Daniel González-Sánchez, José F. Vázquez-Armijo, Héctor H. Velázquez-Villalva, Benito Albarrán-Portillo, Germán Gómez-Tenorio, Nicolas Lopez-Villalobos, Xochitl F. De la Rosa-Reyna, and Gaspar M. Parra-Bracamonte
This research studied what affects the number and health of piglets in large-scale farms. It found that the year, the mother sow's age, and her weight at birth are major factors. Moving piglets between litters after birth (cross-fostering) also helps them grow better. While genetics play a role, good management practices are even more important. The best results come from combining careful genetic selection with excellent daily care, proper feeding, and a controlled environment for the animals.