Sunburn is a problem for pigs of all ages worldwide. It is most serious in young pigs but may occur in adults. Effects are red tender skin, refusal to mate, abortion, embryo losses.
Causes of Sunburn
Sunburn is common when white pigs are exposed to the sun for the first time. It is most serious in young pigs but may occur in adults. The effects are entirely due to the ultraviolet component of sunlight which causes the damage to the skin and gives rise to inflammation followed by necrosis and scabbing.
Effects of Sunburn
White pigs or pigs with white patches are most seriously affected. The animals may have been put outdoors in the sun without shade or a period of dull weather may have prevented exposure to the sun. The white parts of the body become reddened, oedematous and irritable and the animals appear to be in pain. The pain produced may be sufficient to prevent mating and the prostaglandin release may result in resorption of embryos and return to service. Some degree of sunburn may occur in sows kept outdoors even when shade is available, but it rarely goes beyond rescued ning of the skin.
Diagnosis of Sunburn
Inspection of the pig confirms that it is white and that exposure of the skin to ultraviolet radiation has occurred. The presence of rescued ning blistering and peeling of skin on the dorsal surface and flanks is very suggestive and a history of exposure to sunlight provides confirmation. Few conditions can be confused with sunburn. Photosensitisation parsnip or celery to leave may be confused with this condition. The effects of heat exposure alone are different as they do not involve the epidermis.
Treatment & Control of Sunburn
Pigs with sunburn should be given shade and access to a wallow. This will allow cooling. It may be possible to coat the skin in neutral oil to reduce the burning. Animals in pain should not be mated as mating is unlikely to be successful. Ensure that pigmented breeds such as Duroc are used outdoors so that sunburn does not occur.
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