Effects of meloxicam and caffeine co-administration on sow farrowing, colostrum quality and piglet performance in smallholder systems

Abstract In swine production, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as meloxicam and stimulants like caffeine have been investigated for their effects on productivity at farrowing. Meloxicam reduces fever and pain linked to mastitis-metritis, while caffeine enhances neonatal vitality and growth. This study evaluated their combined administration before farrowing, focusing on pain-related behaviours, colostrum quality, and piglet growth. A total of 150 piglets from smallholder systems were assigned to three treatments (NaCl, meloxicam, or meloxicam with caffeine). Results showed higher colostrum IgG in sows treated with both substances, and piglets from meloxicam and meloxicam + caffeine groups were significantly heavier at weaning. However, more pain behaviours and stillbirths were noted in the combined group, suggesting possible adverse effects on sow comfort. Further research with larger samples is needed to balance productivity gains and animal welfare outcomes.