Does feeding frequency during lactation affect sows' body condition, reproduction and production performance?

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Reproductive Biology
• Swine Husbandry

Background:

• Lactation feeding strategies significantly impact sow productivity and welfare.
• Optimizing feeding frequency is crucial for managing sow body condition and reproductive efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effects of a three-times daily feeding frequency versus a two-times daily feeding frequency during lactation on sow body condition, reproductive performance, and piglet growth.
• To assess the influence of feeding frequency on sow welfare indicators, such as shoulder lesions.

Main Methods:

• A study was conducted on a commercial farm with 68 sows, divided into two treatment groups: two times daily feeding (2DF) and three times daily feeding (3DF) during lactation.
• Sows were further classified by parity (young <2, old ≥3).
• Key parameters recorded included body condition score (BCS), shoulder lesions, return to estrus rate, and piglet growth performance.

Main Results:

• Sows fed three times daily (3DF) exhibited higher feed intake and fewer shoulder lesions compared to those fed twice daily (2DF).
• Return to estrus rates differed between treatments and age groups: 3DF showed 0% for young and 29% for old sows, while 2DF showed 20% for young and 5% for old sows.
• Three-times daily feeding positively influenced sow body condition.

Conclusions:

• Increasing feeding frequency to three times daily during lactation enhances sow feed intake and body condition.
• A three-times daily feeding regimen reduces shoulder lesions and improves reproductive outcomes, particularly reducing return to estrus rates in young sows.