Surface temperatures of growing pigs in relation to the duration of acclimation to air temperature or draught.

Abstract The aim of this work was to study to what extent surface temperatures of growing pigs are altered during acclimation to a change of the air temperature and to exposure to draught. 4 groups of 10 pigs (Large White × Dutch Landrace) of approximately 10 weeks old were used. They were housed in 2 calorimeters with 2 pens each. In the reference chamber air temperature was kept constant at 25°C, in the other chamber air temperature could be lowered to 15°C, and a draught was also applied. Surface temperatures of the pigs were measured by means of Probey® Thermal Video System, with an accuracy of ±0.3°C. Surface temperatures of growing pigs were obviously related to air temperature, draught and the duration of food withdrawal. Acclimation to air temperature or draught as measured by surface temperatures was not observed between days, but within and between night periods. Also indications of huddling, vasocontriction and even cold-induced vasodilatation within the neck, chest and abdomen region of the pigs' body surface were observed.

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