Evaluation of the impact of iron dosage on post-weaning weight gain, and mortality

摘要

Prior studies have shown that modern genetics leading to rapid growth rates potentiate an increased requirement for iron, in order to maintain adequate hemoglobin production.1 If the iron requirement of modern pigs exceeds that provided by a standard200 mg dose, health and performance may be negatively affected.2 While studies have shown an improvement in weight gain in the first 3-weeks post weaning, no studies have followed such improvements through the wean to market period.1 Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the impact of iron dosage on wean-to-market weight gain and wean to 8-weeks post-wean (WPW) mortality.