FEED TO SUCCEED
Pig Nutrition Guide Nutrition advice? Listen to the experts. Contents
Pigs – versatile, productive omnivores 5 Feeding piglets 20 Pig keeping options 6 Feeding growing pigs 21 Nutritional requirements 7 Feeding sows and boars 21 Key components of the diet 9 Speciality breeds 22 Mineral and trace elements for pigs 12 Alternative feeds for pigs 23 Vitamins 14 Mycotoxins and pigs 27 Drinking water 17 Housing 28 Feeding recommendations 17 Hygiene 29 NRM Little Pig Tucker 18 Animal health 30 NRM Big Pig Nuts 19 4 FEED TO SUCCEED Pigs – versatile, productive omnivores
Many small farmers will keep As opportunistic omnivores (they have cattle or sheep but are wary of evolved to eat meat and vegetables), pigs pigs, which in many ways are are fl exible by nature and are amenable to actually better suited to a small changes in their circumstances – whether they are kept in intensive commercial farm because they need less units, free range commercial or extensive access to pasture and respond farming systems that allow freedom to well to care and attention. wander and dig. Anyone who enjoys Pigs are considered intelligent, normally keeping animals and has the opportunity gentle animals that appeal to many to keep pigs should consider these four- people as pets, whilst being a highly legged monogastric marvels. productive meat producer and one of The three prerequisites for successful the most popular farmed species pig ownership are: throughout the world. Pigs are thought to have been widely domesticated in • Keeping pigs well fed on a China as early as about 5000 B.C. balanced diet. and in Europe by 1500 B.C. • Providing shelter from the weather. • Paying attention to their health Fun fact – the pig is the and welfare. last of the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac and is seen to represent fortune, honesty, happiness and virility.
The choice of heritage breeds is more limited in New Zealand than elsewhere, simply because only some breeds were imported before import restrictions were enforced – so they really need the support of small farmers to maintain genetic diversity. They are well suited to free ranging, less intensive situations and the meat products they produce are just reward for the effort devoted to them.
5 Pig keeping options
Growing and then maintaining a stock skills. A sow can produce more pig as a pet is possibly the easiest than 20 piglets in a litter but commercial route to pig keeping – better still, breeders average 12-14 with a birth start with two from the same litter weight of 1-1.5kg, which demonstrates how amazingly productive pigs can be. so they keep each other company Heritage breeds may be less prolifi c (pigs grow better with a pen mate). and well suited to the less experienced Kunekunes are popular as pets breeder. Whilst sows can be artifi cially because of their size, temperament and inseminated, natural mating is typically appearance – albeit that beauty is in the favoured, which necessitates keeping eye of the beholder and they are not or borrowing a boar. Boars can be everybody’s cup of tea. aggressive and may require higher stock handling skills, especially if assisting Buying weaned piglets from a breeder during coupling. and taking them through from weaning to fi nishing or market weights offers some Farrow-to-fi nish operations do not commercial gain without the complexity sell weaners but take them through to of breeding. If starting out with two, fi nish or sale at 6 or 7 months of age. one can be butchered slightly earlier for More pigs are fed over a longer period, so ham and pork and the other 6-8 weeks this system requires more commitment later for bacon. Much of the pig can be and management but avoids the risk of used to make food including sausages, having to sell weaners into a possibly bacon, gammon, ham, skin into pork over-supplied market when prices might scratchings and the blood into black be depressed. pudding. Commercial producers may have biosecurity arrangements, which should be accommodated when choosing and collecting stock. Farrow-to-wean operations focus on breeding and farrowing sows to produce weaners (young pigs that have been weaned and no longer require milk), which are sold to other breeders or fi nishers. This system can be attractive if you lack the facilities to fi nish a larger number of stock, or if conditions on your property limit the number of pigs you can keep. Sows are very responsive to good care and attention, especially at farrowing time, so this system will reward those with time, energy and natural (if not learnt)
6 FEED TO SUCCEED Nutritional requirements
Good nutrition is fundamental to of 20 years ago, the fundamental building a pig’s growth rate, reproductive blocks of nutrition remain unchanged. success, health and longevity. These are energy, protein (amino acids), vitamins and minerals and for optimum Pigs are opportunistic omnivores that growth of any pig, it is important to have evolved to eat a wide range of feeds. ensure these are provided in balanced They are classed as monogastric animals, amounts. The fi bre content of feed can which means that they have one stomach be an important indicator to feed value compartment – this is compared to and intake potential – fi brous feeds are ruminant animals that have four stomach fi lling and may be less digestible – and in compartments. Pigs digest feed very addition, palatability can help to drive or similarly to humans, with limited ability deter intakes. The old adage of “eating to extract nutrients from high fi bre feeds like a pig” is no longer entirely true, since such as pasture. Pigs can be competitive pigs are actually quite fussy. To provide for feed when group housed and because some perspective, a modern (weaned) concentrated feed can be eaten quickly, pig of 25kg is able to grow to 100kg in it is important that they are all given equal about 6 months and it takes a (large) opportunity to eat their fair share. human at least 20 years to get to that weight. Intensive producers are able to Even though modern pig genotypes are achieve a very effi cient feed conversion of considerably leaner than the genotypes 3kg of feed to produce 1kg of liveweight.
