# Swine Respiratory Disease Observation and Diagnostics ## Key Takeaways - Swine respiratory disease (SRD) is a multifactorial syndrome requiring integrated diagnostics, including systematic observation of coughing prevalence and severity, growth performance monitoring (e.g., average daily gain, feed conversion), and rigorous environmental assessment (temperature, humidity, ventilation, stocking density). - Early detection of subclinical SRD is critical; even mild, intermittent coughing can reduce average daily gain by 2-5%, necessitating comparison against farm baselines and target growth curves. - Differential diagnosis for SRD involves a broad spectrum of viral (e.g., PRRSV, Swine Influenza A Virus) and bacterial pathogens (e.g., *Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae*, *Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae*), requiring deliberate sample planning (timing, cohort selection, specimen type like nasal swabs, bronchoalveolar lavage, lung tissue) for accurate laboratory identification. - Comprehensive record integration, including treatment logs, mortality patterns, vaccination status, and environmental data, is essential for identifying temporal associations, triggers, and the effectiveness of interventions, thereby reducing reliance on empirical treatment. - Biosecurity measures, such as all-in-all-out pig flow and disinfection, coupled with targeted vaccination programs and optimized nutrition, are fundamental to sustainable SRD management and reducing antimicrobial use. - Veterinary escalation is warranted when clinical signs persist despite environmental corrections, mortality exceeds 2% in finishers, multiple pens exhibit severe respiratory distress, or when laboratory results identify reportable or zoonotic pathogens, necessitating adherence to WOAH reporting standards. --- Swine respiratory disease is best addressed through systematic observation of coughing and growth patterns, evaluation of barn environment, deliberate sample planning, differential diagnosis, and rigorous record keeping. These components together enable early detection, accurate diagnosis, and informed management decisions. A structured approach reduces reliance on empirical treatment and supports targeted intervention aligned with farm-specific risk factors and pathogen circulation. ## At a Glance | Observation | Diagnostic Action | Purpose | |-------------|-------------------|---------| | Coughing prevalence, severity, and age distribution | Clinical scoring and recording of respiratory signs | Identify onset, progression, and affected cohorts | | Growth performance (average daily gain, feed conversion) | Compare against farm baseline and target curves | Detect subclinical disease and economic impact | | Barn environment (temperature, humidity, ventilation, stocking density) | Environmental monitoring and airflow assessment | Correlate housing factors with disease expression | | Sample planning (timing, cohort selection, specimen type) | Predefined protocol based on clinical presentation and farm history | Maximize diagnostic yield and representativeness | | Differential diagnosis list | Rule out competing etiologies using laboratory tests and necropsy | Avoid misdiagnosis and treatment failure | | Record integration (treatment logs, mortality, movement, vaccination) | Cross-reference clinical, environmental, and laboratory data | Identify patterns, triggers, and effectiveness of interventions | ## Swine Respiratory Disease in System Context Respiratory disease in swine is multifactorial, involving interplay among infectious agents, host immunity, environmental conditions, and management practices. The [Merck Veterinary Manual](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/) describes the porcine respiratory disease complex as a syndrome where primary pathogens (e.g., *[Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/mycoplasma-hyopneumoniae-enzootic-pneumonia-pigs)*, swine influenza virus, [porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome](/knowledge/viruses/general/porcine-reproductive-and-respiratory-syndrome-genomic-surveillance-and-vaccine-strategies-using-bioinformatics) virus) initiate damage, and secondary bacteria (e.g., *Pasteurella multocida*, *[Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/actinobacillus-infections-pigs)*, *Haemophilus parasuis*, *Streptococcus suis*) amplify disease. The [Food and Agriculture Organization](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/) emphasizes that herd-level disease expression depends on housing, ventilation, stocking density, and nutrition, all of which modulate exposure and immune response. The [World Organisation for Animal Health](https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-do/standards/codes-and-manuals/terrestrial-code-online-access/) includes respiratory disease surveillance and reporting standards that guide national programs and trade requirements. Global emergence of swine-origin influenza A (H1N1) in 2009 ([Emergence of a novel swine-origin influenza A (H1N1) virus in humans](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/67449110743)) and the recognition of Nipah virus as a deadly paramyxovirus with swine reservoirs ([Nipah virus: A