MANUAL TN70 MANUAL Feed Manual TN70 Rearing gilts and sows TN70 November 2015-Version 1

MANUAL

Feed Manual TN70

Rearing gilts and sows

TN70

November 2015-Version 1

1. Introduction _______________________________ 4

2. The TN70 sow ______________________________ 5

3. Gilt rearing _____________________________ 7

3.1 Introduction ____________________________ 8

3.2 Insemination targets _____________________ 9

3.3 Weight development ____________________10

3.4 Feed and water intake curves _____________13

3.5 Nutrient recommendations _______________15

3.6 Summary table _________________________20

3.7 Management in the rearing facility _________22

3.7.1 Improving bone and leg quality _______22

3.7.2 Space requirements ________________23

3.7.3 Transfer of gilts to the sow herd ______24

3.8 Appendix _____________________________24

3.8.1 Weight development curves _________25

3.8.2 Two phase rearing program __________27

3.8.3 Mineral and vitamins requirements ____30

3.8.4 Amino acid recommendations ________31

Index

4. Sow feeding __________________________33

4.1 Introduction ___________________________34

4.2 Basic feeding strategies __________________34

4.3 Conditions for nutrient recommendations ___36

4.4 Nutrient recommendations _______________36

4.4.1 Flush diets ________________________36

4.4.2 Gestation ________________________37

4.4.3 Transition ________________________42

4.4.4 Lactation _________________________47

4.5 Management in the sow barns ____________53

4.5.1 Piglet birth weight _________________53

4.5.2 Managing body condition ___________54

4.5.3 Group housing of sows _____________56

4.6 Appendix _____________________________58

4.6.1 Backfat measurement instructions _____58

4.6.2 Mineral and vitamin recommendation __59

4.6.3 Amino acid recommendations ________61

4.6.4 Temperature adjustments ____________61

4

Understanding an animals’ genetic potential is of key importance when deciding on a nutritional feeding strategy that will promote a high number of weaned piglets during a sows’ productive lifetime. As the provider of the genetic material, Topigs Norsvin wants to assist our clients in achieving good production results at farm level, by providing guidelines on how to feed and manage these animals.

The aim of this feed manual is to provide a feeding guideline based on the nutritional requirements of the TN70 replacement gilt and sow. Topigs Norsvin conducts a variety of trials to determine the performance potential of our animals and uses this information to develop up-to-date and practical feed advice for all markets. A specially developed mathematical model, the Topigs Norsvin Feed Model, was used to estimate the animals’ daily nutritional requirements. The feeding manuals provide information on daily nutritional requirements, dietary recommendations, feed intake curves, growth curves and practical management advice. Animal performance can be influenced by a variety of factors; therefore applying the recommended feed intake curves to the letter will not always ensure the best performance or best economical results. To achieve optimal production performance you must ensure that the feed intake curves and/or diets are adapted to herd management and animal condition.

The feeding manuals are part of a continuous program to determine the precise nutrient requirements of Topigs Norsvin’s genetics. As more research data becomes available and feed technology improves, the more accurate we will be in predicting the requirements of our animals.

1. Introduction

November 2015-Version 1

Topigs Norsvin Nutrition Team

P.O. Box 86, 5268 ZH Helvoirt, The Netherlands

Telephone: +31 411 64 88 70

5

The TN70 is a unique female; balancing prolificacy, efficiency and productivity.

The TN70 is a hybrid maternal product combining the Large White Z-line and Norsvin Landrace L-Line. TN70 is a prolific female with exceptional weaning abilities and with an outstanding and unique contribution to finishing performance.

Unique characteristics of the TN70 include: • Superior productivity with a high number of born and weaned piglets.

• Prolific with uniform piglets.

• Superior underline quality and weaning capacity.

• High lean meat yield to heaver weights.

In short, the TN70 can be described as a dam line with a superior genetic input to the finisher in terms of feed efficiency, lean growth and excellent carcass quality. In combination with good reproductive and maternal traits this results in large litters with strong and vigorous piglets.

Weaning to1st ins.: 90 %

Total nr. born: >16 piglets

Total born alive: >15 piglets

Stillborn:

Gilt rearing

8

3.1 Introduction

Proper gilt development and management has a significant impact on the lifetime performance of all females. By managing the female correctly during development, her lifetime productivity will be maximized. The young gilt is the future of the pig production enterprise and must be treated with great care and attention. She must be fed and managed properly to help her achieve her full breeding potential. Proper replacement gilt management begins in the early stages of a gilt’s life and ends when the gilts are inseminated.

Proper gilt management includes correct housing environment, transportation, animal flow, preventative vaccination, adaptation, development, selection and nutrition. If any of these areas are compromised, it can affect the gilt’s lifetime productivity resulting in a decreased production performance and increased production cost.

The aim of this chapter is to provide our clients with the necessary information on how to rear and feed the future reproductive sow to ensure a high lifetime production performance.

The Topigs Norsvin goal in replacement gilt feeding is to support in muscle and skeletal development, while developing the gilt for maximum lifetime reproduction.

Topigs Norsvin’s definition of an ideal replacement gilt includes:

• Easy to handle during rearing.

• Strong structural development that will enable her to stay in the sow herd for at least seven parities.

• Easy to feed and manage in small and larger systems.

• At least 16 functional teats to support the larger litters.

3. Gilt rearing

9

3.2 Insemination targets

The target of the feed program is to develop the gilts in such a way that they will have the proper weight and confirmation at insemination. TN70 gilts develop and grow faster, are leaner and have an average to good appetite compared to other similar products available in the market.

