The Pig Journal website is brought to you in association with ThePigSite.com
The Pig Journal is published by UK Pig Veterinary Society and can be contacted here
The Pig Journal
 
Home
Pig Journal Index
News Archives
Published Articles

Buy On-line
Manual Order Form

PVS web site
Other Links

Search This Site
Submissions
Contact us


Pig Journal Volume: 60
Publication date: December 2007

Research Papers

GILT REARING FOR LIFE-LONG PERFORMANCE:
W.H. Close and P. Toplis

Abstract
The young gilt is the future of any pig production enterprise and, like any other business investment, must be treated with great care and attention. She must be fed and managed properly to help her achieve her full breeding potential of five to six litters per lifetime. It is well established that the premature culling of breeding females and lifetime productivity impact heavily on the cost of production. Indeed, the way producers rear and manage their gilts is of utmost importance to sow herd productivity. This paper looks at some of the latest thinking on the relative importance of lean and backfat thickness at the commencement of breeding. Targets are suggested for body weight and age at mating and nutrient requirements to achieve these are given. Some feeding strategies and management requirements are outlined.

Add to Basket
 
 
www.pigvetsoc.org.uk © Copyright The Pig Veterinary Society 2004

 
Pig Meat Processing Section

Friday 10th February

Our Main Sponsors
 
Supporting Partners