Analysis of Faecal pH in Piglets from Birth to Weaning

Abstract The health of the gastrointestinal system of pigs is still a topical issue. When focusing on the youngest categories of pigs, we routinely evaluate it on the basis of appetite assessment and physical examination of faeces. A piglet’s gut health is also related to the development and changes of pH in the digestive system. Because there is little scientific work in this area, the aim of this study was to evaluate the physiological range of faecal pH in healthy suckling piglets from birth to weaning. Faecal pH measurements were performed in thirty-five suckling piglets at the time of the piglets’ birth, on the 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th day of their life. We found the mean pH values to be 6.38 ± 0.46 within 24 hours after birth; 7.14 ± 0.23 on the 7th day after birth; 7.23 ± 0.23 on the 14th day after birth; 7.42 ± 0.60 on the 21st day after birth; and 7.72 ± 0.61 on the 28th day after birth. Statistical analysis showed significant differences between the pH of the faeces of new-born piglets and the samples taken in the following weeks of the experiment (P < 0.05; P < 0.01; P < 0.001). Measuring faecal pH can be a simple, quick and inexpensive method used to determine the health status of piglets’ intestines.