September 21, 2007

Cold temperature result in bigger piglets

A cold temperature of 13-15ºC can result to higher feed intake and quicker pig growth, reveals a research by Wagenigen University's Animal Sciences Group (ASG) in the Netherlands.

At delivery to finishing units, due to a higher weight, the animals can yield about 5 euros more than pigs housed at conventional temperatures of 22˚C. Aside from growth advantage, cold houses can save the heating bill by 0.80 euros per piglet.

At weaning, the 'cold' piglets housed are 1.4 kilograms (kg) heavier than pigs grown under conventional temperatures. After a two-week weaning, the pigs weigh 2.2 kg heavier and 2.3 kilograms after four weeks.

However, raising piglets in colder surroundings can have disadvantages: more piglets are crushed by sows; and pigs have bigger fat layers and a lower meat percentage.

The ASG advises to house the piglets warmly in the first two to three weeks to prevent crushing by sows. After these weeks, the heating could be switched off. This stimulates feed intake and saves energy.

The researchers also advise that temperature should not be much lower than 15˚C to prevent the animals from creating too much backfat.