<%@LANGUAGE="JavaScript1.3"%> Swine Production Management - Gestation - Condition scores of Sows and Boars
   

Condition Scores of Sows and Boars

 

Illustration of pictures of condition score of sows

Body score calculator spreadsheet
  • Only animals with a condition score greater than 3 should be considered fit for human consumption.
  • Shape and covering determine condition scores

Score Number

Condition

Description

Shape of body

5

Overfat

Hips and backbone heavily covered

Bulbous 

4

Fat

Hips and backbone cannot be felt

Tending to bulge 

3.5

Good condition

Hips and backbone only felt with difficulty

Tube shape 

 

3

Normal

Hips and backbone only felt with firm palm pressure

Tube shaped

 

2.5

Somewhat thin

Hips and backbone felt without palm pressure

Tube shaped but flat (slab) sides  

2

Thin

Hips and backbone noticeable and easily felt

Ribs and spine can be felt 

1

Emaciated

Hips and backbone visible

Bone structure apparent (ribs and backbone)

Condition scores from left to right, 1: 2: 3: 4: 5

From Diseases of Swine 7th Edition (1992)
  • Back fat meter may be more useful. However, note condition score and back fat correlation differs between different breeds.

Illustration of pictures of condition score of sows