Hoof health, or foot health of pregnant sows, has become a reason for culling. This issue can account for 5–10% of culling within the breeding herd, which makes it necessary to analyze the causes in order to take appropriate measures.
Additionally, the culling of pregnant sows due to hoof or claw problems not only impacts meat production, but also increases operational costs because of the need to replace the removed animals.
It is therefore crucial to investigate and understand the underlying causes of these conditions. Among the potential solutions, adequate supplementation with specific minerals can play a key role in improving hoof health in pregnant sows, reducing culling rates, and optimizing overall reproductive herd productivity.
Hoof health and its relationship with nutrition
The hind hooves are usually the most affected. There are several conditions that can compromise the hoof health of sows, including:
Sow weightIt is important to understand that gestation leads to a significant increase in the animal’s weight, which can be around 30 kg. The pressure from this additional weight falls directly on the sow’s hooves and/or phalanges, potentially compromising hoof health.
MobilityWhen the animal is confined to a gestation crate, its mobility is significantly restricted. In this situation, natural hoof wear does not occur, leading to potential malformations. The lack of exercise also results in underdeveloped anatomical structures—such as muscles and cartilage—which compromises hoof health and structural strength.
Mobilization of Body ReservesIt is well known that a sow must mobilize her body reserves to support the development of the fetuses she is carrying. Lipid and protein tissues are broken down to supply the necessary nutrients for fetal growth and development. However, she also mobilizes minerals, which are essential for the bone development of her piglets.
Hoof injuries in sows lead to a decrease in feed intake, which can result in nutrient deficiencies in the animal. If this condition is not corrected, the performance in future farrowings may be negatively affected.
The hoof of a sow is primarily composed of keratin, a structural protein rich in cysteine, which forms disulfide bonds to provide strength. Collagen also plays a crucial role in the underlying dermis of the hoof, providing support and flexibility. It is classified into three types:
Type 1: Predominates in the dermis of the hoof, providing stre...
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