Finishing pigs represent a critical stage in pig farming, where they are most resilient to environmental fluctuations and serve as the final growth phase before market readiness. The performance of these pigs directly impacts the profitability of the farm. However, many farms tend to overlook the management of finishing pigs, focusing instead on sows, breeding stock, or weanlings. As a result, finishing facilities are often the least equipped, with minimal feed quality and, in some cases, even moldy feed is used. This can lead to slower growth rates and higher disease incidence among finishing pigs.
Currently, two main categories of diseases affect finishing pigs: respiratory disease syndromes and various forms of diarrhea, such as colitis, swine dysentery, ileitis, and salmonella enteritis. Other conditions like classical swine fever, toxoplasmosis, and atrophic rhinitis may also appear in certain farms. Poor management during this stage not only affects the sale of pigs but can also create a cycle of recurring health issues that are hard to control.
To avoid losses, it's crucial to pay close attention to the feeding and management of finishing pigs. Feed costs for growing pigs make up nearly 70% of total feed expenses, making efficient feed use essential. However, finishing pigs have high nutritional needs due to rapid growth, and their internal organs may not develop in sync with their body size. If nutrition is inadequate, immunity can be compromised, especially during transport when feed intake decreases. In such cases, vitamin supplementation becomes particularly important.
The feed conversion rate during the finishing phase directly influences overall farm economics. Cheaper feed doesn't always mean more savings if it lacks quality or contains mycotoxins. Poor-quality feed can hinder growth and reduce economic returns, so maintaining feed quality is vital.
Implementing an all-in, all-out feeding model is key to disease prevention. While many farms follow this model, overstocking or leaving pigs behind can create disease cycles, as leftover pigs may carry pathogens that infect new groups. Proper implementation of all-in, all-out helps break infection chains and reduces unnecessary losses.
Humanized management is also gaining traction in pig farming. Pigs are intelligent animals, and providing them with a comfortable environment improves their productivity and feed efficiency. Maintaining proper stocking density is essential—too high a density increases fighting and disease transmission, especially for respiratory diseases like PRRSV. A well-managed density can reduce disease spread and improve farm efficiency.
Good ventilation is crucial, as air quality directly affects respiratory health. Dust and ammonia levels must be controlled to prevent illness. During hot weather, cooling methods like water curtains, roof sprays, or shade nets can enhance pig comfort and increase feed intake.
Feed trough design and water availability also play a role. Poorly designed equipment can lead to feed wastage, while inadequate water access can cause stress and reduced performance. Ensuring clean, accessible water is just as important as feed supply.
In terms of medication, it's essential to follow legal guidelines and avoid overuse or misuse of drugs. Strategic use of antibiotics, such as adding chlortetracycline or doxycycline to feed, can help manage infections and reduce disease occurrence. After transportation, pigs should be given electrolyte solutions to boost their immunity. Regular medication schedules can also help prevent respiratory and gastrointestinal issues, ensuring uniform growth and better economic outcomes.
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