recently emergent deadly paramyxovirus](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/0034717054)) underscore the zoonotic and pandemic potential of swine respiratory pathogens. Infectious disease dynamics in an era of global change ([Infectious disease in an era of global change](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/85117175769)) further complicate risk assessment, as shifting climate, trade networks, and production intensification alter pathogen introduction and spread. The [USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease) and its [National Animal Health Monitoring System](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/nahms) provide ongoing surveillance data on swine respiratory pathogens in the United States, supporting farm-level and industry-wide monitoring. ## Planning Decisions for Respiratory Disease Investigation Investigation begins with recognizing that coughing and reduced growth are sentinel events. The [PubMed record 42423861](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42423861/) and [PubMed record 42420291](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42420291/) address clinical scoring and growth monitoring as early detection tools. Even mild, intermittent coughing in wean-to-finish pigs can indicate subclinical *Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae* infection that depresses average daily gain by 2% to 5% over the growing period. Growth trajectory deviating from farm baseline,whether absolute or relative to pen-mates,warrants a structured diagnostic work-up. Barn environment must be assessed concurrently. Temperature swings, high relative humidity, ammonia levels above 10 ppm, poor air distribution, and improper ventilation rates are known to increase respiratory disease incidence and severity. The [Merck Veterinary Manual](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/) notes that environmental stressors impair mucociliary clearance and local immunity, predisposing pigs to infection. Objective measurement of these parameters, compared against species-specific thermal comfort ranges and ventilation design criteria, forms the environmental limb of the diagnostic puzzle. ## Sample Planning and Differential Diagnosis Deliberate sample planning is essential to avoid wasted effort and ambiguous results. The [PubMed record 42415653](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42415653/) discusses sample size considerations and selection of target cohorts (e.g., acutely affected pigs, untreated pigs, multiple age groups). Specimen types,nasal swabs, bronchoalveolar lavage, lung tissue, serum,must match the pathogen panel being tested. The [PubMed record 42428997](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42428997/) and [PubMed record 42429762](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42429762/) address refinement of sample collection protocols to improve sensitivity and specificity. Differential diagnosis for swine respiratory disease includes viral agents (PRRSV, [swine influenza A virus](/knowledge/viruses/livestock-viruses/swine-influenza-a-virus), porcine circovirus type 2, porcine respiratory coronavirus), bacterial agents (*M. hyopneumoniae*, *A. pleuropneumoniae*, *[Bordetella bronchiseptica](/knowledge/bacteria/pet-bacteria/bordetella-bronchiseptica)*, *Glaesserella parasuis*, *Pasteurella multocida*), and parasitic causes (*Metastrongylus* spp., *Ascaris suum* larvae). Environmental and management factors such as dust, endotoxin, and stocking density must be considered as contributory or primary causes. Isolation of Lelystad virus ([Mystery swine disease in The Netherlands: the isolation of Lelystad virus](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/0026198762)) marked the recognition of PRRSV as a major respiratory and reproductive pathogen, and its role continues to dominate differential lists in many regions. Severe acute respiratory failure from swine-origin influenza A (H1N1) ([Pneumonia and respiratory failure from swine-origin influenza A (H1N1) in Mexico](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/68149107226)) highlights the importance of including influenza in the differential, especially during human influenza seasons or unusual clinical presentations. ## Records as a Diagnostic Tool Existing farm records provide context that no single laboratory result can replace. Treatment records, mortality patterns by week and barn section, vaccination status, movement logs, and feed consumption changes can be correlated with clinical observations and environmental data. The [USDA National Animal Health Monitoring System](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/nahms) offers population-level benchmarks that help determine whether a farm’s respiratory disease burden is within expected ranges. Systematic record review allows the diagnostician to assess temporal associations,for example, whether coughing onset coincides with weaning, mixing, or weather events,and guides sample timing and cohort selection. Records also support evaluation of intervention effectiveness over time, closing the loop between diagnosis and management. Barn environment directly influences respiratory disease expression. Poor ventilation, high