(354) The piglet is born with no anus externally because it has developed a blind end to its rectum 5-10mm from the exterior, inside the pelvis. The incidence in the mature herd is usually less than 0.5% but it can be much higher in newly established gilt herds. The condition is heritable but of low penetrance. In a problem herd records will indicate whether there is an incriminating boar involved. The condition is self limiting in that death invariably ensues. It is not worth attempting surgical repair because the artificial opening closes again. Make sure the female is mated to a different boar for the next litter.
