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Evaluation of a biological response modifier: effects on starter pig performance
R C Thaler1, J L Nelssen, G A Anderson
1Kansas State University, Manhattan 66506.
Journal of Animal Science
|September 1, 1989
Summary
FK-565, a biological response modifier, did not improve weanling pig performance in a 35-day trial. Antibacterial diets significantly enhanced average daily gain and feed consumption compared to control and FK-565 groups.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Biological response modifiers are investigated for their potential to enhance animal growth and health.
- FK-565 is a specific biological response modifier with limited published data on its efficacy in livestock.
- Weanling pig production is a critical stage where growth promotion and disease prevention are paramount.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of FK-565 as a growth promoter in weanling pigs.
- To compare the performance of pigs fed FK-565 with those fed a control diet and a diet supplemented with an antibacterial combination.
- To assess the impact of FK-565 on physiological parameters and organ health in weanling pigs.
Main Methods:
- A 35-day growth trial involving 125 weanling pigs.
- Dietary treatments included a basal diet, basal plus varying levels of FK-565 (0.1, 1, 10 ppm), and a control diet with an antibacterial combination (chlortetracycline, sulfamethazine, penicillin).
- Performance metrics (weight gain, feed intake, feed efficiency) were recorded weekly. Blood chemistry, organ weights, and histological examinations were conducted at the end of the trial.
Main Results:
- Pigs fed the antibacterial diet exhibited significantly faster weight gain by day 14 and throughout the 35-day trial compared to control and FK-565 groups.
- No significant differences in feed intake or feed utilization efficiency were observed between groups at day 14 or day 35.
- Pigs consumed significantly more of the antibacterial diet than other diets.
Conclusions:
- FK-565 did not demonstrate a positive effect on weanling pig growth performance under the conditions of this study.
- The tested antibacterial combination proved more effective in promoting growth and feed intake in weanling pigs.
- Further research may be needed to explore alternative applications or dosages of FK-565, or to investigate its effects on different physiological parameters or disease challenges.