Open PRAIRIE: Open Public Research Access Institutional Repository and Information Exchange
Abstract
Inadequate feed consumption by sows (below 10 lb/day) in the farrowing house accompanied by large weight losses during lactation is a major problem in the swine industry. Excessive sow weight loss is often associated with poor milking performance and delayed return to estrus after weaning. High temperature in the farrowing house is often to blame for inadequate feed intake. However, even under the most ideal management the problem often exists. The trial reported herein is a part of a regional study (NCR-89, Confinement Management of Swine) to evaluate the effect of feeding frequency and the addition of sugar to the diet on sow feed intake and lactation performance
