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Feed intake pattern during lactation and subsequent reproductive performance of sows
Y Koketsu1, G D Dial, J E Pettigrew
1Department of Clinical and Population Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul 55108, USA.
Journal of Animal Science
|December 1, 1996
Summary
Understanding sow feed intake patterns during lactation is crucial for reproductive success. Different feed intake patterns significantly impact sow rebreeding performance and subsequent litter outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Reproductive Biology
- Swine Nutrition
Background:
- Lactation feed intake is a critical factor influencing sow productivity.
- Previous research has focused on total intake, but intake patterns may also be important.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between daily feed intake patterns during lactation and subsequent reproductive performance in sows.
- To identify specific feed intake patterns associated with improved or decreased reproductive outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Recorded daily feed intake for 20,296 lactating sows across 30 commercial US farms.
- Categorized intake into six patterns: RAPID, MAJOR, MINOR, LLL, LHH, and GRADUAL.
- Analyzed associations between intake patterns and reproductive metrics (WSI, WCI, WWT, SLS) using multiple regression.
Main Results:
- Low feed intake patterns (LLL, LHH) were linked to longer weaning-to-service and weaning-to-conception intervals.
- Sows with a major drop (MAJOR) had longer WCI, lighter litter weights at weaning, and higher rates of culling for anestrus.
- Any drop in feed intake during the first two weeks increased the likelihood of culling for anestrus.
Conclusions:
- Both the amount and pattern of feed intake during lactation significantly influence subsequent reproductive performance.
- Identifying and managing suboptimal feed intake patterns can improve sow rebreeding and productivity.
- Specific intake patterns, particularly drops, are associated with negative reproductive consequences and potential culling.