Swine Artificial Insemination

Summary

This video provides an in-depth look at artificial insemination (AI) techniques in swine, highlighting its advantages for producers, such as improved reproductive efficiency, increased genetic quality, and better record-keeping. The process focuses on properly inserting catheters, like spiral and foam tip types, to effectively deposit semen in the sow's cervix while avoiding complications. A trained technician demonstrates the technique, emphasizing the importance of proper placement and post-insemination care to maximize success rates. Overall, the video serves as a comprehensive guide to implementing AI for enhanced breeding outcomes in swine.

Takeaways

• 😀 AI in swine can enhance reproductive efficiency, leading to higher farrowing rates and reduced non-productive breeding days.
• 😀 Implementing AI allows producers to access superior genetic material by sourcing semen from high-quality boars.
• 😀 AI improves record-keeping, enabling accurate tracking of breeding dates and better scheduling for farrowing.
• 😀 Greater 'boar power' is achieved through AI, as one boar can service multiple sows, maximizing breeding efficiency.
• 😀 The two main catheter types used in AI are the spiral tip catheter and the foam tip catheter, each with distinct advantages.
• 😀 Proper catheter insertion is crucial; it should be done at an upward angle to avoid misdirecting into the urinary bladder.
• 😀 The spiral tip catheter requires rotation during insertion, while the foam tip catheter locks into place without rotation.
• 😀 During insemination, the semen bag should be elevated to promote better flow into the sow's reproductive tract.
• 😀 Massaging the sow's back flank during the procedure simulates natural mating and aids in hormone release for better sperm transport.
• 😀 After insemination, the catheter straw should be tied off to prevent semen loss, and the sow should remain standing to ensure successful breeding.

Q & A

What is the primary purpose of the video?

The primary purpose of the video is to present appropriate methods for artificial insemination (AI) in swine.

What are the benefits of implementing an AI program on a farm?

Implementing an AI program can increase reproductive efficiency, improve farrowing rates, reduce non-productive breeding days, and allow for the genetic improvement of the herd.

How does AI improve genetic merit on a farm?

AI allows producers to source semen from boars with superior genetics, enabling them to enhance the genetic quality of their breeding herd.

What is 'boar power' in the context of AI?

'Boar power' refers to the number of females that can be serviced by a single boar through AI, which is enhanced by extending the boar's ejaculate for use with multiple females.

What are the different types of catheters used in AI?

The main types of catheters used in AI are spiral tip catheters and foam tip catheters. Deep insemination catheters are used for post-cervical AI.

What is the difference between cervical AI and post-cervical AI?

In cervical AI, semen is deposited in the cervix, while in post-cervical AI, semen is deposited directly into the uterine body.

What technique should be used when inserting the catheter into the sow?

The catheter should be inserted at an upward angle to avoid entering the urinary bladder and to ensure proper placement in the cervix.

What is the significance of massaging the sow during insemination?

Massaging the sow simulates the presence of a boar, helping to release hormones that promote semen flow and enhance sperm transport for fertilization.

What should be done with the empty straw after insemination?

The empty straw should be tied off and left in place for a few extra minutes to prevent any post-AI semen loss.

Why is it important for the sow to remain standing during insemination?

It is crucial for the sow to remain standing during the entire insemination process to maximize the success of AI and minimize semen loss.