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Objective: This study evaluated the effect of temporary crating (TC) systems and the use of nest covers (NC) on sow welfare and piglet performance, in comparison with conventional farrowing crates (FC).
Methods: The trial was conducted on a commercial farm housing 1,200 Duroc sows, using 56 sows per batch across two consecutive batches (February to April), distributed into four experimental groups: TC with and without NC, and FC with and without NC. Reproductive, behavioral, and environmental variables were monitored, along with piglet weight gain and sow dorsal fat loss. In TC groups, sows were released from confinement starting on day 3 postpartum.
Results: The results showed that early sow release did not increase piglet crushing rates. In the second batch, piglets from TC sows achieved a higher average daily gain. NCs promoted resting behavior in thermally comfortable nest areas when ambient temperature was maintained at 23 °C, although their direct impact on piglet mortality was limited. TC sows exhibited more natural behaviors and increased interaction with their litters, indicating improved welfare.
Key limitations of the study included a small sample size (n = 14 per group), which reduced statistical power to detect mortality differences, and an uneven distribution of sow parity among groups, particularly in the second batch. Additionally, the loss of individual identifiers in the first batch hindered complete tracking of piglet mortality and growth.
Conclusion: Despite these limitations, the study supports the use of temporary crating as a viable alternative to conventional farrowing crates, provided that environmental conditions are well managed.
