UK - Cost per tonne versus the value of a good starter diet
Published:January 27, 2005
Source :National Pig Association
Some setbacks in pigs that are commonly attributed to wasting disease are much more likely to be stress-related or nutritional in origin, and diet choice is a key factor, says Pork Chain Solutions.
Any compromise in feeding in the critical post-weaning phase will continue to manifest itself through the pig's life. This means producers end up grappling with symptoms rather than cause - particularly where the pigs change sites or departments.
Under these circumstances it is more difficult to empty pens or maintain target weights and to practice all-in, all-out hygiene. Not only that, but mortality is likely to be higher and carcass variability and eating quality will be compromised.
The severity of PMWS/PDNS and variation in growth will not be completely overcome by the manner in which pigs are fed after weaning, but it is true to say that:
Young pigs will not show compensatory growth when a restriction on their potential is applied.
The greater the check on growth that is applied the bigger will be the brake on performance right through to slaughter.
Growth performance lost at and soon after weaning can never be recovered.