7 Nutritional requirements
The nutritional demands of the pig are that drives all biochemical processes in therefore enormous compared to humans the body. When there is an abundance and this poses unique challenges during of energy, growth accelerates to the rate growth from weaning to slaughter. permitted by the availability of the other limiting nutrients and the genetic potential Personal preference for different breeds of the animal. Any energy consumed of pigs and difference in objective above these needs will be stored in the when choosing pigs for your property body as fat. In cold conditions pigs will means that across New Zealand there is increase heat production to keep warm considerable variation in pig genetics. As and require more feed. Pigs do not enjoy genetics play an important role in how a the same quality of coat enjoyed by pig uses the nutrients contained in the cattle and sheep and respond well to feed it consumes, it is important to know bedding, group housing and freedom what stock you have and how they should from draughts, which reduces the need to be fed. increase heat production to keep warm. Animals require energy for maintenance, Conversely, feed intake will reduce if pigs which includes the needs of all body are too warm and expend energy trying to functions and moderate activity keep cool and may benefi t from a wallow associated with living. Energy is the fuel in cool mud.
8 FEED TO SUCCEED Key components of the diet
Energy MJ ME/kgDM
Protein Fibre (%) (%)
Trace minerals Major minerals Palatability Vitamins Dry matter Additives
Often there is no profi t in simply will lose weight to support milk maintaining animals. Energy intake is production for their offspring but typically the fi rst limiting factor for the excessive loss of weight when piglets growth of animals or the level of milk are still on the sow will affect fertility. If production for lactating sows. The energy they are to get back into pig it is preferable required for maintenance is like a tax that they do not lose too much condition when has to be paid every day – generally with lactating, which they will have to try to growing animals, the faster they grow the recover whilst pregnant. more cost effective the gains become, so A sow’s intake when lactating can be commercial pig producers aim for high reduced by too much weight gain during liveweight gains close to the biological pregnancy. Energy intake is determined limit of the animals. by the digestible energy density of the Within physiological limits, growing feed and the level of intake. The digestible and fi nishing pigs will compensate for energy of a feed is the total amount of decreases or increases in the energy energy it contains less the amount that is density of the diet by increasing or not digested and excreted in the faeces. decreasing their feed intake. For sows, The amount of carbohydrate (especially feed intake is restricted during gestation starch and sugar), protein and fat can and increases during lactation with each help to lift the digestible energy levels farrowing, number of piglets nursed and in the pig’s diet, whereas fi bre tends to the lactation length. Sows can have large reduce the energy available to pigs. High litters rather than just one or two young at fi bre feeds, e.g. soy hulls and forages, will a time and will milk off their backs – they decrease the energy a pig can absorb and
9 Key components of the diet
may depress intake because of excessive maintenance, growth and milk production bulk or reduced palatability. A lack of fi bre is critical. The amino acid requirements can cause constipation, e.g. if feeding of growing-fi nishing pigs is infl uenced too much white bread. NRM pig feeds by their genetic capacity to deposit body contain enzymes that help improve the protein, i.e. muscle. Modern, lean breeds digestibility of key fractions, which help of pigs have a greater predisposition to feed conversion and growth rates. keep accumulating muscle than heritage breeds of pigs that will tend to deposit fat Protein and in particular lysine is typically sooner. Within the heritage breeds, some the second limiting factor for the growth were favoured more for fi nishing lighter for of animals or the level of milk production pork and some taken to bigger weights as in lactating sows. A balanced intake of bacon pigs. amino acids is required for the growth of muscles and organs and the production Lactating sows with large litters tend to of enzymes and hormones. For animal produce more milk and lose less weight feeds we normally refer to crude protein, when fed higher dietary levels of lysine which is determined by a laboratory and other essential amino acids. Boars test to measure the nitrogen content benefi t from adequate protein during their multiplied by 6.25. For pigs, whilst the development but when working do not level of protein in their diet is important, have a high amino acid requirement and the composition of that protein in terms daily feed intake may need to be limited of essential amino acids (the building to avoid excess weight gain as they get blocks from which protein is made) for older. NRM is able to make pig feeds that
