The impact of cross-fostering on swine production

Suphot Wattanaphansak Supol Luengyosluechakul Alejandro Larriestra John Deen THE IMPACT OF CROSS-FOSTERING ON SWINE PRODUCTION Cross-fostering is a technique used in swine management systems to reduce preweaning mortality rates, increase growth rates and reduce weight variations in litters. However, extensive cross-fostering and moving piglets from one litter to another throughout the lactation period, can decrease both weaning weights and growth rates. To avoid these impacts, limited cross-fostering during the first few days of life, usually 1-3 days, should be applied. The weak and small piglets at birth should have special care and enough colostrum intake before cross-fostering is performed.