SUCKLING DURATION, SOW BODY CONDITIONS AND EARLY POST-WEANING GROWTH PERFORMANCE IN MOO LATH PIGLETS

Abstract

This study evaluated the suckling period's influence on the body conditions of primiparous sows and the growth performance of newly weaned Moo Lath piglets. 30 primiparous sows and 231 piglets (Moo Lath x Duroc) were used. They were grouped based on weaning duration: at 28 (group A), 35 (B), 42 (C), 49 (D), and 56 (E) days of age. There was no significant difference (p = 0.179) in weight loss between the sows' group at weaning time. In contrast, the lost backfat thickness at the weaning time was significant (p < 0.034). Sows in group D lost twice more backfat (12.38 mm = 27 %) at weaning compared to group A sows (5.96 mm = 12 %), while sows in group E lost nearly three times more (15.14 mm = 29 %). This loss did not adversely effects sows' first service or conception rate after weaning. On the other hand, the difference in the piglets' weight gain in the 1st week after weaning was also not significantly observed. However, it significantly affects the piglets' weight gain between groups in the 2nd week. In conclusion, proper nutrition management for lactating sows is vital in maintaining sows' body conditions. Long-term weaning might be possible only in case a lactation pen was designed with enough space for a sow to leave her piglets for some time. And, to achieve the increased economic outcome for Lao farmers, Moo Lath piglets should be weaned between 5 to 6 weeks.

Keywords

• weaning period
• body condition
• post-weaning performance
• moo lath