Weaning is a critical phase in pig development, and improper methods can significantly impact their health and growth. One common mistake is abruptly weaning pigs without prior preparation. This sudden change in environment and feeding habits can cause stress, leading to poor weight gain and even illness. The correct approach is to gradually reduce the frequency of nursing over 5–6 days before weaning, allowing the piglets to adapt slowly.
Another issue is delayed or improper feeding during the lactation period. If piglets are not fed timely, they may struggle to eat after weaning, as they lack the ability to consume solid food immediately. It’s important to start introducing small amounts of palatable, easily digestible feed around day 10, and gradually transition them to regular feed as they grow.
After weaning, if the feeding method or diet changes too quickly, it can lead to reduced appetite and poor growth. Piglets may refuse to eat and experience digestive issues. Therefore, when purchasing pigs, it's essential to ask about their previous feeding practices. The transition should be smooth—gradually reducing the amount of milk, increasing solid feed, and adjusting the number of meals over time.
Environmental changes also play a major role. Pigs that were previously kept with their mothers and siblings may feel isolated after weaning, especially in cold weather. This can lead to poor eating habits and increased vulnerability to diseases. To minimize stress, it’s important to understand the original living conditions and provide a stable, comfortable environment for the pigs.
Overcrowding and poor management are additional challenges. Some farmers keep pigs in individual pens, but if these pens are not cleaned regularly, it can lead to unsanitary conditions and disease outbreaks, especially in winter. It’s crucial to maintain cleanliness, encourage proper feeding behavior, and train pigs to eat, defecate, and rest in designated areas.
Lastly, improper timing of vaccinations and castration can harm pig health. Many farmers wait until after weaning to administer vaccines or castrate pigs, which adds more stress and can slow growth. Ideally, castration should be done at 20 days for males and 30–40 days for females. Vaccinations, such as for swine fever, should be given before 30 days of age, while erysipelas vaccination is recommended at 90 days. Proper timing ensures better immunity and overall development.
By following these best practices, farmers can improve pig health, growth, and productivity, ultimately leading to better results in pig farming.
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