Influence of environmental stimuli on maternal behaviour related to bonding, reactivity and crushing of piglets in domestic sows (1998)

Herskin, M. S., Jensen, K. H., Thodberg, K.

Abstract

The present results suggest that provision of sand and straw considered biologically relevant for nest building and lactating sows, affect the maternal behaviour and favour survival of the piglets by increasing sow reactivity and maternal bonding. The effects of sand may be restricted to the first week postpartum whereas the presence of straw seems beneficial during the entire period. The observed effects might be mediated through increased comfort of the sow, the physical properties of the environmental stimuli or increased relevance of feedback from the environment either pre-or postpartum.