Fermenting bed keeps piglets away from diarrhea
Fermenting Bed Helps Keep Piglets Away from Diarrhea
Xia Yun
Abstract: Diarrhea in pigs, especially in piglets, is one of the most challenging issues in the swine industry. This article explores the root causes of swine diarrhea, emphasizing that microbial infections are the primary cause. It suggests using a fermentation bed system combined with proper feeding management as an effective solution to prevent and control the disease.
Keywords: diarrhea, fermentation bed, microbial infection, piglets
What Is Piglet Diarrhea?
Diarrhea in pigs, particularly in young piglets, is a widespread and recurring issue in the swine industry. According to statistics, nearly 40% of piglet deaths are caused by this condition. With the rapid development of China’s pig farming sector, the problem of diarrhea has become more serious. In China, about 45% of piglets under 30 kg suffer from diarrhea annually, and the mortality rate exceeds 10%. That means, for every 10 piglets, at least one dies from the disease. The impact of this illness goes beyond death; it also affects growth performance, leading to conditions like "stiff pigs" and reduced feed efficiency. Clearly, diarrhea is a major constraint on the sustainable development of the pig industry.
Why Do Piglets Suffer From Diarrhea?
Newborn piglets have not yet developed a stable gut microbiome, making them highly susceptible to external pathogens. They are vulnerable to bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, and viruses like the porcine rotavirus. Additionally, stress factors such as temperature changes, poor nutrition, or vitamin deficiencies can trigger diarrhea. Suckling piglets are often affected by infectious agents, while weaned pigs tend to experience non-infectious causes like dietary allergies or sudden feed changes.
Main Causes of Diarrhea in Pigs
The main causes of pig diarrhea can be categorized into four groups: bacterial, viral, parasitic, and nutritional/toxic factors. Common bacterial diseases include E. coli, Salmonella, and swine dysentery, while viral causes include porcine epidemic diarrhea and rotavirus. Parasites like coccidia also play a significant role. Since many of these are microorganisms, it's clear that microbial infection is the key driver behind most cases of pig diarrhea. To address this issue effectively, we must focus on preventing microbial spread and maintaining a healthy gut environment.
What Are the Benefits of a Fermentation Bed System?
The fermentation bed method, also known as “zero-emission pig farming†or “Ginba Fermentation Bed,†is a modern technique that integrates principles of microbiology, nutrition, and biology. By mixing beneficial microbes with organic materials like sawdust and rice husks, the bedding becomes a living environment where pig waste is broken down naturally. This process generates crude protein and bacterial proteins, which help maintain a balanced gut microbiome in pigs. As a result, pigs grow faster, develop stronger immunity, and experience fewer diseases. Moreover, the system eliminates odors, reduces pollution, and produces healthier meat.
How Does a Fermentation Bed Prevent Diarrhea?
Pig manure contains undigested organic matter and harmful microorganisms. If left untreated, it can lead to the spread of pathogens and increase the risk of diarrhea. However, in a fermentation bed, beneficial microbes break down the waste, creating a high-temperature, acidic environment that kills harmful bacteria and parasites. For example, while E. coli and Salmonella are heat-resistant, the antimicrobial peptides and organic acids produced by the microbes in the bed are highly effective against them. Similarly, coccidial oocysts, which are resistant to traditional disinfectants, are destroyed within 15 minutes at 55°C. This makes the fermentation bed a powerful tool in preventing infectious diseases.
Best Practices for Using Fermentation Beds
While the fermentation bed system is effective, it requires proper management. Key practices include: 1. Ensuring proper vaccination schedules, including vaccines for E. coli, rotavirus, and other common pathogens. 2. Maintaining a clean and controlled environment, avoiding stress factors such as sudden temperature changes or poor feeding habits. 3. Regularly turning the bedding to promote decomposition and prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria. 4. Providing balanced nutrition to pregnant sows and piglets to support immune function. 5. Using probiotics, herbal supplements, and enzymes to improve gut health and reduce the risk of diarrhea. 6. Ensuring access to clean drinking water to avoid contamination.
Conclusion
The fermentation bed system offers a sustainable and effective way to reduce piglet diarrhea. By addressing the root causes of disease through microbial balance and improved hygiene, farmers can significantly enhance pig health and productivity. However, success depends on consistent management, proper feeding, and a holistic approach to animal care. With the right practices, the fermentation bed can become a cornerstone of modern, eco-friendly pig farming.
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