Diarrhea is one of the most common disorders of the gastrointestinal tract in piglets. Do not delay with its treatment. Very often because of the parasitic diseases and a decrease in the overall resistance of the organism diarrhea can be accompanied by infectious pathologies. The ability to accurately and timely identify the causes of diarrhea will help prevent negative consequences.

— What is the main cause of diarrhea in piglets?

— Diarrhea is a pathological condition when due to impairment of the motile, suction or secretory functions of the intestine liquid and frequent defecation is appeared. The main cause of diarrhea is imbalance of the intestinal microflora (dysbacteriosis). Both beneficial and pathogenic bacteria are essential for the proper functioning of the digestive system. They help to digest food releasing nutrients. However, any changes in the intestines can weaken this balance and lead to a violation of the secretion of enzymes and electrolytes in it.

— How does diarrhea affect the health and performance of piglets?

— Diarrhea significantly reduces the ability to absorb nutrients. If the organism doesn’t get them with food to ensure normal life activity, it begins to spend its own reserves. Therefore, instead of actively growth piglets lose their weight because of diarrhea.

— What are the types of diarrhea?

— Depending on the pathogen several types of diarrhea are distinguished. Most often bacterial diarrhea can be caused by E. coli, Salmonella, Campylobacter also by causative agents of dysentery (Brachyspira hyodysenteriae) and proliferative enteropathy (Lawsonia intracellularis).

1. How to identify the acute or chronic form of this disease?

2. What is the typical appearance and the course of disease in piglets?

3. What will help to treat the diarrhea?

4. Is there any antibiotics that can be used in the treatment?

5. What should we do to prevent the disease?

Answers to these and other questions are to be found in the full version of the article in the journal «Profitable Pig Production» No. 38 (No. 2, April 2017)