Table 4 Perceived importance to 58 Irish farrow-to-finish pig farms of the different preventive measures suggested in the survey to combat biting behaviour in growing pigs

Taking care of animal health

6.35 ± 1.62^a

7 (6)

Restricting animal density

6.26 ± 1.76

7 (1)

Even quality of feed

6.25 ± 1.83

7 (2)

Correct feed content

6.18 ± 1.87

7 (4)

Managing air movements (draughts, cold air pockets-e.g when slurry is low)

6.16 ± 1.86

7 (0)

Managing air quality

6.04 ± 1.69

7 (1)

Appropriate temperature in pen (not too hot or cold)

5.89 ± 2.00

7 (0)

Maintaining enough feeding space (enough space for each pig at the trough)

5.88 ± 1.96

7 (4)

Water available to all pigs

5.77 ± 2.04

7 (6)

Good quality pigs (healthy, evenly grown)

5.12 ± 2.35^b

7 (2)

Use of objects for manipulation

4.74 ± 2.32^b

5 (2)

Managing pen hygiene/cleanliness

4.39 ± 2.68^b

5 (4)

Avoiding mixing of animals

4.00 ± 2.61^b

3 (0)

Knowing the background of the piglet (housing and management in the farrowing unit)

3.56 ± 2.60^b

3 (0)

Adequate light levels

3.28 ± 2.37^b

3 (3)

Adjusting natural light from windows

3.26 ± 2.32^b

3 (3)

Breed of pigs

3.02 ± 2.73^b

2 (4)

Use of bedding type material

2.49 ± 2.48^b

1 (6)

Feeding always at the same time

1.82 ± 2.72^b

1 (0)

Managing noise level

1.70 ± 1.56^b

1 (5)