Management measures to increase pig productivity

The pig industry is highly sensitive to both production cycles and economic conditions, leading to frequent fluctuations in the prices of live pigs and pork. These price swings can significantly impact the income of farmers, making it difficult to maintain stable operations. Due to recent losses in live pig sales, many farmers have scaled back or even stopped their operations entirely. Those who continue often reduce investments to cut costs, which leads to neglect in farm management and an artificial lowering of raising costs. This short-term strategy may seem beneficial now, but it risks long-term inefficiencies and lower productivity. Therefore, adopting scientific feeding and management practices is essential for continuously improving hog production and achieving better economic returns. Market conditions also influence the selection of hybrid pigs. For instance, pig prices dropped from 20 yuan per kilogram in January to around 14 yuan in the following month—a decrease of about 30%. This presents a favorable opportunity for farmers to buy pigs at a lower cost. Hybrid breeds such as Binh Duoc, Dachang, or three-way hybrids are popular among rural farmers due to their fast growth, efficient feed conversion, high lean meat content, and superior meat quality. Under similar management conditions, hybrid pigs typically reach market weight 10–15 days earlier than non-hybrids, with an additional income of approximately 20 yuan per head. Improving the uniformity of weaning weights plays a crucial role in pig performance. A common saying in rural areas, “one or two fewer students, one pound less weaned, and ten pounds less slaughter,” highlights the relationship between birth weight and growth rate. Weaning pigs at 45 days with a weight of 7–8 kg is equivalent to the weaning weight of pigs raised in large-scale farms at 35 days. This early weaning helps improve weight uniformity, increase total litter weight at six months, and ultimately raise slaughter rates and carcass grades. Thus, proper care of sows, nursing pigs, and nursery pigs is vital for maximizing productivity. The feeding strategy for growing pigs should be adjusted according to their growth stages. From 2 to 3 months of age (up to 40 kg), pigs require high-nutrient feed with 18%–21% protein. Between 15–30 kg, feed should focus on muscle and bone development, while between 30–60 kg, the protein level should be reduced to 15.5%–17%, with a feed-to-gain ratio of 2.3:1. After 60 kg, fat accumulation increases, so a feed with 15% protein and a ratio of 2.6:1 is recommended. Farmers with resources can add 2 kg of green feed daily to ensure adequate vitamins and minerals. Feeding schedules vary, with 4 meals per day before 60 kg and 3 meals after that. In the early stages, dry feed is used freely, while later on, controlled feeding improves feed efficiency and carcass quality. Environmental conditions play a key role in pig health and growth. Temperature, humidity, airflow, and lighting all affect pig performance. The ideal temperature for pigs weighing 20–50 kg is 18°C–21°C, while those over 50 kg prefer 16°C–20°C. When temperatures exceed 30°C, cooling measures like spraying water or increasing ventilation are necessary. During cold weather, heating systems or sealing the house can help maintain optimal conditions. Humidity levels should be kept between 45%–65% to prevent disease and promote healthy growth. Lighting should be natural, with 8–10 hours of light per day to avoid stress. Proper ventilation is essential to remove harmful gases and maintain air quality. Pig density also affects growth and feed efficiency. Nursery pigs require about 0.3–0.5 m² per head, while finishing pigs need 0.9–1.2 m². Adequate space reduces stress and fighting, promoting better weight gain. Water and feeding areas must be properly designed to ensure accessibility. Regular cleaning and disinfection are critical to prevent disease outbreaks. Pig houses should be kept dry, with good ventilation and hygiene to minimize pathogen spread. Epidemic prevention and regular disinfection are essential for maintaining herd health. Vaccination schedules should follow strict protocols, including swine fever, blue ear disease, foot-and-mouth disease, and others. Routine antibody monitoring ensures immunity levels are sufficient. Environmental hygiene involves daily sweeping, weekly disinfection with solutions like 0.5% peroxyacetic acid, and monthly use of chloralkali. Manure should be properly disposed of, and floors regularly disinfected with appropriate agents. These practices help control disease transmission and improve overall productivity.

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