10 FEED TO SUCCEED
consistently provide a balanced supply Collecting, preparing and feeding waste of the amino acids required by pigs. feeds can be time consuming and less rewarding than expected if they impact Protein consists of combinations of on feed conversion effi ciency. Spoilage amino acids and, for the growing pig, organisms do not fl ourish on dry feeds, the most important function of these is which should be stored in dry, vermin-free their role in lean meat gain. Cereal grains conditions. Extra care may be necessary are a good source of energy and contain when feeding and storing moist feeds some protein but are typically too low as they can support mould growth, in protein to be used alone. Protein is a which can produce mycotoxins that can comparatively expensive component in a be detrimental to both the health and diet but it can be false economy to feed performance of pigs. too little. If a diet that is defi cient in protein or a specifi c amino acid is fed to growing Feeding a balanced diet to growing pigs, these animals will eat extra feed to pigs from weaning through to slaughter try and eat suffi cient amounts of protein not only ensures that pigs grow rapidly or the defi cient amino acid to support but helps to ensure that the carcass weight gain. This means the pig will in composition and meat quality is desirable, all likelihood eat too much energy and while the added vitamins and minerals consequently, become very fat. contained in a balanced feed help to ensure that animals remain healthy An overfat pig can be easy to produce throughout the growing phase. Sudden if feeding high fat feed such as waste changes in the diet, too much undiluted milk. In contrast, if the diet is low in milk or too much fat in the diet can cause energy, the pig may not have suffi cient diarrhoea. The killing out percentage for energy to grow at its optimum rate. commercial pigs is about 72-74%, with In such circumstances, feeding what the percentage of usable meat around appears to be a relatively cheap diet 64% of the animal’s liveweight, with prime can turn out to be costly, as the amount cuts about 48% of the liveweight. of feed required per unit of body weight gain increases. Younger piglets require Pigs have a dietary requirement for major a higher protein diet (16-17%), whereas minerals that are required in grams per fi nishing pigs and maintenance diets for animal per day – including calcium, sows can be lower (13-14%). The faster magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, a pig grows and reaches its required sodium. More is not always better and slaughter weight, the less money and time excessive intake of one mineral can is needed to feed and care for it. Giving affect the availability of another. Minor weaners a ready-made ration will help get or trace minerals required at mg per day them off to a good start and they will be rates include cobalt, copper, iodine, iron, less susceptible to diarrhoea during the manganese, selenium and zinc. fi rst weeks after weaning. If cheaper feeds are to be introduced, it should be after 3-4 weeks.
11 Mineral and trace elements for pigs
Symptom Mineral Function if defi cient Comments Calcium Found in bones Rickets in young animals Young growing animals and teeth but also and osteomalacia and sows in late enables nerves and (softening of bones) gestation and lactation muscles to function. in adults. Growth are most susceptible retardation and to a deficiency. Cereal reduced fertility. grains contain little calcium relative to the needs of growing and lactating pigs. Magnesium In enzymes and Hyperirritability, Efficient recycling nervous system muscular twitching, means that a (transmits nerve reluctance to stand, magnesium deficiency impulses) throughout weak pasterns, loss of in pigs is rare. Young the body. equilibrium and tetany suckling pigs can suffer (muscular spasms) as the milk may not followed by death. supply all their needs. Phosphorous Essential in the Unthrifty, bone Phosphorus formation of bones, structure abnormalities, concentration in forages found in red blood fractures, enlargement declines with maturity. cells, muscle and of joints and stilted gait. nerve tissues. Reproductive failure. Sodium Maintains fluid and Reduced water Pigs can tolerate ion balance in body. consumption, reduced high intakes of salt feed conversion and provided they have weight gain. Poor coat. access to non-saline drinking water. Iron A key component Rough coat, wrinkled Deficiency is common of proteins involved skin when chronically in piglets because in oxygen transport deficient. If acutely sow’s milk is low in and enzymes. lacking, laboured iron, newborns have breathing and low low stores and high resistance to disease. growth rates and are often given an iron injection within several days of birth. Manganese Essential for the Reduced fat and Least toxic of the functioning of the brain carbohydrate trace elements. and nervous system. metabolism, lameness, crooked and shortened legs and enlarged hocks. Poor milk production.
