170 SOUTHERN PORK PRODUCTION 



Among other changes the udder becomes congested and 

 swollen. At first the secretion is waxy, but it later de- 

 velops into colostrum and then to normal milk. Just 

 prior to delivery the belly sinks and seemingly enlarges. 

 The vulva becomes congested and swollen and quite 

 elastic, capable of being widely distended. The cartilagi- 

 nous connections between the bones, especially bones 

 near the pelvic region, become very elastic. An uneasi- 

 ness and restlessness are experienced. Seclusion is gen- 

 erally sought and an attempt is often made to make a 

 rather elaborate bed. The gestation ceases with the ex- 

 pulsion of the embryos during labor, which normally 

 results involuntarily from violent abdominal muscular 

 exertions and certain other physiological activities. In 

 some instances it may be necessary to provide assistance 

 to farrowing sows. This is because difficult farrowing 

 is frequently encountered, which may result disastrously 

 to both the sow and the pigs. High condition, disease, 

 weakness, wrong presentation, injury and abnormalities 

 may cause these difficulties. Aid is imperative in cases 

 where much difficulty is experienced, and it often be- 

 comes necessary to assist in removal of the pigs by 

 means of pig forceps, which may be of various types 

 and makes. 



The sows should be watched carefully as the farrow- 

 ing date approaches. About 112 days from service she 

 may be expected to farrow. In the colder months the 

 farrowing should take place under shelter, preferably 

 in a well-lighted ventilated and roomy farrowing pen. 

 The herdsman should watch all his sows carefully dur- 

 ing farrowing time, but should not interfere in the least 

 unless it becomes necessary. Soon after the pigs have 



