Managing ''teat order'' in suckling pigs (Sus scrofa domestica)

Variability of pig weight at weaning can be a significant problem with some management systems. The purpose of the present study was to increase uniformity by assigning lighter birth weight piglets to the front teats (supposedly more productive). Thirty-four litters were randomly assigned in a repeated measurement, split-plot design. No difference was found (P>0.05) in the litter weight between treatments (modified teat order versus intact ones). Variances of mean weaning weights (39 days of age) were also similar (P>0.05). Heavier piglets showed a tendency to remain heavier independent of the udder region to which they were attached. It was concluded that no advantage was obtained in homogeneity and mean litter weight from modifying the natural teat order.