The recommended insemination targets are given below:• Insemination weights, kg: 150 -160 kg• Backfat, mm: 12-14 mm• Age, d: 240 -250 days• Number of heats: Second or third heat• Lifetime growth rate (g/d): 600-660 g per day

Underdeveloped gilts (

10

3.3 Weight development

The main objective during rearing is to ensure controlled and steady growth and development of the gilts. The weight development of the TN70 replacement gilt needs to be monitored on a regular basis, and if necessary diets, and feeding strategies must be adjusted to ensure that gilts are developing within the given weight development ranges.

Osteochondrosis (OC) is a lameness-related condition which can result in premature culling of breeding sows. OC usually affects individuals at early growth stages. The recommended weight curves and feeding strategies of the TN70 replacement gilt takes this timeframe into account by avoiding too rapid growth in the youth phase (25 to 55 kg) but allowing the gilts the space to develop more natural, but still controlled in the later phases of the development trajectory. This growth strategy ensures a more optimal structural development during rearing.

Different raw materials are used around the world to feed gilts. The feeding strategies and diets fed to gilts also vary from farm to farm and country to country. These differences will have an impact on the growth rate and weight development of the rearing gilt. The recommendations for gilt weight development by Topigs Norsvin take these differences into account by dividing gilts into two growth groups: A “slower growing” and “faster growing” group.

The aim is to ensure that gilts develop between the lower and upper boundary. Measuring (weighing) of gilts on a regular basis will ensure that they develop as recommended. Feed programs must then be adjusted accordingly. Regardless of the gilts growth rate during rearing, the insemination targets set for the TN70 need to be reached before insemination. A suggested weight development curve for the TN70 is given below.

An easy printable version of the curve that can be used in the barn is available

in appendix 3.8.1.

Ensuring a sound structural development in gilts during rearing can be achieved

by feed restriction, but it is more preferable to control the growth development

through dietary energy restriction and phase feeding.

Slower growing (lower boundary) = Average

lifetime growth of 600g

Faster growing (upper boundary) = Average

lifetime growth of 660g

11

Table 01. Recommended weight development during rearing for the TN70 gilt

*Within service targets

Weeks Day Topigs Norsvin advice (kg) Slow growers (kg) Fast growers (kg)

9 63 25 24 26

10 70 29 28 30

11 77 34 33 35

12 84 39 38 40

13 91 44 43 45

14 98 49 48 51

15 105 55 53 57

16 112 61 59 63

17 119 67 65 69

18 126 73 71 75

19 133 79 76 81

20 140 85 82 87

21 147 91 88 94

22 154 97 94 100

23 161 102 99 106

24 168 108 105 111

25 175 114 110 117

26 182 119 115 123

27 189 124 121 128

28 196 129 125 133

29 203 134 130 138

30 210 139 135 143

31 217 143 139 147

32 224 147 143 152

33 231 151 147 156

34* 238* 155* 150* 160*

35* 245* 159* 154* 163

36* 252* 162* 157* 167

13

WATER

Preventing gilts from becoming excessively heavy before mating through feeding management is a challenge for many producers. While we know that controlled feeding of gilts is an effective means to prevent excessive body condition, this may be impractical for most producers.

The TN70 is less likely to develop an excessive body condition compared to moderate- or low-lean maternal gilts that have a higher potential for fat deposition and becoming overly conditioned. Therefore the TN70 gilt can be fed ad libitum during the rearing period, as long as the following conditions are met:

• Minimum three specially developed gilt rearing diets (three-phase feeding).• Additional minerals and vitamins to support lean growth and bone development.• Continuous monitoring of weight development to ensure that insemination targets are reached.

Research has shown that feeding gilts restrictively with a low energy diet during rearing can improve longevity. Likewise, Topigs Norsvin recommends that gilts are allowed to develop controlled but normally during rearing. This can be achieved by either lowering the energy level in the first phase diets, or by controlled feeding. Dietary restriction through lowering the energy levels is the more preferred method to control their growth, because it is important to keep the young gilts full and satisfied. Keeping the gilts full and satisfied is also a preventative measure to avoid stereotypic behaviour, fighting and tail biting.

An estimation of the daily feed- and water intake needs of the TN70 gilt is given in the table below (table 02). The feed intake curve can also be used as a reference for farms using computerized feeding systems and farms that prefer to feed gilts according to a daily feed allowance.

3.4 Feed and water intake curves

Water is essential for all life, and is the nutrient that is required in the largest quantity by swine. Current research provides only estimated water requirements because there are many different factors that can influence the amount of water required by rearing gilts on a daily basis. As a general rule: rearing gilts will consume 2.5 to 4.0 times more water than feed.

It is recommended to not change diets and feeders at the same time.The combination of a new diet and a change in feeding system during rearing may result in a reduced feed intake and a delay in the weight-and backfat thickness development of the animals. When a new diet and/or a new feeding system are introduced into a farm, daily monitoring of the gilts feed intake becomes highly important.

AS A GENERAL RULE: REARING GILTS WILL CONSUME 2.5 TO 4.0 TIMES MORE WATER THAN FEED.

Ad libitum feeding programThe feed program recommended in this manual is related to the recommended feed curves and weight development curve. When gilts are fed ad libitum it is very important to monitor their weight development. In some cases it might be necessary to adjust the dietary levels of the rearing diets to ensure gilts develop within the given weigh guidelines.

14

Table 02. Recommended feed and water intake for the TN70 during rearing

THE RECOMMENDED

FEED CURVE CAN BE

USE IN PROGRAMS

WHERE GILTS ARE

FED USING

A COMPUTERIZED

FEEDING SYSTEM.

THE FEED CURVE IS

A MODELLED FEED

CURVE, DEVELOPED

TO REACH

THE WEIGHT TARGETS.

THE WATER

REQUIREMENT

IS BASED

ON THE REFERENCE

FROM NRC, 2012.

THE RECOMMENDATION

IS THE MINIMUM

REQUIREMENT

PER GILT PER DAY.

