
Sow
Purpose:
Breeding sows and boars require special feed to ensure successful reproduction, as well as proper health for both the sow and her piglets.
Nutritional Content:
- Protein: 14–18% depending on the stage of reproduction.
- Energy: Balanced to maintain body condition and ensure successful conception and pregnancy.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Higher levels of calcium and phosphorus to support lactation and bone health.
- Fiber: Higher fiber content to help sows feel full and maintain optimal weight during gestation.
Common Ingredients in Pig Feed
- Grains: Corn, wheat, barley, and sorghum for energy.
- Protein Sources: Soybean meal, canola meal, and dried distillers grains for protein.
- Fats: Vegetable oils, animal fats, or grains for added calories.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Essential for overall health, reproduction, and immunity.
- Additives: Probiotics, enzymes, and growth promoters (in certain cases) to improve feed efficiency and digestion.
Feeding Management Tips for Pigs
Feeding Frequency:
- Piglets should be fed 3–4 times a day, transitioning to twice-daily feeding as they grow.
- Provide fresh water at all times, as pigs can consume large quantities of water, especially during warmer weather.
Feed Storage:
- Store feed in dry, cool conditions to maintain its quality.
- Protect it from contamination, mold, and pests.
Transition Between Feed Stages:
- Gradually introduce new feed types as pigs age to avoid digestive upset.
Sample Pig Feed Ration (Finisher Stage)
Ingredient | Amount per 100 lbs |
---|---|
Corn | 60–65 lbs |
Soybean Meal | 25–30 lbs |
Wheat Bran | 5–10 lbs |
Limestone (Calcium) | 1.5 lbs |
Dicalcium Phosphate (Phosphorus) | 1 lb |
Salt | 0.25–0.5 lbs |
Vitamin and Mineral Premix | 0.5–1 lb |
Why Proper Pig Feed is Important
- Optimal Growth: Well-balanced feed ensures that pigs grow at the desired rate, improving production efficiency.
- Health: Proper nutrition supports a strong immune system, preventing diseases and promoting overall well-being.
- Feed Conversion Efficiency: A good feeding program leads to better feed conversion ratios, meaning pigs use less feed to achieve desired growth
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