Diagnosis > Pig

Non-feed sources of mycotoxins
It is generally assumed that feed-borne mycotoxins are the sole source of contamination. Housing of pigs on straw is common in many countries because of its perceived benefits to animal welfare and environmental concerns. The consumption of straw is considerable and has been estimated to be between 10 and 15% of total feed intake in weaned pigs, and even higher in sows. If the straw is contaminated with mycotoxins, then pigs on straw bedding may be at risk of increased mycotoxin ingestion. In a recent Australian study , over 80% of straw samples examined were positive for mycotoxins. Indeed, in one study, adding a mycotoxin sequestering agent to the diet of pigs kept on straw bedding, improved growth rate [Moore, D.D. (2005). Mycotoxins in straw used in deep-litter pig housing. In: 'Manipulating Pig Production X. Proceedings of the Tenth Biennial Conference of the Australian Pig Swine Association (APSA)'. Edited by J.E. Paterson; p 251. APSA, Werribee, Australia]. This highlights the potential risk that straw and other material used for bedding poses to pigs and the urgent need for appropriate preventative action.