12 FEED TO SUCCEED
Symptom Mineral Function if defi cient Comments Sulphur A key component Reduced performance Slow growth as of amino acids and and reproductive there are not enough found in every cell performance may sulphur amino acids of the body. be affected. for the requirement for protein synthesis. Copper Involved in many Anaemia and abnormal Dietary copper can different enzyme appetite, bowing legs have growth-stimulating systems as a catalyst. and spontaneous effects for pigs but fractures, ataxia has been associated (abnormal gait due with high fecal to lack of muscle copper excretions. control) in young pigs. Iodine Essential for thyroxin Reproductive failure, >800ppm depresses production, which enlarged thyroid growth rate, feed intake controls metabolism. gland, weak, dead or and haemoglobin level. hairless newborns. Selenium Anti-oxidant system in Weak muscles Excess selenium is all active body tissues. (Mulberry heart toxic (associated disease), liver necrosis, with appetite loss low sperm motility and hair loss), so and low litter size. avoid supplementing by several routes at the same time. Zinc Needed in enzyme Dry skin, coarse hair, Excess zinc in the diet and immune systems reduced conception has been associated throughout the body rates, increased with feed refusal rather and keratinous tissues. incidence of small and than toxic effects. abnormal pigs in litters.
13 Vitamins
Vitamins are organic compounds Vitamins are often ignored and yet can be that are distinct from amino acids, critical to the wellbeing and performance carbohydrates and lipids and are of every animal. To help meet the known required in minute amounts for defi ciencies of vitamins in pig diets, vitamin pre-mixes have been developed normal growth and reproduction. for addition to compound feeds.
Vitamin Function Comments Fat soluble vitamins A Vision, reproduction, mucous Vitamin A deficiency results secretions and possibly in reduced weight gains, gene expression. incoordination and blindness. D Essential in calcium and Housed animals have a higher phosphorus metabolism – known dietary requirement because sunlight as the “sunshine” vitamin or may be inadequate. Effective UV the “anti-rickets” vitamin. sunlight levels are variable with the time of year, geographical location, skin/coat colour and coat density. E It is critical as an anti-oxidant with a Works closely with selenium. Stress, key function in fertility and disease exercise, infection and tissue resistance. Newborns are highly trauma increase requirements. susceptible to a deficiency, which may appear as heart failure, stiff or weak piglets and stillborns. K Essential for the formation of Increased litter size and rate of a blood clot, required for bone gain can increase need. Some calcification and mineralisation. mycotoxins can induce deficiency. Biotin Involved in energy release, bone Scaly skin, sole lesions and development and reproduction. A lameness, poor reproduction and key vitamin for healthy skin and the fertility linked to deficiency. production of hair and hooves. Choline A component of most cells Poor growth rate, fatty liver, poor and essential for building and fertility and spraddled hind legs maintaining cell structure. associated with a deficiency. Folic acid Has a role in the break down A deficiency can be associated and building up of some amino with diarrhoea, reduced growth acids and the formation of rates and fertility problems in haem in red blood cells. terms of embryo survival.
14 FEED TO SUCCEED
Vitamin Function Comments Water soluble vitamins Pantothenic Essential role in energy metabolism Piglets may have decreased acid and stimulates the synthesis sucking reflex in the early days of of antibodies and maintenance life if deficient. Poor skin condition, of normal blood sugar. scurf and thin hair particularly around the shoulders and behind the ears may appear in adults. Riboflavin Promotes growth, food conversion, A deficiency may cause cataracts, (B2) fertility and improves skin and light sensitivity and eye lens coat condition. Contributes opacity. Piglets may die at to improved eyesight. birth or within 48 hours. Thiamin Primarily involved in releasing Anorexia and weight loss can (B1) energy from carbohydrates be triggered by a deficiency. and fat but also involved in the activity of the nervous system. B6 Essential for energy production Milk yield and offspring viability and immune system integrity. can be reduced if deficient. B12 Considered the largest, most Deficiency associated with potent and most complex of all uncoordinated hind leg movement vitamins, which is essential to and increased excitability. basic metabolic functions. Litter size and pig survival rates may be reduced.
15 16 FEED TO SUCCEED Drinking water
Pigs must be provided at all times with an Approximate guide to the daily water adequate daily supply of drinking water requirements for various classes of pigs at that is palatable, not harmful to their health normal ambient temperature: and at a temperature that does not inhibit drinking (Animal Welfare – Pigs – Code of Daily water requirements Welfare 2010 minimum standards). Pig Class of pig meat contains approximately 75% water (litres) and pigs usually consume 2 to 3kg of Pigs up to 10kg 1.2 – 1.5 water for every kg of dry feed consumed. If water is not readily available to pigs, Pigs from 11 – 25kg 2.3 – 2.5 feed intake and subsequent gains will be Pigs from 26 – 50kg 3 – 5 reduced. Pigs can tolerate high dietary Pigs from 51 – 120kg 6 – 8 intakes of salt provided they have access to ample non-saline water but if water Boars 5 – 10 is not freely available toxicity can result, Replacement gilts 5 – 8 which can be deadly. Nipple drinkers are Pregnant sow or gilt 5 – 10 preferable to troughs as the water will Lactating sow 15 – 50 always be clean.
