Production data can improve sow longevity

Animal welfare in gestation and farrowing units is a high priority for most sow producers. A longer production life for sows results in increased profitability for pig producers. Moreover, it is expected that increased sow longevity will improve animal welfare, because underlying causes of mortality and morbidity can be reduced. Longevity is complex to select for because it is very much affected by the environment the sow is in, by different culling strategies and by the type of herd, that is