Claw health may not be the first thing producers think about when evaluating sow performance, but researchers say it can have a significant impact on longevity, productivity, and overall herd performance. Many of the factors that ultimately lead to a sow leaving the herd begin developing long before obvious signs appear. Issues such as mobility challenges and claw lesions often develop gradually and may go unnoticed until they become severe enough to result in culling.
According to research cited by Sara Weiland, a swine global research and technical services associate with Zinpro, sows with strong foot structure and no signs of lameness average about four and a half litters during their productive lives. By comparison, lame sows average fewer than three litters. That difference highlights the economic value of maintaining sow longevity and addressing problems before they affect performance.
One of the biggest concerns is claw lesions, which are a leading contributor to lameness. Weiland said these lesions are often difficult to detect without regular observation and evaluation. As a result, producers may not recognize a problem until a sow begins showing signs of lameness.
Research has shown that claw health can influence more than mobility. Weiland said claw lesions can affect overall productivity long before visible signs of lameness appear. Identifying issues early allows producers to intervene before performance declines and before culling becomes necessary.
The relationship between claw health and performance extends to reproductive measures as well. Weiland said sows with lower claw lesion scores tend to produce more total pigs per litter and more pigs born alive, while also experiencing fewer stillborn pigs. Those findings suggest that improving claw integrity can benefit both longevity and production.
Nutrition is one management tool that can help support claw health and resilience over time.
Weiland said maintaining claw health through proper management and nutrition can help reduce the risk of severe lesions, support mobility, and improve overall sow performance. By focusing on early detection and prevention, producers may be able to keep productive animals in the herd longer while improving lifetime output and reproductive success.