Feeding recommendations for compound feeds
Compound feeds should be formulated by than a typical pellet and designed for slow a nutritionist who understands the specifi c growing or mature pigs) and Little Pig nutritional requirements of pigs to ensure Tucker Pellets (which have higher protein a balanced diet that supports health for rapidly growing young pigs and high and productivity. The NRM pig range producing lactating sows). comprises Big Pig Nuts (which are larger
17 NRM Little Pig Tucker Pellets
NRM Little Pig Tucker Pellets are formulated with high quality ingredients to provide balanced protein and energy for lean growth in young pigs and milk production in lactating sows. As NRM Little Pig Tucker Pellets are a complete feed, the provision of other supplements should be limited as this may reduce growth rates.
Feeding recommendation
Piglets: Creep feed with NRM Little Pig Tucker Pellets while providing sows milk or milk replacer until 7-8 weeks of age. Growing pigs: Feed ad-lib for maximum growth. Some feed restriction may be necessary at older ages to minimise fat deposition. Lactating sows: Feed from 5kg at farrowing building up to 8-9kg per sow per day depending on body weight, litter size and Ingredients environmental temperature. Grain and grain by-products, plant Kunekune pigs proteins, vegetable oils, enzymes, Lactating sows: Feed 1.5 to 2kg plus amino acids, limestone, mono or 0.25kg per piglet per day while allowing di-calcium phosphate, salt, mould access to pasture or other fi bre. inhibitor, vitamins and trace minerals, animal fats and organic acids. For growing pigs up to 4 months of age: Feed up to 0.5kg per pig per day depending on required weight gain and pasture quality Typical analysis and availability. Crude Protein 17% Ensure access to fresh, clean water at all times. (Approximate on an as fed basis)
18 FEED TO SUCCEED NRM Big Pig Nuts
NRM Big Pig Nuts are formulated to meet the nutritional needs of growing pigs from 65kg or 15 weeks of age. They are also suitable for feeding to dry sows and boars where limited weight gain is required. NRM Big Pig Nuts are formulated with high quality ingredients to provide balanced protein and energy for slow growing or mature pigs. Because NRM Big Pig Nuts are a complete feed, the provision of other supplements should be limited.
Feeding recommendation
Growing pigs: Feed 2-3kg per day depending on age, genetics, body weight and environmental temperature. Dry sows: Feed 2-2.5kg per sow per day depending on body weight and condition. Take care not to overfeed dry sows as excessive weight gain can result in overfat sows with low feed intake and poor milk Ingredients production post-farrowing. Boars: Feed approximately 2kg per boar Grain and grain by-products, plant per day depending on age, genetics, body proteins, grass seed meal, vegetable condition and environmental temperature. oils, enzymes, amino acids, limestone, mono or di-calcium phosphate, salt, Kunekune pigs mould inhibitor, vitamins and trace Dry sows and boars: Feed 1 to 1.5kg minerals, animal fats and organic acids. per day while allowing access to pasture or other fi bre. Typical analysis Growing pigs from 4 months: Feed up to 1kg per pig per day depending on Crude Protein 14% required weight gain and pasture quality (Approximate on an as fed basis) and availability. Ensure access to fresh, clean water at all times.
19 Feeding piglets
Piglets can be offered special Fun fact – piglets respond to creep feed (feed that they start to their name at 20 days of age. eat whilst still taking milk from their dam) from a few days of age. Demand for specialist creep feeds in New How do I introduce feed to Zealand is small and they can deteriorate young piglets? with storage, so adding dry pig milk replacer to NRM Little Pig Tucker Pellets Start slowly by feeding small amounts can be a useful way to transition piglets mixed with other quality protein and away from milk. Litter size and the milk energy sources such as quality milk, milk production of the sow may determine powder etc. the level of interest in creep feed, which must be kept as fresh and appealing as Part of the experience of raising pigs possible. It is not recommended to wean is watching and learning. Because the piglets under 4 weeks of age, unless the intake of a pig increases as they get piglets can be well cared for and kept in bigger, it is important to fi nd the level a warm environment. Even under highly of feeding that satisfi es the pigs without effi cient commercial environments piglets excess, which may be spoiled by spillage, are not normally weaned under 4 weeks fouling, rain or vermin. of age, by which time they should be a minimum 5.5kg. Heritage breeds are often weaned gradually at 7 to 8 weeks of Fun fact – studies have shown age. Milk replacers that are made up into that, much like humans, pigs a liquid are available for rearing orphan can dream. piglets, which need to be kept warm in a draught-free environment.
