Split Weaning
Wean heavier half of the litter 2 to 3 d before weaning the remainder (Stevenson & Britt, 1981; Britt & Levis, 1982; Cox & Britt, 1983; Rojkittikhun et al., 1991; 21 to 28 d lactations).
Reducing the number of teats suckled increases GnRH and LH secretion and speeds return to estrus but, the 2 to 3 d interval may be critical.
Experimental data on the effect of split weaning during short lactations is lacking but, some early weaned feeder pig producers practice it.