stocking density, and excessive humidity favor pathogen accumulation and impair mucosal defenses. Swine producers should assess air exchange rates, ammonia levels, and temperature gradients across pens. According to the [Merck Veterinary Manual overview of swine respiratory disease](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/), environmental stressors such as drafts or temperature swings can precipitate clinical signs in subclinically infected herds. The [FAO Animal Production and Health guidance](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/) emphasizes that barn design should separate age groups and provide clean, dry resting areas. Regular cleaning of slatted floors and removal of manure reduce aerosolized bacteria. Producers must measure and record environmental parameters daily, particularly during cold weather when ventilation is often reduced to conserve heat, creating conditions conducive to respiratory infection. Nutrition and water quality also affect susceptibility. Diets that are balanced for energy, protein, and micronutrients support immune function. Water intake must be adequate and delivered through clean, accessible nipples or troughs. The [USDA National Animal Health Monitoring System (NAHMS) swine studies](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/nahms) have documented that farms with poor water quality or restricted access have higher rates of respiratory morbidity. Feed mycotoxins can impair immunity and exacerbate infections. Veterinary consultation should be sought if feed quality is suspect. Water medication may be used under professional supervision to deliver antimicrobials or electrolytes to affected groups, but treatment decisions require a confirmed diagnosis and established withdrawal times. Production-stage decisions affect respiratory disease patterns. In farrowing rooms, sow vaccination programs and colostrum management determine passive immunity transfer. After weaning, mixing pigs from multiple litters spreads endemic pathogens such as *Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae* and porcine circovirus type 2. Grow-finish barns often show the cumulative effects of chronic infection, with coughing and variability in growth rates appearing weeks after placement. [PubMed record 42428997](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42428997/) discusses differential diagnosis of viral and bacterial causes based on age and clinical course. In breeding herds, respiratory disease can reduce feed intake and weaning weights. Producers should record mortality, culling rates, and average daily gain by pen or room to identify production-stage vulnerabilities. Records enable objective comparison before and after management changes. Records are the foundation of diagnostic planning. Daily logs of cough prevalence, sick pen pulls, and treatment rates are invaluable. The [WOAH Terrestrial Animal Health Code](https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-do/standards/codes-and-manuals/terrestrial-code-online-access/) provides standards for disease surveillance and reporting that apply to commercial swine farms. In practice, a simple numerical scoring system for cough severity and distribution (e.g., 0 to 3 for none, mild, moderate, severe) helps track changes over time. Growth patterns, such as increased days to market or increased coefficient of variation in body weight within a group, signal underlying respiratory dysfunction. [PubMed record 42420291](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42420291/) notes that chronic respiratory disease often manifests as poor feed conversion before mortality rises. When records indicate a deterioration, sample collection should be systematic: collect lung tissues from freshly died or euthanized pigs (preferably those with acute signs and not treated within 24 hours), nasal swabs from live pigs with active coughing, and blood samples for serology. The [USDA APHIS Livestock and Poultry Disease resources](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease) offer guidance on necropsy protocol and specimen shipping. Welfare considerations align directly with respiratory health. Pigs with labored breathing, extended periods of lying, or reluctance to move require immediate attention. Humane euthanasia should be performed without delay for animals that cannot recover. Multisite production systems that separate nursery and finishing facilities reduce pathogen load and improve welfare by preventing chronic disease. The [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/) publications stress that welfare monitoring includes respiratory rate, body condition, and the presence of ocular or nasal discharge. Caretakers must be trained to recognize dyspnea and to call for veterinary assistance when affected pigs exceed a predefined threshold. Worker and food safety are inseparable from respiratory disease management. Zoonotic pathogens such as swine influenza A viruses and Nipah virus have been documented in swine operations. The emergence of a novel swine,origin influenza A (H1N1) virus in humans in 2009, described in [this Elsevier abstract](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/67449110743), highlights the risk of