20 FEED TO SUCCEED Feeding pigs
Feeding growing pigs and mating to help increase the number of piglets produced in the next litter. Sows Growing pigs that are being grown for are normally pregnant for around 114 days slaughter should have an unlimited and can give birth on average more than intake of feed to maximise their growing twice per year. Dry pregnant sows need to potential. Feed intake should be between be fed to meet the needs of their growing 0.5 to 3kg depending on age, weight and foetuses without getting too fat, so environmental temperature. feeding will normally have to be controlled rather than ad-lib. The feed intake of Little Pig Tucker Pellets are a balanced pellets by dry sows ranges from 1.8- feed designed for the young, growing pig 2.3kg/head/day depending on the need – feed until about 65kg or 15 to 17 weeks to gain condition. NRM Big Pig Nuts are a of age then transition onto a NRM Big Pig good option for dry sows because they do Nuts until slaughter. For fast growing, lean not need a high protein diet to meet the genetics, Little Pig Tucker Pellets can be needs of their developing foetuses. fed until slaughter. When feeding pregnant sows take care not to overfeed, as excessive weight gain Feeding sows and boars causes overfat sows, which have a lower feed intake and therefore reduced milk Milking sows should be fed as much as production after farrowing. they can eat, which will typically be up to 8-9kg/day fed ad-lib to encourage intake. The recommended feeding rates for compounded quality pig feed are NRM Little Pig Tucker Pellets are a good as follows: option for lactating sows because the 17% crude protein they contain helps to • Non-pregnant sows – 2kg/sow/ support milk production. Sows should be day depending on body weight and continued to be fed well between weaning environmental temperature.
21 Feeding pigs
• Pregnant sows and boars – 2.5kg/ graze pasture, the feeding rates will be sow/day and 2kg/boar/day less than the above for growing pigs, depending on body weight and sows and boars. For growing Kunekune environmental temperature. pigs from 4 months of age, this will be up to 0.5kg per pig per day depending on • Lactating sows – start at 5kg after age and weight. Care needs to be taken farrowing and gradually build up to that pigs don’t become overweight. 8-9kg, depending on body size and environmental temperature. Can I feed my pigs too much? Speciality breeds Yes, if a pig is allowed to over-consume Kunekune and pigs kept as pets should it may get dietary problems such as be fed NRM Big Pig Nuts and have a scours or become over-fat. The risk restricted intake to ensure that they do of over-feeding is less with growing not become overweight. This will depend pigs and modern genetic types, which on the age and weight of the pig. Due to are leaner. size and the fact the Kunekune will also
22 FEED TO SUCCEED
23 Alternative feeds for pigs
Balanced compound feeds contain all bulky and fi lling. Potatoes must be the vitamins and trace minerals required cooked and only fed to pigs over 12 to support the growth of fattening pigs. weeks of age – they are low in protein, Feeding cheaper feeds such as straight calcium and phosphorus. Cereals need to grains and by-products can be a false be ground or boiled to improve digestion economy because the animal takes longer and cereal based products such as to reach target weight and uses more feed biscuits, bread and breakfast cereals to do so. can be put through a garden shredder to produce a meal type feed. If essential nutrient requirements are not met, the pigs may show signs of poor Milk is a good source of quality health. Kitchen scraps and waste may protein but needs to be introduced be well received by the growing pig with gradually and is normally fed diluted great enthusiasm and, whilst they may 50% with water. Many dairy farmers be adequate for slow growing humans, direct waste milk into pigs but ease they are generally woefully inadequate in back at the fi nishing stage, because too supporting growth of the fattening pig. much is associated with soft fat in the carcass. Skim milk is a good source of Any scraps fed should be regarded as protein but contains less energy, whey equivalent to “lollies” for a young child is an energy source and should be fed – they are a treat and should not be to older pigs (>14 weeks) as bloat is a regarded as “balanced” feed. Potatoes, common side effect. carrots, apple pomace and citrus pulp are
Alternative feeds that may be useful in moderation:
Feed Pros Cons Bakery waste Very palatable when fresh. Normally Nutritional values can vary has high energy content due to a dramatically, may not store well and high level of sugar, starch and oil. can go rancid and mouldy – absorbs moisture. Care has to be taken to avoid plastic bags. Low protein typically. Feeding bread can cause constipation due to low fibre content. Barley High energy grain. Low in vitamins A, D, E and calcium. Protein is of average quality, being particularly deficient in lysine. Feeding on its own can result in excessive weight gain. Pasture Enjoyed by Kunekune pigs, The feed value of pasture declines which can cope with a higher rapidly with crop maturity. fibre diet. Provides exercise.
