Medicinal plant peony (Mudanpi) disease
The transition from weaning to breeding is a crucial phase in sow management that significantly impacts reproductive performance. This stage plays a vital role in preparing sows for estrus and successful mating, making it essential to focus on feeding and management practices. The following insights are based on the experience of large-scale pig farms, as shared by Zhengda, and offer valuable guidance for optimizing this critical period.
1. **Impact of Gestation and Lactation on Weaning-to-Breeding Interval**
The lactation period has a direct effect on the interval between weaning and the next breeding. Shortening lactation can extend this interval, so it's important to manage feed intake effectively. During late lactation, sows should be fed nutrient-dense diets to help recover body condition and support future fertility.
2. **Feeding Post-Weaning**
High feed intake after weaning helps reduce the weaning-to-breeding interval, enhances ovulation (especially in first-time sows), and improves conception rates. Sows should have free access to feed, and wet feeding can further boost egg quality and fertility.
3. **Boar Exposure**
Regular contact with boars is essential for stimulating estrus. Sows should be kept near boars or exposed to them daily, allowing visual, auditory, and even nose-to-nose interaction, which encourages natural breeding behavior.
4. **Group Management and Housing**
In group housing systems, sows need sufficient space—ideally at least 2 square meters per sow—to reduce stress and promote comfort. Mixing groups should be done carefully to avoid excessive stress, and proper facilities should be available for waste removal.
5. **Environmental Conditions**
Temperature and lighting play a key role in reproductive success. Sows housed on concrete floors require a minimum temperature of 20°C, while those with straw bedding can tolerate 15°C. Low temperatures can suppress estrus. Lighting is also important: sows need about 50 lux of light, ideally from natural sources, with artificial lighting maintained for 16 hours per day.
6. **Weaning Days and Procedures**
The timing of weaning depends on factors like nursery conditions, feed quality, and farm management. While 17–18 days is common, early weaning may affect breeding outcomes. Many farms choose to wean on Wednesdays or Thursdays to spread out breeding activities throughout the week. Large-scale operations often wean twice weekly, while very large farms may wean daily.
A well-structured weaning procedure minimizes stress for both sows and staff. Piglets are removed first, followed by sows. Sows are then moved to breeding areas where they can interact with boars. For slatted or solid flooring, maintaining an optimal ambient temperature is crucial. In group systems, sows should be provided with enough space and social interaction to ease the transition.
7. **Post-Weaning Nutrition and Health**
After weaning, sows should be given balanced nutrition to support reproductive health. Free-choice feeding is recommended, and supplements such as vitamins A, D, and E can be beneficial. Providing 200g of glucose daily from seven days before weaning until breeding can also improve fertility outcomes.
It’s important to note that sows have self-regulating abilities post-weaning. Their mammary glands will naturally adjust once milk production and reabsorption reach equilibrium. Limiting feed should be based on individual sow needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
In summary, effective management during the weaning-to-breeding phase is essential for maximizing reproductive efficiency. By focusing on nutrition, environmental conditions, and proper handling, farmers can ensure sows are in the best possible condition for breeding.
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