CATDOLL : CATDOLL: A guide to feeding and eating sows

Feeding and Dietary Guidelines for Sows

Sow feeding is an important part of the breeding industry, which is directly related to the health of the pig herd and the litter rate. For the diet of sows, we need to provide appropriate feed according to their different stages and needs.

Sow feeding stages

The sow feeding stages are mainly divided into three stages: prenatal, lactation and post-weaning.

• Prenatal period: During the prenatal period, sows need high-quality feed to meet the needs of the fetus. Mainly high-protein, low-fiber, high-energy feed, such as soybean meal, wheat bran, etc. At this time, the feed intake should be moderate to prevent obesity from having adverse effects on litter size.
• Lactation: During the lactation period, the sow's needs will increase greatly. The sow needs a lot of feed to meet the needs of itself and the piglets being breastfed. At this time, feed rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin salts, mineral mixed feed, etc., can be appropriately added.
• After weaning: After weaning, sows need to gradually adjust the type and amount of feed to adapt to the new growth state. At this time, you can give an appropriate amount of complete feed, such as corn, soybean meal, etc.

Feed ration for sows

The feed ration for sows needs to be determined based on factors such as their body weight, breeding stage, production performance and surrounding environment.

• Weight: Lighter sows require less feed, while heavier sows require more feed.
• Feeding stage: Sows at different feeding stages require different feed ratios to meet their needs.
• Production performance: Factors such as litter size and weight at weaning will also affect feed rations.
• Surrounding environment: Ambient temperature, humidity, etc. will also affect the sow's diet and need to be adjusted reasonably.

Matters needing attention in breeding management

In the breeding and management of sows, there are some matters that need special attention:

• Feed quality: The quality of feed directly affects the health and production performance of sows. Therefore, high-quality feed should be selected and the nutrient content in the feed should be tested regularly.
• Feeding environment: Sows need a clean, ventilated and temperature-appropriate feeding environment to keep the feeding house clean.
• Drinking water: Sows need plenty of clean drinking water, keep the trough clean.
• Disease prevention and control: Regularly check the health status of sows to prevent and control the occurrence of common diseases.

Through reasonable feeding management and scientific dietary guidelines, the production performance and health status of sows can be improved, contributing to the development of the breeding industry.

Thank you for reading this article, I hope it helps you understand how to raise and care for sows.