Characteristics of Pigs in the Breeding Industry and Scientific Feeding and Management Methods

Pig farming is an important part of the livestock and poultry breeding industry, referring to the production activity of raising piglets into commercial pigs or breeding pigs through artificial feeding and management. Pork is one of the main meats on the dining tables of Chinese residents, and pig farming has therefore become an important business direction for many farmers and breeding farms, occupying an important position in agricultural production and the rural economy.

In terms of breeds, pigs used for farming can be broadly divided into two categories: local breeds and introduced breeds. Local breeds have strong adaptability and tolerance for coarse feed, and their meat quality has its own distinctive characteristics; introduced breeds such as Landrace, Large White, and Duroc grow faster and have a higher lean meat percentage, and are often used in commercial pig production or as the paternal line for crossbreeding improvement. Farmers can choose suitable breeds or crossbreeding combinations according to market demand and their own conditions.

In terms of feeding and management, pig farming is generally carried out in groups according to stages such as piglets, nursery, and fattening, and the nutritional needs and environmental requirements differ at each stage. The pens should be kept ventilated and dry, warm in winter and cool in summer; the feed should be nutritionally balanced, clean and hygienic, and at the same time sufficient clean drinking water should be ensured so that the pig herd can grow healthily.

Disease prevention and control and manure treatment are the two major priorities in the pig farming process. Breeding farms need to carry out vaccination and daily disinfection properly, isolate and handle any abnormalities promptly, and strictly regulate the use of medication; antibiotics must not be abused, so as not to affect the health of the pig herd and the safety of the meat. Waste such as pig manure and urine can be harmlessly treated through composting, biogas, and other methods, which can both reduce environmental pollution and achieve resource utilization.