24 FEED TO SUCCEED
Feed Pros Cons Food waste Utilises a waste product to fill Must be heated to 100oC if it has pig bellies rather than bins. come into contact with meat. Pigs are more prone to salt poisoning than other animals, so must always have access to clean drinking water. Potatoes Low fibre content, so suitable Spouted potatoes are dangerous for feeding to older pigs to livestock, avoid green but need to be cooked. potatoes and soil contamination. Poor source of minerals. Maize grain The highest energy cereal grain. Lower and poorer in protein quality than wheat, low mineral status requires careful supplementation. Milk Good protein source for young pigs. Low in iron and vitamins A, D and E. Milk fed pork can be soft and fatty. Wheat High energy grain with Tends to be low in vitamins and average protein. minerals and amino acids.
25 Alternative feeds for pigs
There is a perception that pasture is Feeding table scraps along with pelleted natural and holistic but in reality the plants feed can be a cheap and economical way competing to grow in a sward give no to raise pigs on a small scale. However, it’s thought to their nutritional value relative important to be aware of the regulations to the animal that might eat them. Unlike that come with this practice, which is cattle and sheep, pigs other than slow generally termed as swill feeding. growing Kunekunes cannot be raised Under the 2005 biosecurity regulations, solely on pasture, because they have a it is a requirement that all meat (or food single stomach that does not cope well waste that has come into contact with with bulky, fi brous food. meat, or where it is unclear whether it has Pasture can help to complement their diet or hasn’t come into contact with meat) and provide natural foraging behaviour, must be heated to 100oC for 1 hour to which is considered benefi cial for their destroy any bacteria or viruses present. mental and physical welfare. Failure to comply with this regulation can mean that an individual can be fi ned – but Even good quality pasture delivers much more importantly, the wider New Zealand less digestible energy to pigs than it livestock industry can be at great risk. does metabolisable energy to ruminants. Grazing is normally restricted to non- Scraps must be stored securely and away lactating dry stock. from birds and animals. Pigs can be used to break in scrub ground and are considered natural ploughs by Fun fact – pigs have a vast some who use them as part of a rotation fi eld of vision but can’t look up. process. Pigs will turn over land whilst rooting for food, which may be useful if intending to develop land. Feeding table scraps to pigs
Adding quality scraps to a pig’s diet can stimulate appetite and can be a legitimate way to put a waste product to good use. The 2001 foot and mouth outbreak in the UK, during which more than 10 million sheep and cattle were killed to halt the disease, was thought to have originated on a pig farm where untreated, contaminated waste food had been fed to pigs.
26 FEED TO SUCCEED Mycotoxins and pigs
Mycotoxins are biological poisons It can be diffi cullt to identify the mycotoxin produced by fungi when they present because they are unevenly experience stressful conditions to distributed and laboratories have to know try to reduce the challenge from which toxin they are testing for. competing microbes. Accredited feed compounders give a lot of attention to the quality of the The presence of fungi on feeds does not raw materials – grains and proteins. necessarily mean that mycotoxins are Careful storage of ingredients, complex present (because the conditions had not formulations that spread the risk of a been right to stimulate the production of single ingredient dominating a diet and mycotoxins) and the absence of visible manufacturing protocols further reduce fungi on feeds does not mean they are the risk that compound feeds might free from mycotoxins (because the fungi contain mycotoxins when fed, provided it could have been stressed to the point of has been stored as recommended. In the elimination but the mycotoxins remain). event that mycotoxins are believed to be Generally, pigs and horses are more affecting pigs, the suspected feeds should sensitive to mycotoxins than ruminants be removed from the diet. Mycotoxin because the microbial population in the binders are available, which can be mixed rumen has a neutralising effect on many of with feeds if they really have to be fed. the mycotoxins they consume. Some mycotoxins in feeds associated with mild to severe disease in pigs: Fungus Toxins Clinical Signs Aspergillus sp Aflatoxins Poor growth, liver damage, jaundice, immunosuppression. Aspergillus sp and Ochratroxin and Citrinin Reduced growth rate, thirst, Penicillum sp kidney damage. Fusarium sp T2, DAS, DON (Vomitoxin) Reduced feed intake, immunosuppression, vomiting. Fusarium sp Zearalenone (F2 toxin) Infertility, anoestrus, rectal prolapse, pseudo pregnancy, early embryo mortality, delayed repeat matings. Fusarium sp Fumonisin Reduced feed intake, respiratory symptoms, fluid in lungs, abortion. Ergot Ergotoxin Reduced feed intake, gangrene of the extremities, agalactia due to mammary gland failure.
Always store feed in dry, clean conditions free from possible contamination from vermin and ideally out of direct sunlight, which can degrade some vitamins. Do not store feed in metal drums, which can sweat and cause moulding.