interspecies transmission. The [Elsevier abstract on Nipah virus](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/0034717054) notes that paramyxoviruses can cause severe respiratory and neurological disease in humans. Personal protective equipment (PPE) including fitted N95 respirators, gloves, and coveralls should be used when handling coughing pigs or processing samples. Facilities must have designated clean and dirty zones, with footbaths and handwashing stations. The [WOAH Terrestrial Animal Health Code](https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-do/standards/codes-and-manuals/terrestrial-code-online-access/) provides biosecurity guidelines that apply to all swine operations to reduce pathogen spillover. Food safety is maintained by following withdrawal times for any medications used, as residues in pork can affect consumers. Producers should consult their veterinarian before using any extra,label drugs. Failure patterns in respiratory disease management indicate where diagnostics are needed. If antibiotic treatments do not reduce coughing within 48 to 72 hours, bacterial resistance or viral etiology is likely. Recurrence of clinical signs after treatment suggests environmental triggers or reinfection from contaminated airspace. Inconsistent response across pens may point to differential exposure or co,infections. [PubMed record 42415653](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42415653/) discusses the role of co,infections in complicating clinical diagnosis. When mortality spikes in a single barn while adjacent barns remain healthy, consider a novel pathogen introduction or a breakdown in ventilation or ventilation control. The [Elsevier abstract on pneumonia and respiratory failure from swine,origin influenza A in Mexico](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/68149107226) demonstrates that severe human cases have been linked to swine influenza strains. In pigs, such outbreaks require immediate veterinary investigation, sample submission to a diagnostic laboratory, and temporary movement restrictions. Practical monitoring integrates daily observation with standardized data collection. Walk pens twice daily when pigs are active. Note the number of pigs coughing in each pen, their age, and whether the cough is dry, moist, or paroxysmal. Weigh a sample of pigs weekly to calculate average daily gain. Compare current performance to historical baselines. The [Elsevier abstract on mystery swine disease in the Netherlands and the isolation of Lelystad virus](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/0026198762) highlights that novel pathogens can emerge without a clear clinical picture, underscoring the need for routine surveillance. If growth deviation exceeds 5% or cough prevalence rises above 10% of pigs in a group, initiate diagnostic sampling and consult a swine veterinarian. Record keeping should include vaccination dates, medication batches, and environmental sensor data. This information supports differential diagnosis by identifying temporal and spatial clusters. For example, if coughing begins in pens near a malfunctioning exhaust fan, the primary cause may be environmental instead of infectious. The [USDA APHIS Livestock and Poultry Disease](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease) and [USDA NAHMS](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/nahms) both promote integrated record systems for disease monitoring. Professional escalation is warranted when clinical signs spread rapidly, when pigs show respiratory distress with fever, or when mortality exceeds historical norms. The veterinarian may request serological profiling, bacterial culture, or molecular testing. The [PubMed record 42423861](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42423861/) provides a framework for using diagnostic assays to differentiate between influenza A virus, porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus, *Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae*, and *[Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/actinobacillus-pleuropneumoniae-app-pigs)*. Transport of live or dead pigs to a diagnostic laboratory must comply with biosecurity and animal welfare regulations. Producers and veterinarians should review findings together and implement corrective actions, such as improving airflow, adjusting pig flow, or modifying vaccine protocols. The [PubMed record 42429762](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42429762/) discusses the economic impact of respiratory disease and the value of timely diagnostics. While uncertainty remains for every case, the combination of careful observation, robust records, and structured sample planning reduces guesswork and improves herd health outcomes. ## Health Observation and Barn Environment Regular, systematic observation of coughing patterns and growth performance forms the foundation of swine respiratory disease detection. Coughing that persists beyond three days, increases in frequency, or spreads across multiple pens warrants immediate attention. Producers should record the proportion of pigs coughing within each pen during a standardized observation period, noting whether coughing is dry or productive and whether