Weeks Day Feed Intake (kg) Water Intake (L)

9 63 1.1 3.2

10 70 1.3 3.9

11 77 1.5 4.5

12 84 1.6 5.2

13 91 1.8 5.8

14 98 2.0 6.3

15 105 2.1 6.9

16 112 2.2 7.4

17 119 2.3 7.8

18 126 2.4 8.3

19 133 2.5 8.7

20 140 2.6 9.1

21 147 2.6 9.5

22 154 2.7 9.8

23 161 2.7 10.1

24 168 2.7 10.4

25 175 2.8 10.6

26 182 2.8 10.8

27 189 2.8 11.0

28 196 2.8 11.2

29 203 2.8 11.3

30 210 2.8 11.4

31 217 2.9 11.5

32 224 2.9 11.5

33 231 2.9 11.6

34 238 2.9 11.6

35 245 2.9 11.7

36 252 2.9 11.7

000

030

060

090

0120

0150

WATER INTAKE

FEED INTAKE

15

3.5 Nutrient recommendations

Proper feeding management during rearing that ensures a good body condition and soundness of legs and feet, is important for a gilts overall reproductive performance. The nutrient recommendations and feeding strategies for gilt rearing in this manual are limited to the period from 25kg to 160kg live weight. The Topigs Norsvin nutrient recommendations for gilt development are designed to meet nutrient demands for adequate protein growth and to maximize the productive life of the gilt. They are not designed to maximize average daily gain (ADG), as would be the goal of a commercial feeding program.

Topigs Norsvin recommends feeding a three-phase dietary program to gilts, starting from 25kg until first service. A three-phase feeding program offers the flexibility to better feed to the needs of the gilts, but also to control and steer their development better. A three-phase dietary program offers the possibility to feed the gilts more restrictively during the earlier stages of rearing, and then diets with more digestible fibre can be used in later phases ensuring the satiety of the animals while allowing them to develop normally. For some producers using a three-phase dietary program might be impractical, therefore we have also included recommendations for a two-phase feeding program in appendix 3.8.2.

Most commercial pig diets are either corn-soybean based or wheat-barley-soybean based. Pigs fed well-balanced wheat-barley-soybean based diets can perform as well as those fed corn-soybean diets, the main difference being the minimal energy levels reachable when using these two different feed sources. The dietary recommendations for gilt rearing in this manual take these differences into account, by providing a minimum and maximum level for each nutrient. The minimum nutrient levels represent the wheat-barley-soybean markets and the maximum nutrient levels represent the corn-soybean markets. The ratio between Lysine and Energy are similar for both feed markets.

The nutrient recommendations are given in the table 03.

Recommended program for rearing of the TN70 gilt:

• The rearing program should start at 25 kg and end at first service.

• Use a minimum of three dietary phases during the rearing period.

• Ensure that there is a smooth transition between the diets.

• Start flushing gilts at least 10 to 14 days before first service.

• The feed program (dietary recommendations) is related to the given weight and feed intake targets.

16

Table 03. The dietary recommendations for a three phase rearing program

1Recommended available and digestible phosphorus levels are based on diets formulated without the use of Phytase. If Phytase is used, then these phosphorus levels must be readjusted.

Weight Range Nutrients Unit Min* Max*

25-55 kg(Age 9 to 15w)

Net Energy MJ/kg 9.6 9.9

Lysine SID g/kg 9.6 9.9

SID Lys/NE g/MJ 1.0 1.0

Calcium g/kg 8.0 8.5

Available Phosphorus1 g/kg 3.8 4.0

Digestible Phosphorus1 g/kg 2.9 3.0

56-100 kg(Age 15 to 23w)







100 kg - Ins(Age 23 to 34 + w)







Flush feeding (10 to 14 days before service)







Rearing 3

Flushing

Rearing 2

Rearing 1

*MIN = WHEAT-BARLEY-SOYBEAN MARKET

*MAX = CORN-SOYBEAN MARKET

18

Figure 01. The dietary recommendations for a three-phase rearing program

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

160

180

9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

160

180

Age (weeks)

Wei

ght (

Kg)

Rearing 1 Rearing 2

19

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

160

180

9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

160

180

Age (weeks)

