Feeding Methods to Make Pigs Grow Fast in Summer
Summer is a season that many pig farmers dislike. During this period, various diseases are extremely likely to occur, and the pigs' feed intake will also change, as if their growth is being suppressed, causing financial losses for farmers. In fact, summer is a great time to fatten up pigs. Below, Qinnong Web will teach everyone how to make the most of this period.
1. Ventilation and Cooling
In summer, pigs refusing to eat is mostly caused by high temperatures. If you control the temperature well, the pigs will eat more, and in summer pigs digest very quickly. The most basic method is to choose a site that does not get prolonged direct sunlight when selecting the location, though artificial cooling is also possible. Vents are indispensable, and you can also set up an insulation layer on the roof of the pigpen to create a buffer zone for the temperature at the top. Alternatively, add more windows inside the pigpen and then use spray-type precipitation, using water vapor to cool things down. In any case, there is just one principle: as long as it can lower the temperature, it is fine.
2. Changes in Feeding Methods
Feeding methods in summer should differ from other periods. In summer, feeding times need to be scheduled during the cooler periods of the day, and the recommended times are 8 in the morning and 6 in the evening. In between, feed or don't feed depending on the situation. If the pigpen temperature is low, you can feed a small amount; otherwise, do not feed, and the pig feed must be cool. The number of pigs in each pen must be reduced by a certain amount to avoid heat reactions in the pigs caused by overcrowding. Generally, a 2*3 m pigpen is about right for raising 3-4 pigs.
3. Adjusting the Feed
The feed used in summer should also be appropriately changed. The feed should shift to being mainly green feed, with dry feed as a supplement. Varieties that help relieve summer heat, such as sweet potatoes, can be fed a little more. In addition to cooked feed, you can also place some raw sweet potatoes or fresh forage in the pigpen so the pigs can eat when hungry in between, which can also improve the pigs' appetite. To ensure the protein needed for pig growth, it is best to add some soybeans to the food, which can speed up pig growth.
4. Adding Water Troughs
In summer, water troughs can be added to the pigpen. This will help the pigs lower their own body temperature, thereby promoting their feeding efficiency and helping them gain weight. Moreover, this water trough can also help the pigs digest faster, promote gastrointestinal motility, and reduce the incidence of some diseases. The water in the trough must not be left standing too long; summer water spoils easily, and the water placed there must be cool water, preferably water similar to the temperature of well water in summer. Do not use water from ponds or rivers, as this will increase the rate at which external factors trigger disease in the pigs.
For pigs, summer is also a good season for putting on fat. You should not only look at its bad side. You can use the methods above to make a change and let the pigs you raise gain a big jump in weight in summer. If you want to learn more information about pig farming, you can follow our website!