An Examination of

stillborn piglets To enable accurate analysis of performance figures, it is essential to differentiate between those piglets which die in the intrapartum period, and those which die either pre- or post partum. Diagnosis through gross examination Prepartum deaths Intrapartum and post partum deaths The intrapartum piglet is wet and cyanotic, particularly around the face. The presence of meconium on the skin of the piglet may be a useful guide, the skin may even be yellow from meconium staining. Mummified piglets are easily recognised by their appearance. A prevalence figure of less than 1 per cent of total born can be classified as within the normal range. Other prepartum deaths occur within a few days of parturition but have not had time to undergo autolysis. This is normally around 15 per cent of 'stillbirths ' Randal (1972). These can be difficult to diagnose from the intrapartum deaths if they die within 48 hours of parturition. Examination of the eye for corneal blueing will gener-ally prove to be diagnostic of a piglet which has died in the pre-partum period. Further post mort-em examinations 9-will reveal autolytic changes indicative of death in excess of 24 hours. The presence of amniotic membranes around the face of the piglet does not on its own indicate intrapartum death, other signs must be also assessed. In one study 2 per cents of piglets were born within the amnion and six out of seven piglets were able to break free (English and others 1977). John Walton qualified from Edinburgh in 1960. He has worked in general practice and held various research posts both in the UK and USA. He gained a diploma in pig medicine in 1984 and currently heads the division of farm animal studies at th