Rearing 3 Flushing

20

Diets Weeks Day Weight Feed Intake

Kg Kg

Rearing 1

9 63 25 1.1

10 70 29 1.3

11 77 34 1.5

12 84 39 1.6

13 91 44 1.8

14 98 49 2.0

15 105 55 2.1

Rearing 2

16 112 61 2.2

17 119 67 2.3

18 126 73 2.4

19 133 79 2.5

20 140 85 2.6

21 147 91 2.6

22 154 97 2.7

23 161 102 2.7

Rearing 3

24 168 108 2.7

25 175 114 2.8

26 182 119 2.8

27 189 124 2.8

28 196 129 2.8

29 203 134 2.8

30 210 139 2.8

31 217 143 2.9

32 224 147 2.9

33 231 151 2.9

34 238 155 2.9

Flushing35 245 159 2.9

36 252 162 2.9

3.6 Summary table

Table 04. Summary table for rearing of the TN70 gilt

21

Water Intake NE, MJ/day SID Lysine, g/day

L Min Max Min Max

3.2 10.6 10.9 10.6 10.9

3.9 12.1 12.4 12.1 12.4

4.5 14.0 14.4 14.0 14.4

5.2 15.8 16.3 15.8 16.3

5.8 17.4 18.0 17.4 18.0

6.3 18.9 19.5 18.9 19.5

6.9 20.2 20.9 20.2 20.9

7.4 20.7 21.6 17.6 18.5

7.8 21.7 22.6 18.4 19.4

8.3 22.5 23.5 19.1 20.1

8.7 23.2 24.2 19.7 20.7

9.1 23.8 24.9 20.2 21.3

9.5 24.2 25.2 20.5 21.6

9.8 24.8 25.8 21.1 22.1

10.1 25.1 26.2 21.3 22.4

10.4 24.3 25.7 17.0 18.1

10.6 24.9 26.3 17.4 18.5

10.8 25.1 26.5 17.6 18.7

11.0 25.3 26.7 17.7 18.8

11.2 25.4 26.8 17.8 18.9

11.3 25.5 26.9 17.9 19.0

11.4 25.6 27.0 17.9 19.1

11.5 25.7 27.1 18.0 19.1

11.5 25.8 27.2 18.0 19.2

11.6 25.8 27.3 18.1 19.2

11.6 25.9 27.3 18.1 19.3

11.7 25.9 27.3 18.1 19.3

11.7 25.9 27.4 18.2 19.3

22

3.7 Management in the rearing facility

In this manual, we define the rearing period from 25kg to first service. During rearing, stress must be kept to a minimum, especially before insemination. Proper handling and housing management during rearing is as important as proper nutrition. The aim of a good gilt management program should be to optimize the animals’ reproductive performance and longevity. More detailed information on management during rearing is available in the “Topigs Norsvin Gilt Management Manual”.

3.7.1 Improving bone and leg quality

It has been the common practice in many countries to rear replacement gilts using finisher or gestation diets. Maximizing lean growth by using a finisher diet could lead to osteochondrosis and leg weakness and possibly result in an increase in the herds replacement rate. This is partly due to the vitamin and trace element levels in finisher diets which do not support optimal bone development. Young animals are often culled due to locomotive problems such as lameness, osteochondrosis and poor claw health. The current changes to sow group housing systems will require animals with a sound leg and feet development. Topigs Norsvin gives the following recommendations with regards to improving bone and leg quality during rearing:

•Prevent excessive growth rates: Follow the given recommendations for an average lifetime growth rate of 600-660 g/d. Monitor the weight development of the gilts closely by using the given weight development graphs. Make the necessary adjustments to the diets and feed programs to ensure the gilt develops within the ideal weight boundaries.

•Use more available mineral sources: It has been shown that the inclusion of highly available trace elements improves gilt performance and results in better conformation and skeletal development. Consider the differences in the availability of essential minerals between different mineral sources.

•Optimize the dietary electrolyte balance (dEB): If a sow’s diet has an overload of anions (-) compared to cations (+) the risk of acidosis increases. If the incidence of acidosis is prolonged, less bone formation and even bone degradation will take place because of calcium mobilization.

•Correct Calcium and Phosphorus levels (ratio): The calcium and phosphorus requirements for complete bone integrity are higher than the requirements for optimal growth rate and feed efficiency. Follow the given recommendations and ensure that any readjustments are done correctly when using Phytase.

•Minerals and vitamins: The mineral and vitamin needs of the reproducing female is greater than that of finishers. For gilts entering the breeding herd, the typical vitamin premix in the finishing diet should be replaced with a ”breeder” vitamin premix. This premix should contain increased levels of the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K and the water-soluble vitamins with special attention to choline, biotin and folic acid that are relatively low or absent in typical finishing diets.

•Flooring quality: Good claw health requires good flooring. The floor must be kept dry and non-slippery in order to provide good grip and to reduce the risk of injuries.

23

3.7.2 Space requirements

Adequate space is required to allow gilts to stimulate each other as they come into oestrus. The ideal number of gilts per pen ranges from 6 to 10. This will also ensure optimal boar-to-gilt contact during the heat detection process. Sufficient space is also important for skeletal development.

Insufficient floor space and crowded feeding areas could increase the occurrence of antagonistic behaviour among gilts. The required space per gilt depends on the type of feeding system, group size and the pen layout. The largest/oldest gilt should be used as the standard when calculating space requirements.

The minimum floor and feeder spaces are given below:

Weight of Pig (kg)Trough/Hopper Length/Pig

Restrict feed* (mm) Ad Lib Fed (mm)

5 100 75

10 130 33

15 150 38

35 200 50

60 240 60

90 280 70

120 300 75

+120 +350 +75

Each country established a wide range of detailed legislative provisions concerning the welfare and minimum standards for farm animals. These recommendations need to be taken into account and need to act as the minimum standards.

* As set by the Welfare of Farmed Animals Regulations 2003.

• 25-100 kg life weight =1.1 m²



Floor*

Feeder

Table 05. Minimum feeder space recommendations

* Space including feeder

24

3.7.3 Transfer of gilts to the sow herd

After the rearing phase gilts need to be transferred/moved into the sow herd. Via a well-designed protocol for quarantine and a planned adaptation of the gilts, they will be ready for insemination. In order to increase the incidence of oestrus and improved lifetime performance, gilts need to be adapted and acclimatized to their new environment.

During rearing, gilts are normally housed in groups and are not used to be kept in individual crates. In most cases the feeding systems in groups vs. crates are also different. All these changes will increase the level of stress and discomfort for the gilts. The biggest issue arises when gilts are serviced during this period of increased stress and discomfort. Research has shown that servicing gilts during stressful periods has led to decreased farrowing rates, fewer live born piglets and an increased rate of return and abortions.

Topigs Norsvin recommends that gilts are moved to individual crates at least two weeks before first service. This will allow the gilts more time to adjust to the new housing system. This will also allow sufficient time to implement a good flush feeding program. The gilts should be moved again five days before expected insemination to a dedicated insemination area (same as the one used for newly weaned sows), with the correct lighting. This has shown to further increase the strength and length of the heat, which results in improved performance.

• Move gilts to crates at least two weeks before first service.

• Heat detection should be registered when gilts are still in groups, to ensure that they are serviced at second or third oestrus.