it occurs primarily at rest or after movement. Growth patterns provide complementary information: pens with declining average daily gain, increased feed conversion ratio, or greater within-pen weight variation often signal underlying respiratory pathology before clinical signs become obvious. The barn environment directly influences pathogen exposure and host susceptibility. Temperature fluctuations, humidity extremes, and ammonia concentrations above recommended thresholds impair mucociliary clearance and compromise tracheobronchial defenses. Airspeed at pig level, dust levels, and stocking density affect the dose of infectious particles inhaled. Regular measurement of air quality using handheld meters and visual inspection of ventilation inlets and exhaust fans should be part of weekly routine. Water quality, particularly nitrate and bacterial counts, also contributes to respiratory health through effects on general immunity. Records must link environmental data with clinical observations. A simple spreadsheet that tracks weekly average daily gain, mortality, coughing incidence, and barn temperature and humidity allows early identification of deteriorating conditions. Differential diagnosis requires consideration of multiple pathogens, including swine influenza A virus, porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, [Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/actinobacillus-pleuropneumoniae), and Streptococcus suis. The clinical presentation alone cannot distinguish among these agents, as all can cause cough, fever, and reduced growth. Therefore, observation serves as a screening tool, not a diagnostic endpoint. ## Biosecurity and Sustainability Biosecurity measures reduce the introduction and spread of respiratory pathogens within and between herds. External biosecurity includes quarantine of incoming breeding stock for at least 30 days, testing for key pathogens before entry, and limiting visitor access. Internal biosecurity involves all-in-all-out pig flow by barn or room, cleaning and disinfection of equipment between groups, and dedicated boots and coveralls for each area. The [USDA APHIS Livestock and Poultry Disease](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease) guidelines emphasize that effective biosecurity reduces the need for antimicrobial use, supporting both animal welfare and sustainability. Sustainability in swine respiratory disease management means reducing reliance on metaphylactic antibiotics through prevention and early detection. Vaccination programs tailored to the herd's pathogen profile, using autogenous or commercial vaccines, can lower disease incidence. However, vaccine efficacy varies and does not eliminate the need for environmental control. The [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/) resources highlight that integrated management,combining biosecurity, ventilation, nutrition, and genetics,improves long-term herd health more sustainably than any single intervention. ## Diagnostic and Veterinary Escalation When clinical observation and environmental assessment suggest respiratory disease, samples must be collected appropriately for laboratory diagnosis. Sample planning depends on the stage of disease, the number of affected pigs, and the specific agents suspected. For acute outbreaks, collect serum, nasal swabs, and lung tissue from three to five acutely affected, untreated pigs. For chronic or endemic patterns, include oral fluids from multiple pens, tonsillar scrapings, and blood from pigs at various ages. Samples should be cooled immediately and shipped to a diagnostic laboratory within 24 hours. The [Merck Veterinary Manual](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/) provides detailed guidance on sample collection and handling for swine respiratory pathogens. Veterinary escalation is necessary when: - Coughing and growth loss do not improve with environmental corrections. - Mortality exceeds 2% in a finisher group. - Multiple pens show severe respiratory distress. - Laboratory results identify reportable or zoonotic pathogens. The [WOAH Terrestrial Animal Health Code](https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-do/standards/codes-and-manuals/terrestrial-code-online-access/) specifies that suspected cases of notifiable swine diseases, such as classical swine fever or African swine fever (which can present with respiratory signs), must be reported to national veterinary authorities immediately. Swine influenza A virus, while not always notifiable, has zoonotic potential as demonstrated by the 2009 H1N1 pandemic (see [emergence of swine-origin influenza A](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/67449110743)). Zoonotic risk requires that personnel use appropriate personal protective equipment when handling suspect cases and that public health authorities are notified if human illness occurs. ### Uncertainty in Diagnosis Diagnostic test results carry inherent uncertainty. [Polymerase chain reaction](/knowledge/molecular-biology/polymerase-chain-reaction) (PCR) tests detect nucleic acid, not necessarily viable pathogen, and can yield false positives from residual vaccine or past infection. Serology indicates exposure but cannot distinguish current from