Pneumonia in pigs: what to know

Affected pigs may cough, breathe quickly or with effort, show nasal discharge, fever, reduced appetite, listlessness or poor growth. Some infections move rapidly through a pen, while dust, poor ventilation, crowding, transport stress and sudden temperature changes can make respiratory illness worse. Several viruses and bacteria may be involved, so appearance alone cannot identify the cause. A veterinarian may examine several animals, check temperature and breathing, and recommend samples or a post-mortem examination.

Separate visibly ill pigs where practical, keep them warm and dry, and provide easy access to clean water and feed. Improve airflow without creating drafts, reduce dust, and clean equipment between groups. Record which animals are affected and when signs began. Call the herd veterinarian before giving medication; the correct drug, dose, withdrawal period and route depend on the diagnosis and local rules. Do not move or sell sick animals until veterinary advice is obtained.

Call urgently when a pig is struggling to breathe, collapses, cannot stand, stops drinking, develops grey or blue mucous membranes, or when several pigs become ill over a short period. Sudden deaths, severe weakness or a rapidly expanding outbreak may signal a serious infection, including sepsis, and need immediate herd-level advice. Follow local animal-health reporting requirements if the veterinarian advises it.

Ask which animals should be examined, whether testing is needed, how to isolate the group, and what environmental changes may help. Discuss vaccination history, recent transport, feed or housing changes, prior medicines and safe treatment of pen mates.