• Start flushing the gilts as soon as they are housed in individual crates.

• Move gilts preferably to a section where only gilts are housed.

• Move gilts again five days before first service to a dedicated insemination area, with the correct lighting.

• Light intensity five days before insemination should be higher than 100 Lux at eye level of the gilt.

3.8 Appendix

3.8.1 Weight development curves

Figure 02. Page 25.

020406080100

120

140

160

180

9 10

11

12

13

14

15

16

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Fig

ure

02

. Eas

y to

rec

ord

wei

ght

curv

e fo

r th

e TN

70 g

ilt

27

Flushing

Rearing 2

Rearing 1

3.8.2 Two phase rearing program

Table 06. The dietary recommendations for a two phase rearing program


Weight Range Nutrients Unit Min* Max*

25-65 kg(Age 9 to 17w)







66 kg - Ins(Age 17 to 34 + w)







Flush feeding (10 to 14 days before service)







*MIN = WHEAT-BARLEY-SOYBEAN MARKET

*MAX = CORN-SOYBEAN MARKET

28

Figure 03. The dietary recommendations for a two-phase rearing program

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

160

180

9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

160

180

Age (weeks)

Wei

ght (

Kg)

Rearing 1

29

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

160

180

9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

160

180

Age (weeks)

Rearing 2 Flushing

30

Gilt Rearing

25-55 kg 55-100 kg 100 kg - Ins

Min Max Min Max Min Max

Fat soluble vitamins

VIT, A (IU) 10000 10000 10000

VIT, D3 (IU) 2000 2000 2000

VIT, E (IU) 40 40 40

VIT, K3 (mg) 1 1 1

Water soluble vitamins (mg)

VIT, B1 (Thiamine) 1 2 1 2 1 2

VIT, B2 (Riboflavin) 4 5 4 5 4 5

NICOTINIC ACID 15 50 15 50 15 50

PANTHOTENIC ACID 15 30 15 30 15 30

VIT, B6 (Pyridoxine) 1 3 1 3 1 3

VIT, B12 (mcg) 30 50 30 50 30 50

FOLIC ACID 3 4 3 4 3 4

BIOTIN (mcg) 300 500 300 500 300 500

CHOLINE 500 750 500 750 500 750

3.8.3 Mineral and Vitamins requirements

Table 07. Vitamin requirements for the TN70 gilt

Gilt Rearing

25-55 kg 55-100 kg 100 kg - Ins


Na, % 0.20 0.25 0.15 0.25 0.15 0.25

K, % 1.1 1.1 1.1

Mg, % 0.25 0.25 0.25

Fe, ppm 100 100 100

I, ppm 1.5 1.5 1.5

Se, ppm 0.3 0.5 0.3 0.5 0.3 0.5

Cu, ppm 150 15 15

Zn, ppm 100 100 100

Mn, ppm 40 40 40

Cl, % 0.15 0.15 0.15

Table 08. Mineral requirement for the TN70 gilt

31

3.8.4 Amino acid recommendations

The amino acid levels are normally expressed in relation to the level of Lysine in the diet, since this is the first limiting amino acid. The calculated digestibility coefficients will differ between feed ingredients; therefore, when formulating more complex diets, we recommend that standardized ileal digestible values are used. The amino acid levels displayed in table 09 are given as SID (standardized ileal digestible).

Table 09. Recommended amino acid (SID) ratios for the TN70 gilt

*Standardized digestible AA contents were calculated using the estimated standardized digestibility coefficients from InraPorc® (2009).

Remarks

• Minerals and vitamins are based on the recommendations from DSM (OVM, 2012).

• Mineral and vitamin inclusion levels are to maximise bone mineralisation.

• The recommended vitamin standards are determined in amounts added without regard to the vitamin content of the basic feed.

• The recommended mineral levels are presented as total amount in the feed.

• The recommendation of Topigs Norsvin is to use organic or chelated minerals as recommended by the suppliers.

• The target dEB (Na+K-Cl) for gilt diets are 180-240 mEq/kg feed to ensure maximum bone mineralisation.

Amino Acids* (Ratio) Rearing 1 Rearing 2 Rearing 3

Lysine 100 100 100

Met + Cys 65 65 65

Tryptophan 20 20 19

Threonine 72 72 72

Valine 75 75 75

Isoleucine 65 65 65

Leucine 100 100 100

Histidine 30 30 30

Phenylalanine 60 60 60

Sow feeding

34

4.1 Introduction

Nutrition is one of the key components to ensure that the modern sow achieves her genetic potential for (re)production. The nutritional demands of the modern gestating and lactating sow and her litter have changed significantly over time. Todays genetic advancements have resulted in feed efficient, fast growing and leaner pigs. However, this progress has also created new challenges when it comes to feeding the modern sow. Nutrient supply, in the form of amino acids and energy, must be designed to optimize the reproductive performance and to maintain optimal condition (body reserves) for the sows entire productive life. Diets should also be optimized to ensure nutritional welfare and comfort to the animals and also minimize the environmental impact through excretions. To achieve this, a precise adjustment of the feeding level and the feed composition according to the performance level of the sows is required.

The TN70 sows are leaner and have a larger mature body size than other Topigs Norsvin sow products. The TN70 female grows faster, reaches puberty at heavier weights, are mated leaner and have less body reserves during her lifetime production cycle. However, managing the TN70 is not very different than the management of any other sow type. The difference is in how closely these management practices have to be followed in order to optimize production. More focus is needed on maintaining body fat and weight during the reproductive cycle and to minimize fat and weight fluctuations. By following the basic feed advice of Topigs Norsvin for the TN70 sow, maximum productivity can be reached.

