Title: Boosting Weaned Pig Feed Intake through Sensory and Metabolic Strategies

The Challenge with Weaning Pig Feed Intake

Upon weaning, average pig feed intake drops significantly over the initial 3-4 days due to stress from the removal from the sow, transportation, introduction to a new environment, and additional factors. This reduction affects performance negatively.

You can visualize this impact on growth: while you might see an immediate slowdown in weight gn, what's often unseen is its effect on gut development and function. Low feed intake may lead to damage of intestinal lining or create a poor ecosystem for microbes within the intestine, inviting pathogen attacks.

The body's defense system uses energy from growth and mntenance agnst illness if a pig becomes sick. Even if it doesn't get sick, compromised gut health can dampen appetite and reduce feed consumption in a cyclical downward spiral.

Early, consistent pig feed intake is fundamental to growth, weight gn, and excellent gut function. You have the power to create a positive feedback loop by selecting feed that incorporates research-proven ingredients designed to boost feeding behavior and encourage pigs to return for more food-starting with their sense of smell.

Senses Drive Pig Feed Consumption

Imagine walking into Grandma's house on Thanksgiving Day. That unique bl of aromas triggers memories of past feasts. We can't help but enjoy the meal, even months later, just by recalling its taste and aroma.

Pigs imprint on early feed sources similarly, thanks to their enhanced sensory capabilities: they have 50-60 more tissue and nerve cells for processing flavors and odors than s do Le Dividich Seve, 2001; King Pluske, 2003. The right combination of ingredients in nursery feeds can drive pigs to the feeder and increase feed intake, even when unfamiliar.

Metabolic Feedback Drives Pig Feed Intake

While initial smell and taste may spark the first bite, chemistry plays a crucial role beyond our sense organs. As eating begins, receptors along the digestive tract prompt digestive function. They trigger saliva production for digestion's first step, insulin release to help pigs utilize energy from feed, and chemical responses that either stimulate appetite or reduce it.

At 21 days of age, a weaned pig's stomach resembles an egg about 2 ounces with roughly two-thirds capacity avlable for feed and water. That translates to about one ounce at most the young pig can eat at once.

A study by Purina Animal Nutrition suggests that -of-nursery weights are strong predictors of finishing weights, implying a direct link between early nursery performance and final outcomes Slide 17 in R D Data for Purina Pig Sourcing. Early feed intake patterns influence growth rates.

The Role of Sensory Input

Understanding how pigs perceive their environment through scent and taste is key to enhancing feed intake. The concept that feeding the right combination of ingredients at the right time, based on research-proven methods, can significantly impact pig performance underscores this knowledge Torrallardona Roura, 2009.

Roua and Tedo 2009 emphasized that voluntary feed intake in pigs is largely a sensory experience. By aligning feeding strategies with these natural instincts, we're better equipped to support their growth and health.

Incorporating this knowledge into your pig management practices can have profound impacts on overall performance outcomes.

References:

• Le Dividich, J., Seve, D. 2001. The role of sensory systems in feeding behavior: An overview. In Torrallardona, D. and Roura, E eds, Voluntary feed intake in pigs. Wageningen Academic Publishers, pp. 43-58.

• King, G., Pluske, J. 2003. Factors affecting pig feed intake and its regulation. In Torrallardona, D. and Roura, E eds, Voluntary feed intake in pigs. Wageningen Academic Publishers, pp. 125-140.

• Roua, E., Tedo, G. 2009. Feed appetence in pigs: An oronasal sensing perspective. In Torrallardona, D. and Roura, E eds, Voluntary feed intake in pigs. Wageningen Academic Publishers, pp. 105-124.

• Torrallardona, D., Roura, E. 2009. The diffuse chemosensory system. In Torrallardona, D. and Roura, E eds, Voluntary feed intake in pigs. Wageningen Academic Publishers, pp. 141-150.

To explore how sensory input impacts pig feed intake further or to discover innovative strategies for improving their performance, consult our comprehensive Swine Management Tips section.

Explore our related products, including Ambitine?, Purina UltraCare Complete Starters, and EcoCare 5-lb. Pak, designed with the latest research to support optimal growth and health in weaning pigs.

For more information or assistance regarding pig nutrition and management, contact us today.

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