THE PIGLET’S LUNGS – FULLY ONLY MATURED BY 14 DAYS OF AGE

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The piglet’s lungs – fully only matured by 14 days of age

In normally developing suckling pigs, although a piglet breathes from soon after birth, the lung’s tissue increases its size and function during the first 14 days of life. The oxygen transfer continually improves during this time.

 

Day 2:

Figure 1 Image

 

Day 14:

Figure 2 Image

 

  • Neither lung nor liver tissue are fully matured when piglets are born
  • Colostrum brings life-saving nutrients and protective substances as well as growth promoting elements that support maturation of these and other body organs

Newly born piglets are very sensitive to infections, especially those of the intestine.

Piglets, therefore, should not be unnecessarily stressed during the first weeks of life.