4.2 Basic feeding strategies

The objective of the feeding program for the TN70 sow is to: • Maximize the number of pigs per litter.• Optimize piglet birth weight and uniformity.• Maximize number of litters per year per sow.• Maximize lactation yield.• Optimize longevity and lifetime productivity.

The management of lean deposition and fat deposition is of major importance when feeding leaner sow genotypes. Lean genotypes must maintain a certain level of fatness throughout their breeding life to enhance their lifetime production. This can be accomplished by minimizing lactation condition losses and enable gestation fat recovery. To minimize lactation condition losses, nutrient intake during lactation needs to be maximized. Diets should be balanced so that all nutrients are provided in the correct proportions for nutritional requirements and energy balance.

If more backfat is desired during gestation, research has shown that high-lean reproductive females can be fed a slightly deficient amino acid diet, which will moderate lean deposition and increase fat deposition; and possibly improve longevity.

The feeding strategy for the TN70 sow is based on the body condition targets and the stage of production. The feeding strategies are developed to provide the correct nutrient levels, at the right time to meet the sow’s daily nutritional requirements. Topigs Norsvin recommends to feed a minimum of five well developed sow diets. The practicalities of feeding different diets are always a concern. Alternatively, the basic sow diets may be fed with ‘top-dressing’ supplements, to meet their daily needs.

4. Sow feeding

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Wean to mating

Early Gestation

Mid GestationLate

Gestation

TransitionDiet

Lactation

1

2

3

4

5

THE RECOMMENDED FIVE SOW DIETS

The recommended sow diets:

1. Flush diet: Fed from weaning to mating to stimulate ovum development.

2. Gestation Diet 1: Backfat stimulating diet (lower AA to energy ratio). Fed after insemination (day 5 of pregnancy) till day 84 of gestation or fed to older parity sows.

3. Gestation Diet 2: Late gestation diet to enhance piglet birth weights. Fed from day 85 till day 110 of gestation or fed to first parity sows.

4. Transition Diet: Fed during the transition period between gestation and lactation (from day 110 of gestation till 2-3 days after farrowing).

5. Lactation Diet: To maximize feed intake and milk yield during lactation. Fed for the duration of the lactation period.

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4.3 Conditions for nutrient recommendations

To obtain the maximum productive potential from the TN70 it is fundamental to manage the sow’s body condition, to optimize the daily amount of feed offered and to supply the correct dietary requirement levels during all stages of production.

Understanding the different factors that affect nutrient requirements and feed intake can assist in developing a successful sow feeding program.

The feeding advice for the TN70 is based on the following basic assumptions: •Dry mash diet. •Controlled feed program.•Conventional health.•Optimal housing conditions.•Thermal neutral conditions.

Most commercial pig diets are either corn-soybean based or wheat-barley-soybean based. Pigs fed well- balanced wheat-barley-soybean based diets can perform as well as those fed corn-soybean diets and the main difference is the minimal energy levels reachable when using these two different feed sources. The dietary recommendations for sows in this manual take these differences into account, by providing a minimum and maximum level for each nutrient. The minimum nutrient levels represent the wheat- barley-soybean markets and the maximum nutrient levels represent the corn-soybean markets. The daily nutrient requirements of sows are however similar, independent of any market or available raw materials.

4.4 Nutrient recommendations

4.4.1 Flush diets Short term, high level feeding (flushing) after weaning until mating will increase the quality of the oocytes in breeding animals. Flush feeding gilts and sows have been shown to increase plasma levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and the pulse frequency of luteinizing hormone (LH), suggesting that it enhances oocyte quality (size and uniformity) by stimulating the secretion of gonadotropins.

Important factors to consider:•Energy and nutrient intake should be maximized before mating by maintaining a high feed intake

level until the sow is serviced. Sows must follow an ad libitum feed schedule from weaning to service.

•Specialized flush feed must be fed during this phase. The energy source of the diet must originate from a carbohydrate constituent (especially starch and sugars). It is not recommended to use a standard lactation feed.

•Dextrose can have positive effects on piglet vitality when incorporated into the flush diet. Ensure that the sows receive a minimum of 150 grams of Dextrose per day.

•The ratio between essential amino acids and Lysine should follow the recommendations given for the lactating sow.

•It is recommended to follow the vitamins and mineral recommendations of the lactation sow.

•Additional minerals and vitamins can also be provided during the flush period. Higher levels of Vit A, Vit E, Vit B12, Folic acid, Cobalt and Chromium have shown to have a positive effect on reproduction.

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Table 10. Nutrient recommendations for a flush diet

NutrientsWheat-Barley-Soy Corn-Soy

Min Max Min Max

ADFI, kg/d 3.5 4.5 3.0 4.0

Net Energy, MJ/kg 9.5 9.7 9.7 9.9

SID-Lysine, g/kg 5.9 6.1 6.1 6.2

SID Lys: NE ratio 0.63 0.63 0.63 0.63

Starch and sugar, g/kg 400 450

Ca, g/kg 7.0 7.5 7.5 8.0

Available P1, g/kg 3.4 3.6 3.6 3.8

Digestible P1, g/kg 2.5 2.7 2.7 2.9


• Develop a special flush feed, that is 100% focused on improving reproduction performance from weaning to mating.

• Do not use a lactation feed as a flush feed. Lactation feeds are developed to achieve maximum milk production, not to flush sows.

• Feeding sows ad libitum requires feeding more often per day. Feed at least three to four times a day smaller portions to increase total daily feed intake from weaning till mating.

• Sows will naturally reduce their feed intake when they are in heat. Reduce feed allowance to normal levels to reduce wastage.

• Provided water ad libitum, but prevent wet floors.

4.4.2 Gestation

Proper feeding of gestating animals directly benefit the lactation performance and piglet vitality. It is important that gestating sows receive enough amino acids and energy to support body maintenance, body recovery from previous lactation, and fetal and mammary gland growth (especially during the last trimester). During gestation, sufficient body reserves must be accumulated to compensate for eventual nutritional deficits that may occur in the following lactation period.

