Swine MythBusters: 5 Things You’ve Heard That Just Aren’t True

• Juni 06 2025
• 2 min Lesezeit

In the swine industry, misconceptions can spread like wildfire, often resulting in costly mistakes for producers and their herds. Understanding the truth behind common swine myths isn’t just about setting the record straight—it’s about protecting your operation’s productivity and your pigs’ well-being. Let’s debunk five persistent myths and explore how these misconceptions might be costing you.

1. “Only Sick Pigs Need Electrolytes.”

It’s a common belief that electrolytes are only necessary when pigs are visibly unwell. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Electrolytes play a critical role in preventing dehydration and supporting recovery during heat stress, transport, or other challenging conditions. Even healthy pigs benefit from a boost when environmental or situational stressors arise. Proactively offering electrolytes during these moments can prevent larger health issues down the line, ensuring your pigs stay strong and productive.

2. “Antibiotic-Free Means You Can’t Treat Sick Pigs.”

This myth causes confusion and hesitation among producers working to meet antibiotic-free system requirements. The reality? You absolutely must treat sick pigs if their health demands it. Responsible producers use antibiotics under veterinary supervision to protect animal welfare—but they also follow stringent guidelines for tracking and separating treated animals to maintain compliance with antibiotic-free protocols for the rest of the herd. Remember, health and ethics should always come first.

3. “You Only Need to Worm Pigs Once a Year.”

Parasite management isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. Worming pigs just once annually ignores variations in parasite loads between systems and seasonal changes. Regular fecal testing is essential for identifying specific challenges in your herd, and strategic rotation plans for dewormers help prevent resistance and ensure effectiveness. By personalizing your worming program, you’ll stay ahead of parasites and protect both growth rates and herd health.

4. “Lameness Is Just Part of Aging.”

Some producers accept lameness as an unavoidable consequence of aging in sows. This myth can lead to missed opportunities for intervention and prevention. Lameness is a health condition—and it often stems from injury, poor hoof care, or inadequate flooring, rather than age itself. Early detection and treatment can improve mobility, prevent culling losses, and extend sow longevity. Addressing the root causes is key to keeping your herd on its feet.

5. “Piglets Don’t Need Iron If They’re on Good Feed.”

Even with access to high-quality feed, newborn piglets still require supplemental iron in their early days of life. Injectable or oral iron is critical for preventing anemia and supporting proper growth and development. Relying solely on feed doesn’t supply enough iron to meet the needs of fast-growing piglets. Don’t overlook this simple yet vital step—it lays the foundation for healthier, stronger pigs.

The Bottom Line

Misconceptions in swine management can lead to unnecessary risks and lost productivity. By separating fact from fiction, producers can make informed decisions that align with both animal welfare and operational goals. Whether it’s using electrolytes proactively, tailoring parasite management, or prioritizing iron supplements for piglets, the truth empowers producers to optimize herd health and ensure long-term success.

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