What are the key points for managing gilts at first farrowing
The management of a gilt's first farrowing is very important, as it has a huge impact on the sow's reproductive performance and productive life, and because the sow lacks experience at her first farrowing and has a sense of fear, these are all factors that greatly affect production. So how should gilts be managed at first farrowing to achieve good breeding results? Let's take a look.
1. Flushing before breeding
Gilts should be bred for the first time at 8 months of age and 110 kg of body weight. They should not be mated at their first estrus, because ovarian function is not yet fully developed. When the gilt reaches 5 months of age, restricted feeding should begin, and flushing should start 2 weeks before mating, that is, the optimal feed intake 2 weeks before mating is 40%-50%, which can increase ovulation. According to relevant data, flushing before breeding can allow sows to produce two more piglets per litter.
2. Moderate nutrition during gestation
After mating, the feeding amount should be reduced to the level before flushing to favor egg implantation and reduce embryonic death, until 84 days of gestation, at which point the nutritional level of the diet should be increased, raising the proportion of nutrients such as protein, amino acids, and calcium and phosphorus. By 2-3 days before farrowing, reduce the feeding amount to about 1.8 kg to avoid dystocia caused by excess nutrition.
3. Increase feed intake during lactation
From 5-7 days after farrowing, gradually increase the feeding amount; the principle is to feed weak sows as much as they can eat, so as to ensure sufficient lactation for the piglets. Generally, two feeding methods are used: first, based on 1.5 kg per day, feed an extra 0.5 kg for each piglet raised; second, based on 2 kg per day, feed an extra 0.4 kg for each piglet nursed. In short, the daily feeding amount during lactation should reach about 6 kg, preferably more than 6.5 kg. If the sow's feed intake is low, an appropriate amount of oil can be added to the feed and the protein content increased to ensure sufficient lactation.
The above is an introduction to the key points for managing gilts at first farrowing. We hope it can help you. To learn more related knowledge, please keep following us.