During the first six weeks of gestation (0-45 days), the sow uses most of the feed for maintenance and to regain lost condition. Sows can loose on average 2-4 mm of backfat (measured at the P2 position), during lactation. Depending on the sow’s condition at weaning, the desired feed level of the individual sow must be determined after mating. On day 84, the sow should have regained the adequate body condition, weight and backfat; so that the feed surplus can be used for piglet growth.

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Topigs Norsvin recommends to feed a minimum of two gestation diets. Feeding two gestation diets, offers the possibility to better meet the daily demands of the gestating sows, but also offers the possibility to further enhance sow productivity and longevity.

The main difference between the two gestation diets, is in the ratio between the amino acids and energy. The two gestation diets are described as follows:

Gestation 1 (Lower amino acid to energy ratio)• Backfat stimulating and body weight recovery diets.• Fed directly after insemination till day 84 of gestation.• Can also be fed as single gestation diet to older parity sows (>3rd parity).

Gestation 2 (Higher amino acid to energy ratio)• Improvement in piglet birth weights.• Fed from day 85 till day 110 (or until transfer to the farrowing unit).• Can also be fed as single gestation diet to young sow (

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TN70

Cycle 1 2/3 ≥4

Net Energy, MJ/d1 19.5 23.6 25.1

SID-Lysine, g/d1 13.1 12.8 12.5

SID-Lys/NE, g/MJ 0.67 0.54 0.49

TN70

Cycle 1 2/3 ≥4

Net Energy, MJ/d1 21.2 23.1 24.2

SID-Lysine, g/d1 14.0 11.4 10.3

SID-Lys/NE, g/MJ 0.66 0.49 0.42

TN70

Cycle 1 2/3 ≥4

Net Energy, MJ/d1 26.1 26.9 28.7

SID-Lysine, g/d1 20.4 16.5 15.3

SID-Lys/NE, g/MJ 0.78 0.61 0.53

Daily nutritional requirements

Table 12. Daily nutritional requirements of gestating sows during three phases*

0-49 days

50-84 days

85-115 days

1Net energy (NE), Metabolizable energy (ME) and standardized ileal digestible (SID) lysine requirements are expressed as the amount required per day to achieve optimal performance.

NE=ME X 0.74 (The conversion factor could be different for each country).

*Maternal body weight recovery is included in the calculations (75 % body weight recovery between 0-49 days and 20 % body weight recovery between 50-84 days).

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Diet recommendations

Table 13. Nutrient recommendations for gestation diets

Wheat-Barley-Soybean diets with energy levels of 8.8-9.1 NE MJ/kg*

Feed curves

By dividing the energy level of the diet by the daily nutrient requirements of the sow during the three phases, a proper feed scheme can be derived. The examples of feed curves below are based on the example diet calculations. The feed curves need to be further adapted to ensure that sows regain the condition lost during the previous lactation, but also to reach the ideal condition target before entering the next lactation. This is best achieved by feeding each individual sow a well-balanced diet and basing daily feed allowances on an estimation of the sow’s body weight and backfat thickness. The Topigs Norsvin Sow Feed Monitor was developed to assist clients to determine the ideal feed curves based on their local conditions.

Corn-Soybean diets with energy levels of 9.0-9.3 NE MJ/kg*

NutrientsGestation 1 Gestation 2

Min Max Min Max

Net Energy, MJ/kg 8.8 9.0 8.9 9.1

SID-Lysine, g/kg 4.8 4.9 5.5 5.6

SID Lys: NE ratio 0.55 0.55 0.62 0.62

Ca, g/kg 7.0 7.5 7.5 8.0

Available P1, g/kg 3.3 3.6 3.6 3.8


NutrientsGestation 1 Gestation 2

Min Max Min Max

Net Energy, MJ/kg 9.0 9.2 9.1 9.3

SID-Lysine, g/kg 4.9 5.1 5.6 5.8

SID Lys: NE ratio 0.55 0.55 0.62 0.62

Ca, g/kg 7.5 8.0 8.0 8.5

Available P1, g/kg 3.6 3.8 3.8 4.0



*If only one diet can be fed during gestation, our recommendation is to follow the guideline given for gestation 1.


*If only one diet can be fed during gestation, our recommendation is to follow the guideline given for gestation 1.

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Table 14. Recommended feed curves for the TN70 (kg)

Days/Cycle

TN70

1 2/3 ≥4


0-49 2.3 2.4 2.6 2.7 2.8 2.9

50-84 2.5 2.6 2.5 2.6 2.6 2.7

85-110 3.0 3.1 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3

Days/Cycle

TN70

1 2/3 ≥4


0-49 2.3 2.4 2.6 2.7 2.8 2.9

50-84 2.5 2.6 2.5 2.6 2.6 2.7

85-110 3.0 3.1 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3

Wheat-Barley-Soybean Markets

Corn-Soybean Markets

Corrections for body condition losses

Gestating multiparous sows should be fed according to body condition lost during the previous lactation, so that most sows will be in the desired condition before being transferred to the farrowing crates. In other words, this means increasing the feed allowance for skinny sows and restricting the feed allowance somewhat for fat sows. Use the Topigs Norsvin Sow Feed monitor to determine the most appropriate feed curve based on body condition of the TN70. The Topigs Norsvin Sow Feed monitor can be found at feedmonitor.topigsnorsvin.com.

The TN70 sow looses on average 9 % of her maternal body weight and 2-4 mm of her backfat during lactation. The average percentage loss is already included in the normal feed curves (table 14). If sows are loosing more or less body weight during lactation, the gestation feed curve should be adapted to the Skinny or Fat feed curve. On day 85 of gestation, all sows should have regained their adequate body condition, weight and back fat, so that the feed surplus can be used for growth of the piglets in the uterus.