27 Housing
Pigs are very clean and if given neighbourhood and local covenants the opportunity, keep their toilet with respect to pig keeping may area away from where they lie need to be considered. Housing is down and eat. particularly important for younger animals with piglets (0-12 weeks) Pigs are intelligent and grow to be requiring a temperature range of 25- strong animals, so when building or 30oC in order to thrive. Older pigs (12-24 purchasing housing it should be strong weeks) are happy in a temperature and escape proof. range of 20-25oC and for breeding stock a temperature of 10-25oC is suitable. Pigs benefi t more than ruminants to Draughts, cold and overstocking create shelter, which preferably should be stress, which will contribute to poor pig warm, dry and draught-free. Ruminants health and feed conversion. like sheep and cattle have thicker coats but also they effectively have a Adequate airfl ow must be created to central heating system in the form of ensure that the air is as fresh as possible their rumen, which generates heat. Pigs without creating a draught on the pigs. are susceptible to disease related to Deep bedding can make a signifi cant overcrowding and can produce smells difference to how warm pigs are during that may offend neighbours. cold conditions. Signs that pigs are too cold include huddling together, pulling Galvanised tin is a versatile cladding legs and feet under themselves, increased material but to some, tin clad shelters activity, eating more and growing slower can look a bit untidy against some well- (until they eventually get sick and eat less). manicured lifestyle sections, so your
28 FEED TO SUCCEED
Signs that pigs are too hot include laying Pregnant sows can be kept in groups on their side, decreased activity, drinking but when they farrow they should be more water (unless it is warm), an increase provided with individual huts that are in respiration rates, seeking out a moist warm, dry and draught-free. Most outdoor area, an increase in rectal temperature and pigs are controlled by an electric fence, possibly death. about 30cm off the ground but a second The common phrase “sweating like a wire at 15cm may be necessary to control pig” is a misconception, as pigs have piglets as they approach weaning and limited sweat glands and benefi t from become more adventurous. Groups of shade in the summer and even wallowing pigs form a hierarchical social order, in wet mud during hot weather to keep so if litters can be kept together from cool. Pigs that are given access to the weaning through to fi nishing it will help to outdoors are best suited to free-draining reduce stress and negative impacts on soils, which do not get too wet and performance associated with establishing muddy in the winter and dry and dusty in a new order after mixing animals. An the summer. interesting environment with more space provides greater opportunity for shy pigs to avoid aggression. Fun fact – pigs are good swimmers and prefer water to Hygiene mud if you want to build your Hygiene is particularly important during the pigs a swimming pool rather period from birth to 12 weeks of age and than a wallow. all areas should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected with product like Virkon S. After 12 weeks of age housing should be kept It can be benefi cial to keep group sizes to as clean and dry as possible. 20 or less and maintain stocking densities to the recommendations below: Fun fact – a pig’s squeal can Weight and age m2 (per pig) be as loud as 115 decibels – Weaners to 20kg 0.22 about 3 decibels higher than a supersonic airliner. 20-45kg 0.35 45-60kg 0.50 60-85kg 0.70 Sows and boars 1.20
29 Animal health
Pigs should be free from pain, pigs is usually intestinal roundworms in injury and disease – by prevention young pigs. A range of injectable and oral or rapid diagnosis and treatment. wormers are available. Vaccinations may be necessary, especially if you have a A healthy pig grows well and reproduces large number of pigs. well at the appropriate age. It is important Lice mainly occur over the winter time to keep an eye on the general appearance as they breed more in cold weather. and behaviour of your pigs. Diarrhoea can The lice lay their eggs on the hair on the be caused by dietary upsets or infections. sides of the lower neck and the back of There are a range of viruses and bacteria the hind legs – the eggs look like cream that can cause pneumonia, bronchitis and coloured spots stuck on the hair. Mange nasal cavity infections. Rapid or laboured occurs more commonly in the summer breathing usually means a serious – it presents itself like crusty reddened illness and needs immediate attention. areas especially around the head and legs Coughing may be caused by bronchitis and may be diffi cult to distinguish from or pneumonia but may also be due to ringworm sometimes. lungworm infection. Pigs in New Zealand are free from There are four types of worms in pigs – many diseases that are present in other intestinal roundworms, stomach worms, countries. Good farm biosecurity helps to lungworms and kidney worms. The reduce the risks associated with contact most common problem with worms for with people, vehicles or other animals.
30 FEED TO SUCCEED Notes
31 Nobody is closer to your animals than you – and nobody understands their unique nutrition needs more than our qualifi ed NRM nutritionists. It’s their expertise that make our range of feeds some of the most scientifi cally advanced in the market. Plus having nationwide access to their in-depth knowledge will support your understanding of animal nutrition to improve the productivity and profi tability of your farming operation.
If you have any queries, please contact us. 0800 800 380 nrm.co.nz