historical infection. Culture requires viable organisms and may fail in improperly stored samples. Histopathology on lung tissue provides the most definitive evidence of active disease but requires euthanasia. The [USDA National Animal Health Monitoring System](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/nahms) data emphasize that multiple tests and repeated sampling improve diagnostic accuracy. Interpretation of test results must consider the pretest probability based on clinical signs and herd history. When results are equivocal or conflict with clinical observation, discuss with the diagnostic laboratory and consider repeat sampling. The [PubMed record 42429762](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42429762/) and other recent literature stress that molecular diagnostics should be combined with clinical and pathological assessment for reliable decision-making. ## Frequently Asked Questions **1. How can I tell if coughing is caused by environment or infection?** Persistent coughing that improves after ventilation adjustment or ammonia reduction suggests an environmental component. Coughing that spreads rapidly through a pen and is accompanied by fever, lethargy, or mortality points to infectious causes. **2. Which sample is best for diagnosing Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae?** Transtracheal wash or lung lavage fluid from acutely affected pigs provides the highest sensitivity. Oral fluids are less sensitive but useful for herd-level surveillance. **3. When should I call a veterinarian for respiratory disease in the herd?** If average daily gain drops by more than 10% for more than two consecutive weeks, mortality exceeds 2%, or the coughing index remains high despite environmental corrections. **4. Can vaccination replace biosecurity?** No. Vaccination reduces disease severity but does not prevent infection or transmission. Biosecurity remains essential. **5. What is the role of influenza A in swine respiratory disease?** Swine influenza A virus is a major primary pathogen that can predispose pigs to secondary bacterial pneumonia. It is also zoonotic, so human protective measures are important. **6. How often should barn air quality be monitored?** Weekly checks of ammonia, temperature, humidity, and airspeed are recommended. More frequent checks during peak disease risk periods. **7. What do I do if diagnostic test results are negative but disease continues?** Review sample quality, timing, and number. Consider testing for less common pathogens or using parallel testing (e.g., PCR plus serology). Consult with a veterinary diagnostic laboratory. **8. How can respiratory disease management support sustainability?** Reducing disease through prevention lowers antimicrobial use, improves feed efficiency, and decreases mortality, all of which reduce the environmental footprint of pork production. ## Educational Veterinary Notice This material provides general guidance for swine respiratory disease observation and diagnostics. Each herd has unique pathogen profiles, management conditions, and regulatory requirements. A licensed veterinarian should be consulted for diagnosis, treatment plans, and biosecurity recommendations tailored to individual operations. Always follow national and local veterinary regulations regarding notifiable diseases and antimicrobial stewardship. ## Related Farming Guides - [Pig Farming Breeding Farrowing Nursery Grow Finish Nutrition And Biosecurity](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/pig-farming-breeding-farrowing-nursery-grow-finish-nutrition-and-biosecurity) - [Farrowing House Preparation And Sow Care](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/farrowing-house-preparation-and-sow-care) - [Newborn Piglet Care During The First 48 Hours](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/newborn-piglet-care-during-the-first-48-hours) - [Pig Farm Biosecurity Plan](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/pig-farm-biosecurity-plan) - [Production Records For Pig Farms](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/production-records-for-pig-farms) ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Pig Enrichment Programs and Behavior Monitoring](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/pig-enrichment-programs-and-behavior-monitoring) * [Swine Handling Facility Design for Safe Pig Movement](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/swine-handling-facility-design-safe-pig-movement) * [Swine Feeding Management for Grow-Finish Pigs](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/swine-feeding-management-for-grow-finish-pigs) ## References and Further Reading - [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/) - [WOAH Terrestrial Animal Health Code](https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-do/standards/codes-and-manuals/terrestrial-code-online-access/) - [USDA APHIS Livestock and Poultry Disease](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease) - [Merck Veterinary Manual](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/) - [USDA National Animal Health Monitoring System](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/nahms) > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.