Factors affecting maternal behaviour and responsiveness in sows during periparturient and lactation periods

Maternal responsiveness of sows affects piglet survival rate by influencing the economic results of breeding. The purpose of this article was to present the relations among housing environment for sows during periparturient period and lactation, endocrine changes in sows, and maternal behaviour and welfare, which ultimately all affect the productive results. The following welfare-related factors were discussed in this paper: the type of farrowing environment, including the type of pen, the area for free movement or confinement crates, alternative loose-housing systems, the importance of nest building for further nursing, and fear as a factor which can impair productivity.