Effect of Short-Term Increases in Feed Allowances on Growth and Sexual Development in Previously Feed-Restricted...

Previous work demonstrates that short -term increases in feed allowances (i.e., "nutritional flushing") can improve ovulation rate. Furthermore, precision livestock farming equipment like electronic sow feeder (ESF) systems are becoming more commonplace to enhance individual sow management in group housing. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of short-term increases in feed allowances on growth and sexual development in previously feed-restricted gilts using an ESF. Prepubertal crossbred gilts were acclimated to an ESF and allocated to one of three feeding regimens, ad libitum (AD, n = 14), restricted (RS, n = 14; 2.72 kg/d), or 2.72 kg/d, until 7 days after puberty (NF, n = 14), followed by ad libitum feeding. Estrus detection and feeding regimens commenced at 160 days of age and continued for 48 days. Reproductive tracts were harvested between 8 and 11 days after second estrus. Average daily gain was improved in NF gilts compared to RS gilts (p = 0.04) Ad libitum-fed gilts were less feed efficient than the other treatment groups (p < 0.01). Improved ovulation rate was observed for NF gilts compared to RS gilts (p = 0.05). Feed disappearance decreased as estrus approached for AD and NF gilts (p < 0.01). For the regimens herein, age at puberty onset was not impacted; however, feed conversion was improved for the level of restriction implemented. Moreover, employing ESF technology may support current estrus detection methods by monitoring feeding behavior for AD-fed gilts.