Weaning the pig

Book excerpt: 'Weaning the Pig: Concepts and Consequences' is a new book that addresses the major issues surrounding the weaning process, both for piglets and the breeding herd, in modern-day pig production. The post-weaned pig presents many challenges to the manager, stockperson and nutritionist, and as such is a critical phase in the overall production system. Numerous challenges are also faced by the sow, which is required to be rebred as soon as possible after weaning. This book draws together summaries of research dealing with both piglets and the sow, and is a unique book in this regard. Accordingly, the material presented covers in detail the following areas associated with the weaning process: growth of the weaned pig, nutritional management in preparation for weaning, behavioural changes and adaptations around weaning, voluntary feed intake, digestive physiology, modulation of small intestinal integrity, the intestinal microflora and diarrhoeal diseases after weaning, intestinal immunity, nutritional requirements and intestinal requirements of the weaned pig, environmental and housing issues after weaning, saving and rearing supernumery and underprivileged piglets, and productivity and longevity of the weaned sow. The chapters have been written by acknowledged experts from around the world. The book is an ideal reference for all professions associated with the pig industry, and is invaluable as a text for students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.