Evaluation of the awareness and practices of farmers on gastric ulceration in pigs in the Oyo State​, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Gastric ulceration has been identified as a significant problem affecting pigs worldwide causing economic losses and is of a welfare concern. Limited information was available on the awareness of farmers of gastric ulcers and the exposure of pigs to some identified predisposing factors. This study sought to fill this information gap. Methods: Data were collected from 148 registered pig farmers in 12 local government areas of Oyo state using structured questionnaires. On-site assessment of farms’ facilities and management practices was done to determine the level of exposure of pigs to known predisposing factors. Results: Most (84.5%) of the farmers were males with the majority (89.2%) being Christians. The scale of production was mostly (71%) between 50-150 pigs, while many (52.7%) had farming experience of over 5 years. Most (83.1%) of the farmers were aware of the occurrence of gastric ulcers in humans while only 23% were aware that pigs were affected. A high proportion (69%) of the farmers formulated their feeds based on their discretion while some (28.4%) used standard formula. A high proportion (62.2%) of farmers were utilizing mixed sized particles while 33.1% farmers were using finely grounded grains with most farmers (84%) feeding 1-2 times daily. Only 12.2% farmers evaluated water quality parameters with some (9.5%) sourcing water from streams. Farm design and facilities supported manual processes of feeding (100%), watering (60.8%) and sorting (85.8%). Restraints were mostly (96%) dependent on physical methods. Conclusion: This study showed that the awareness of gastric ulceration in pigs among farmers in the Oyo state was limited and pigs were consistently exposed to predisposing factors such as fine feed particles, unhygienic water, and stressful handling.