What works best for piglet nests?

Piglets need warmth from the first minute

Newborn piglets are born wet, with little body fat and a limited ability to regulate their own body temperature. For this reason, piglets need an environmental temperature of around 34–35°C immediately after birth. They will actively search for warmth and show clear signs when conditions are not optimal.

To prevent piglets from becoming chilled and to reduce the risk of crushing, the piglet nest must be heated in time, before birth, and for a sufficiently long period. Switching off heating too early is a common mistake and can quickly lead to problems in the first week after birth.

Using heat lamps in the piglet nest

Heat lamps are widely used in piglet nests and can be very effective when managed correctly. In practice, heat lamps are often switched off after just two or three days. However, piglets still benefit from additional warmth beyond this period, especially when their ability to regulate body temperature is still developing.

Rather than switching the lamp off suddenly, it is better to reduce heating gradually. This can be done by adjusting the height of the lamp, allowing piglets to adapt while still having access to warmth when needed.

Let piglet behavior guide you

Although temperature guidelines are useful, piglet behavior remains the most reliable indicator of whether the nest climate is correct. Daily observation is essential, particularly in the first days after birth.

• Piglets lying on top of each other indicate that the nest is too cold.
• Piglets lying far apart or avoiding the nest indicate that it is too warm.
• Piglets lying neatly next to each other show that the ideal climate has been reached.

By responding to these signals, heating can be adjusted accurately and in time.

Make the piglet nest attractive

Heating is only effective if piglets choose to use the nest. A good piglet nest is warm, dry, clean and clearly separated from the sow area. Nest covers or hoods help to retain heat and create a stable microclimate, while also reducing drafts. The piglet nest should also be cleaned whenever it becomes dirty, to maintain also good hygiene.

Whether using heat lamps, heated floors, or a combination of both, the goal is to create a comfortable resting area that keeps piglets safely away from the sow.

A good start makes the difference

Successful piglet nest heating is not about complex technology, but about attention and consistency. By observing piglets closely and adjusting heating gradually, you can prevent chilling, reduce early losses, and give piglets the best possible start in life.

A warm, comfortable piglet nest remains one of the simplest and most effective tools for improving piglet health and performance.