Published on Nov. 7, 2017
Hypor’s Sow Management Tips: Total Preparation for Top Performance
Supplying top genetics for pork production at the least cost to ensure client success is at the core of Hypor’s business. Success with sow breeding begins with proper preparation for the next round. It starts with a balanced rearing period for gilts until 180 days, followed by regular hormonal stimulation through boar contact. From there, it’s a matter of focusing on what matters most.
- For insemination, they should achieve a minimum body weight of 145 kg and should reach the target weight by 240 days of age with a minimum of 15 mm of back fat.
- The week before insemination for gilts and the 4-5 day period between weaning and insemination for sows are very important. There should be twice daily intensive boar contact and intensive light for 16 hours a day. Feeding should be ad libitum with high energy content, and water should be provided ad libitum from the moment of weaning until insemination.
- Feed the gilts until farrowing to an appropriate level of back fat. After farrowing, the sow will lose back fat so you need to feed her until she reaches the appropriate level of back fat again for the next parity. This cycle should be used every time so the sow maintains an optimal body condition. Optimal feeding in farrowing is crucial. Please note that the definition of the appropriate level of back fat depends on the environment and conditions of the barn.
- Don’t rely on your eyes to perform body condition scoring. Back fat measurement or weighing gives you a better indication of body condition. You can then adjust the feeding scheme per individual based on the backfat measurement to properly prepare the sow for the next round.
- Aim for a room temperature of 18-20°C to maximize sow comfort. Even if you can’t achieve those exact numbers, try to simulate that temperature by additional heating or, if cooling is needed, adjust the air speed around the sow to create a comfortable environment.
Along with these tips, always ensure you are using high quality semen, whether you order it or prepare it yourself. While good semen will usually lead to good results, bad semen means you will never get the outcome you want regardless of what other steps you take. Prepare properly, and the performance you want is within your grasp.
If you have any questions about successful sow management, please contact your local Hypor representative for advice.
