Farrowing[1]

When the dam is near delivery, she will develop a milk line along her teats. She will likely become restless and/or show nesting behavior. A suitable farrowing location should be provided for the sow, it should be lightly padded with small blankets or a similar soft bedding that the dam can rearrange, and that is large enough for her and her offspring to freely move around. The farrowing box should be placed away from any drafts or other pets. The size of the litter is greatly variable (between 1 and 12 piglets). The dam should be closely observed during farrowing to help ensure she does not lay on the piglets. Special attention should be given to gilts as they will occasionally attack the piglets. Whatever the age of the dam, it should be noted that she can become very protective of her offspring and may show aggression towards the owner.

If the afterbirth does not pass in a timely manner, it likely indicates a retained piglet. More than 15 minutes between piglets raises concerns for stillborns. If an hour or more passes between delivery of each piglet, this is a dystocia and assistance should be provided.[2] The last placenta should pass within 24 hours of the last piglet, longer than this and it is considered retained.[3]