Sow appetite -- A cause for concern

摘要

Genetic trends are in opposite directions for today's sows, taking them towards higher output and yet reducing their daily feed intake capacity so they fail to eat enough in lactation. In a previous issue we discussed the practical problems being created because genetic selection over the past 10-15 years has inadvertently reduced the appetite of modern grow-finish pigs. Some national data say that the voluntary feed intake between weaning and slaughter has been declining by about 1% every 3 years. Similar concerns could be raised about the amount of feed eaten by lactating sows. Just as there have been significant genetic changes in the grower/finisher, breeders have changed the sow. This work has resulted in a higher milk yield, but also extra maintenance costs (leading to increased energy requirements), less storage of body fat and a poorer appetite.