PORK INFORMATION GATEWAY SPOTLIGHT 

Solving Tail-biting Problems
--Todd See

Outbreaks of tailbiting occur in intensive pork production when a pig bites or chews on another pigs tail leading to a wound and bleeding. This abnormal social behavior is usually associated with deficiencies in the pigs environment, management or nutrition.
 
To solve a tail-biting problem promptly remove and treat the tail-bitten pig(s). Then review the following questions and determine the most likely causes. If tail-biting continues check other likely causes until the problem disappears.

Environmental causes of tail-biting:
     • Is the building temperature appropriate for the age and weight of the 
       pigs?
     • Is the ventilation system functioning properly?
     • Are pigs following appropriate dunging behavior?
     • Is the building air quality (ammonia and hydrogen sulfide levels)         
       satisfactory?
     • Are pens dry?

Management causes of tail-biting:
     • Are pigs overcrowded?
     • Can pigs lie comfortably?
     • Has mixing of pigs between pens occurred?
     • Is the electrical supply properly grounded and stray voltage 
       eliminated?

Nutritional causes of tail-biting:
     • Was the feed properly formulated for levels of salt and other 
       vitamins and minerals?
     • Are there a sufficient number of drinkers with adequate flow rate per 
       pen?
     • Is there adequate feeder space?