasons behind sow's milk backflow:
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Improper Feeding: Check if there are any issues with water and feed quality. Inadequate water supply or inappropriate feed can cause milk backflow. Strengthen feeding management, provide adequate water and feed, and consider adding supplements like lactation tonics to promote postpartum recovery.
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Excessive Nutrition and Ongoing Mammary Development: After giving birth, sows need comprehensive and rich nutrients, but excessive supplementation should be avoided. Sows don't need to be overly fat; their body condition should be controlled at about 7-8 points. If the mammary glands are still active and excessive nutrients are supplemented, the sow may start producing milk again.
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Hormonal Changes: Sows' mammary glands secrete a large amount of milk during nursing. If piglets are weaned too suddenly, milk accumulates in the mammary glands, causing hormonal changes and milk backflow. Therefore, both piglets and sows should be considered when weaning.
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Anxiety: Sows may experience anxiety and feelings of loss after weaning, leading to emotional distress and a resurgence of milk production.
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Piglet Illness: If piglets fall ill after weaning, sows may feel uncomfortable and guilty, leading them to attempt to nurse the piglets to compensate for their perceived failure in caring for their offspring.
Addressing sow's milk backflow promptly is crucial as it is a normal physiological phenomenon. Severe milk backflow can also have adverse effects on the sow's health.
