When is the best time to breed a sow? A detailed explanation of the best time for a gilt's first breeding

SummaryFrom 26-46 hours after the sow begins standing estrus, she will release about 95% of her eggs at the same time, and the eggs' survival time should not exceed 6 hours. Check every day; generally, breeding can be carried out once estrus occurs. A gilt should not be bred during her first estrus; wait until after 2-3 estrus cycles before breeding.

1. The best time to breed a sow

1. Generally, when breeding a sow, you should choose a suitable time so that efficiency is relatively high. Usually, from 26-46 hours after the sow begins standing estrus, she will release about 95% of her eggs at the same time, and the eggs' survival time should not exceed 6 hours. Check every day; breeding can be carried out once estrus occurs. If checking twice a day, breeding can be delayed by half a day.

2. For sows that do not come into estrus, levamisole can be mixed into the feed to deworm the sow, 16 tablets per sow, once a day for 5 consecutive days. Generally, obese sows need their feed reduced by half, and all sows on the farm should be given more green feed. For relatively thin sows, feed more to increase nutrition and improve body condition.

2. When is the best time for a gilt's first breeding

1. Generally, sows can begin to mature at 3-6 months of age, but the maturation time differs by breed. Overall, sows that are still very small are not recommended for breeding, that is, they should not be bred during the first estrus; wait until the 2nd-3rd estrus before breeding.

2. The estrous cycle of a sow averages one estrus every 21 days, and each estrus lasts about 3-5 days. The better breeding time for a young gilt being bred for the first time is generally the first breeding 12 hours after standing still, with a repeat breeding 8-12 hours later. Generally, breeding can be done 10 hours after the standing reflex, then breed once more 8 hours later.

3. Characteristics of the sow's estrous cycle

1. Early estrus: The sow becomes restless, and the vulva swells and changes from pale yellow to red; this change is generally more obvious in replacement gilts. The vagina secretes mucus, and its viscosity begins to increase. During this period, the sow does not allow people to sit on her back. This lasts an average of 2.7 days, and artificial insemination breeding is not recommended.

2. Mid-estrus: This averages 2.5 days. It is characterized by swelling of the sow's vulva while the redness begins to fade, and the secretions become thicker and viscosity begins to increase. At this time, the sow allows back pressure without moving; when pressure is applied to her back, the sow's ears stand upright and point backward, and her hind legs begin to tense.

3. Late estrus: 1-2 days. The vulva of the sow in estrus completely returns to normal, and she no longer allows the boar to mount.

4. Interestrus period: 13-14 days. The sow completely returns to normal. Only during estrus does she allow the boar to mount, or what is called the standing reflex. This sexual behavior can serve as an important indicator for timely insemination of the sow.