Pigs are widely raised livestock, and during the breeding process, it is inevitable to encounter diseases and pests that cause losses. Parasites can seriously harm the growth and health of pigs, jeopardizing the profitability of pig farms. Below, we will discuss the common parasitic diseases in pigs and their prevention.
Common Parasitic Diseases in Pigs
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Trichinosis: Adult trichinella parasites inhabit the intestines, while larvae inhabit the skeletal muscles. This parasite often cycles between humans and pigs. Human trichinosis can lead to death, and infection usually occurs through consuming raw or undercooked pork containing trichinella cysts.
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Ascariasis: Adult ascaris parasites reside in the small intestine, while larvae migrate through the intestinal wall, liver, and lungs, causing pneumonia and liver damage. Some larvae may migrate to the stomach, causing vomiting. During necropsy, ascaris obstruction of the intestine may be observed.
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Toxoplasmosis: Infected pigs exhibit depression, reduced appetite, urinary discoloration, dry feces, prolonged fever (40.5-42°C), difficulty breathing with abdominal respiration, and cyanosis in the ears, abdomen, and limbs in the later stages.
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Sarcoptic Mange: Infected pigs experience itching in affected areas, often rubbing against the walls and fences of the pigsty. After 5-7 days, small red blood spots appear on the skin, forming pustules. Over time, the pustules rupture, scab, dry, and crack. Severe cases can be fatal, but most pigs exhibit stunted growth and development.
Preventive Measures
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Regular deworming: Generally, pig farms deworm their breeding pigs twice a year in spring and autumn, and deworm piglets at weaning when transferring groups.
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Enhance environmental hygiene: Promptly remove all types of garbage and pollutants both inside and outside the premises, ensuring thorough disinfection without leaving any blind spots.
Commonly Used Medications
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Levamisole: Oral administration at a dosage of 7-10mg per kilogram of body weight, or intramuscular injection at a dosage of 7.5mg/kg body weight. Generally used for ascarid, lungworm, kidney worm, and thorn-headed worm infections in pigs.
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Ivermectin: Prepare a 1% concentration solution for washing the affected areas. Apply once daily for 3-4 consecutive days. For oral administration, mix 100-120mg per kilogram of body weight into feed and administer once.
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Enrofloxacin and Avilamycin: Subcutaneous injection at a dosage of 0.3mg/kg body weight, repeated once after 1 week, yields satisfactory results.
Above are the introductions to common parasitic diseases in pigs and their prevention. Early implementation of preventive measures, attention to environmental hygiene, and timely deworming are crucial for pig farms.
