umbilical cord length

[PattySh]

Charlotte had piglets again this morning. She had 13, 1 was stillborn, so she's got 12 nice little piggies. Of course she had them in 17degree weather. I nearly froze my tush off but lots of dry towels and a heat lamp is a lifesaver for the piglets. They are currently running around, I can see them on the video monitor. This is her 3rd litter and I've always left the cords as they delivered and sprayed with iodine. Did the same today (4 am delivery!) but wondered if I had shortened the cords the piglets would have warmed faster than with the wet cord dangling. Not sure if it matters or not. Most of the cords were about a foot long. Alnother thing is that I had them in a laundry basket while she delivered and they were stepping all over the cords which was concerning. Am sure they are dried up well now but for next time should I have shortened the cords? I also left their eyeteeth which I normally clip, too tired and no help at the delivery.

 

[fair weather chicken]

but of course it was 17 degrees you expected it to be warmer. lol i wouldn't worry to much about the umbilical being to long. if they haven't hurt themselves everything is ok. ours farrow with little help. although we did lose a litter last march. a puddle in the stall and of course that was where the little ones landed. eye teeth we usually clip about 6-8 hours after birth.

 

[Cornish Heritage]

Don't worry about it. Our sows farrow with very little help from us. We do not dip the cords in iodine or cut them - just let the mama do her job. As long as they have milk & warmth they will do fine. Even if it is cold, if possible they like to be able to get out in the sunshine once they are a couple days old. Really helps them. Once they've had enough they will head back to that heat lamp.

We have never clipped tails or teeth - it is really not necessary in a non-confinement situation. I know there are many folks who disagree but that's OK - I'm just sharing what we do here on the farm. 12 is a great size litter - hope they all do well for you.

Liz