The journey of a piglet from birth to maturity is filled with transitions, the most significant of which occurs at weaning. This phase inherently stresses piglets due to their abrupt separation from their mothers, the transition from a milk-based diet to solid food, alterations in their living environment, relocation to new facilities, and potential exposure to diverse and unfamiliar pathogens.¹ Given these challenges, setting piglets up for success post-weaning is paramount. 

Delving into this transitional phase, the environment in which piglets are raised plays a crucial role in providing the piglets a greater start. Studies have shown, for example that environmental management, including factors like supplemental heat, housing, and thermal environmental conditions (such as temperature, airspeed, and relative humidity), can significantly influence pig health, growth, and mortality post-weaning.² 

Moving to a nutritional perspective, the piglets' prior feed experiences at the sow farm are also of importance. As an example, research has probed into the effects of providing supplemental liquid feed before weaning on the intake of feed post-weaning.³ Such studies indicate that pre-weaning liquid feed can reduce the delay before initial post-weaning feed consumption. Thus, understanding piglets' prior feeding experiences also enables producers to design appropriate feeding strategies to encourage early post-weaning feed consumption.

In addition to considering feeding strategies, it's imperative to be aware of the pathogens that piglets might have been exposed to in the farrowing room before transitioning to the nursery. This is essential since neonates are especially vulnerable to certain infections.⁴ By identifying these pathogens, producers can initiate targeted preventive measures. Such proactive approaches not only reduce disease outbreaks but also minimize antibiotic use, allay concerns regarding antimicrobial resistance, and optimize overall piglet performance. Furthermore, maintaining records of these pathogen exposures is a cornerstone of traceability, reinforcing sustainable and profitable farming practices.

Another aspect to evaluate is the source of the piglets. Were they all from a single source or mixed with piglets from various origins? Co-mingling can intensify the risk of disease transmission and amplify stress levels in piglets. Producers must be aware of this history and take steps to counteract the negative implications of such co-mingling. Also, understanding the local prevalence of certain diseases or pathogens can help in implementing robust biosecurity measures, ensuring the health of piglets post-weaning.

Central to these discussions is the critical field of immunology. Differentiating between mucosal and systemic immunity is fundamental when preparing piglets for post-weaning success. Mucosal immunity shields piglets from pathogens, especially in vulnerable areas like the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts. With weaning bringing about dietary and environmental changes, this immunity, marked by the production of secretory IgA antibodies and mucin, becomes indispensable in defending against enteric diseases. Systemic immunity, on the other hand, offers a broader defense mechanism, including the action of circulating antibodies like IgG. Given the particular vulnerability of a weaning piglet's gut, the importance of a strong mucosal immunity cannot be overstated, promising benefits in the longer term.⁵

To sum up, the post-weaning journey of piglets is an intricate weave of environmental, dietary, and immunological threads. Each element, from their initial environment to early feeding experiences, significantly influences their health trajectory. A deep understanding and effective management of these factors not only foster proactive disease control but also set the foundation for piglets to thrive post-weaning. Producers who adopt this comprehensive approach are better equipped to guarantee the best outcomes for their piglets, highlighting the core of sustainable and profitable farming.