Colibacillosis is another term for scours in pigs.
It is a general intestinal disorder of new-born pigs.
Prevalent during the suckling period.
E. coli seem to be primarily responsible cause, but other bacteria/viruses can cause this disorder.
Signs
- Yellow to white, watery or pasty faeces.
- Tails are wet and hang straight.
- Emaciated, dehydrated, depressed and reluctant to nurse.
May affect the entire litter and pigs that survive from this often become pot-bellied and unthrifty!
Conditions That Can Make Pigs More Susceptible
- Lack of colostrum antibodies.
- Chilling can reduce defence mechanism.
- Insufficient milk nutrients.
- Filth and dampness can lead to the exposure to a large number of microorganisms.
- Iron deficiency anaemia.
Treatment
- Promptly treat with antibacterial drugs as recommended by a well-trained practioner
- Effectiveness of drug(s) may differ from one herd to the next and from one time to the next in the same herd.
Prevention is better than cure
A. Good sanitation programs to reduce the number of E. coli such as:
- Disinfect facilities & equipment,
- Provide adequate ventilation,
- Use an efficient manure removal system.
B. Good nutritional and health programs for the breeding herd, which can lead to the production of vigorous pigs & good milk production.
C. Good management of baby pigs such as:
- Make sure pigs receive colostrum,
- Use a supplemental heater, hover, creep box & others to avoid chilling,
- Be sure to give supplemental iron,
- Minimize stress during processing.
D. If the incidence is high, vaccinate sows and gilts during the late stage of gestation.
Also check our article on pig farming