As pregnant sows prepare for birth, the farmer must watch her very closely to ensure that she and her piglets are safe. A sow will normally have about 12 piglets but sometimes she can have more! Good hygiene helps to prevent sickness. So the farmer cleans and disinfects the farrowing shed before the sow moves in. Pregnant sows are kept comfortable in the farrowing shed and are not disturbed by other pigs on the farm. As soon as new piglets are born, they will walk over to one of the teats on their mother's stomach and start drinking milk. Piglets need to be kept warm so a heat lamp is put into the farrowing shed.