Large quantities of straw at farrowing prevents bruising and increases weight gain in piglets.

Highlights: [•] Strategic use of large quantities of straw effectively prevents piglets from developing skin abrasions and claw lesions. [•] The overall prevalence of skin and claw lesions was reduced by at least 50% in STRAW compared to CONTROL piglets. [•] Average daily weight gain until 5 days of age increased by 25g in the STRAW treatment. [•] Mean body weight at weaning increased by 0.33 kg. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]