The environmental temperature within a pig house, along with the temperature of feed and drinking water, plays a crucial role in the growth and well-being of pigs. Proper temperature management is essential for ensuring optimal development and maintaining high productivity. In pig farming, creating a stable and suitable thermal environment is not just a recommendation—it's a necessity that directly impacts growth rates, health conditions, and overall economic returns.
When external temperatures drop significantly, pigs must work harder to maintain their body heat. This involves increasing metabolic activity, which can lead to higher energy consumption. For example, when the ambient temperature around piglets ranges between 20°C and 26°C, their metabolism remains efficient, allowing them to grow normally without excessive energy expenditure. Similarly, adult pigs perform best when the temperature is between 15°C and 20°C, as this range supports normal physiological functions and minimizes unnecessary energy loss.
To ensure this ideal environment, proper insulation of the pig house is vital. Measures such as covering the roof with plastic film or using other insulating materials help retain heat, reducing the need for pigs to burn extra calories just to stay warm. This not only lowers their metabolic demands but also enhances their growth performance and weight gain.
In addition to air temperature, the temperature of feed and water is equally important, especially during colder months. A nursing sow, for instance, requires about 17.5 to 22.5 kilograms of feed and water daily. If the water and feed are at 0°C, warming them up to the pig’s body temperature (around 39°C) can consume a significant amount of energy—approximately 682 to 878 kcal per day. This energy cost is equivalent to feeding the sow an additional 0.5 to 0.75 kilograms of concentrate just to maintain her body temperature, which could otherwise be used for lactation or growth.
Therefore, in winter, it's highly recommended to provide warm water and feed to pigs. This practice not only reduces energy waste but also improves feed conversion efficiency, leading to better growth outcomes and lower feed costs. By paying attention to these small but critical details, farmers can significantly enhance the health and productivity of their livestock.
(Zhao Shuang Ling)
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