Suckling piglets represent a critical growth phase in swine development, characterized by the fastest growth rates, highest feed efficiency, and greatest economic returns. Scientific feeding during this stage involves tailoring management practices to the unique physiological needs of piglets, aiming to maximize weight gain, litter size, survival rate, and overall health. This lays a solid foundation for their future growth and performance. To achieve these goals, farmers should focus on the following seven key aspects, drawing from best practices observed in successful pig farming operations.
First, it's essential to ensure that piglets consume colostrum as soon as possible after birth—ideally within the first three hours. Colostrum is rich in proteins, fats, vitamins, and antibodies, which are crucial for the newborn’s immune system. It also contains higher levels of magnesium, aiding in the elimination of meconium, and has a more acidic composition that supports digestive tract activity. Since piglets are born without natural immunity, early access to colostrum is vital for their survival and long-term health.
Second, piglets should be encouraged to latch onto specific teats quickly. Sows typically only produce milk for 10 to 20 seconds per teat, so if piglets don’t settle on a particular one, competition may arise, leading to uneven growth and even death among weaker individuals. By day two, each piglet should be assigned a specific teat, with smaller or weaker ones placed near the front. The sow’s udder should be massaged before feeding, and the breeder should manually lift any teats that are pressed down to help the piglets locate them.
Third, maintaining proper temperature and insulation is crucial. Newborn piglets require an environment around 32°C, while those over two months old need about 22°C. Cold temperatures can lead to hypothermia, poor movement, and reduced milk intake, increasing the risk of starvation or disease. To prevent this, avoid placing sows on concrete floors. Instead, use straw bedding and provide additional heat sources like infrared lamps or heating pads, especially in colder seasons. Also, ensure that piglets have access to warm, safe areas where they can rest and nurse comfortably.
Fourth, iron supplementation is necessary to prevent anemia. Piglets are born with limited iron stores and require about 7–8 mg daily, but they only receive 1 mg through their mother’s milk. Deficiency can lead to weakness, poor growth, and even death. A common method is to mix ferrous sulfate and copper sulfate in water and offer it twice daily, or inject dextran iron-cobalt solution at 3 and 10 days of age.
Fifth, early feeding should begin around day seven. Introduce small amounts of cooked soybeans or wheat in areas where piglets frequently move, allowing them to eat freely. Alternatively, prepare a thin paste using sugar water and compound feed and apply it to the piglets’ lips to encourage them to start eating.
Sixth, piglets should be introduced to clean drinking water from day five onward. Their bodies require about 20% of their body weight in water daily, and without access, they may drink contaminated water, leading to illness. Provide fresh, clean water in a designated tank to promote healthy hydration.
Finally, maintaining good hygiene and disease prevention is essential. Clean the housing regularly to keep it dry and sanitary, and ensure a quiet, well-ventilated environment. Monitor piglets closely for signs of illness, such as diarrhea, and treat promptly. Vaccinate piglets according to local guidelines after 30 days of age to protect against infectious diseases.
By focusing on these seven key areas, farmers can significantly improve the health, growth, and survival of their suckling piglets, setting them up for success in later stages of development.
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