WATER

In the beginning of gestation, sows must be supplied with a minimum of 12 litres of water per animal per day. During advanced stages of gestation, the water requirement per sow should increase to a minimum of 17 litres per day. In group housing systems, sows drink less water and need to drink a minimum of 12 litres of water per sow per day.

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4.4.3 Transition

The transition from late gestation to lactation is crucial for the sow and her offspring; because colostrum is being synthesized pre-partum, nutrients are reallocated from the conceptus to the mammary tissue, massive mammary and fetus growth occurs and milk production is being initiated. The period around farrowing is also critical for the sow because she needs to cope with numerous changes such as moving from a group to an individual pen, changes in diets and the birth of piglets. These environmental and nutritional changes can influence the parturition process, which includes the initial start-up of milk production. The process of parturition is energetically demanding and a larger litter size may increase those energy demands. If the energy demand of the sow during farrowing is not met it might result in reduced contractions of the uterus increasing the risk of asphyxia and stillbirth.

Wheat-Barley-Soy Corn-Soy

Skinny2 Normal1 Fat3 Skinny2 Normal1 Fat3

0-49 +300g 2.75 -200g +300g 2.65 -200g

50-84 +200g 2.65 -100g +200g 2.55 -100g

85-110 +100g 3.15 0 +100g 3.05 0

Table 15. Feeding curves for multiparous sows, based on body condition losses (kg/day)

1Normal, Feed curve, under normal conditions, where the sow looses 9 % of her body weight.

²Skinny, Feed curve, if a sow is loosing 18 % body weight during lactation.

3Fat, Feed curve, if a sow is loosing no body weight during lactation.

Main advantages of a transition diet:

• Improved start-up of the milk production in the sow.

• Reduce constipation around farrowing.

• Lower risk of mastitis, metritis and agalactia (MMA) and udder congestion.

• Improved transition between the lower nutrient dense gestation diet to the higher nutrient dense lactation diet.

• Improved piglet vitality and survivability.

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Practical considerations for a good transition diet/phase:

• Move sows to the farrowing crates at least 5-7 days before expected farrowing.

• Start feeding the transition diet at least 4-7 days before expected farrowing.

• Feed the transition diet until 2 to 3 days after farrowing. This also depends on the length of the lactation period: - 21 days - Until 2 days after farrowing - 28 days - Until 2-3 days after farrowing - 35 days - Until 3-4 days after farrowing

• Ensure that similar raw materials are being used in the gestation, transition and lactation diets to minimize the stress of a diet change.

• Use the right fiber sources during gestation, transition and lactation. Some fibers will give a more laxative effect, whereas others will bring more consistency (Barley effect).

• Add the right components to protect and boost the liver (Choline, L- Carnitine, Citrix acid and B vitamins).

• Optimize the dEB content of the gestation, transition and lactation diets.

• Minimize all stressors around farrowing and avoid medicating if possible.

• Make sure the sow has free access to water.

Normally when changing to a higher density lactation feed, the feed quantity is reduced to prevent unnecessary pressure on the udder (MMA). The lower quantity and reduced fibre inclusions in the feed can result in constipation. Constipation and reduced intestinal transit times allow the formation of endotoxins and gram-negative bacterial growth. Endotoxins are responsible for reduced formation of prolactin as well as the stimulation of the immune system. This reduces milk production (dysgalactica) and increases the risk of mastitis. Constipation could also lead to narrowing of the birth channel and more stillborn piglets because of a prolonged parturition process. Feeding a high fibre diet during the transition phase could prevent constipation around farrowing.

How to reduce the incidence of constipation:

• Give free access to water (if possible, put extra water in the trough, even before farrowing). Sows need between 17-25 litres of fresh water per day during the transition period.

• Water flow of the water nipple should be at least 3 litres per minute.

• A minimum amount of feed should be supplied to ensure a laxative effect through intestinal movements.

• Supply sows with some additional natural laxative e.g. Wheat bran.

• Mineral laxatives can also be added e.g. MgO.

• Feed a high fibre diet to prevent constipation.

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Table 16. Nutrient recommendations for a transition diet

Feed curve

The advantage of feeding a transition diet is that you can increase the feed allowance before farrowing without any negative effects on udder development and start-up of milk production. Feeding higher volumes of the transition diets around farrowing is also a way to prevent constipation and may result in more relaxed sows.

The objective is to feed a similar amount of daily energy the last day when sows are on

the gestation feed than the first day when they are on the transition feed (or lactation

feed). The ideal feed amount during transition will thus depend on the total energy

supplied before the transition period.

NutrientsWheat-Barley-Soy Corn-Soy

Min Max Min Max

ADFI, kg/d 3.2 3.3 2.9 3.1

Net Energy, MJ/kg 9.3 9.5 9.5 9.7

SID-Lysine, g/kg 6.3 6.4 6.4 6.6

SID Lys: NE ratio 0.68 0.68 0.68 0.68

Ca, g/kg 7.0 7.3 7.3 7.6

Available P1, g/kg 3.3 3.4 3.4 3.5



Producers not using a transition feed should make sure to decrease the feed

allowance 1-2 days before parturition and give roughage in this period to maintain

bowel movement and avoid constipation; and of course ad lib water in excess.

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Recommended feed curve when using a transition diet

Recommended feed curve when no transition feed is used

Excess feed intake during the pre-farrowing period can result in excessive production of milk that leads to congestion of the udder and can also lead to further tissue damage. If fed high levels of protein/energy (such as in the lactation diet), udder development can be rapid and too excessive in the immediate period leading up to farrowing. The failure of new born piglets to “milk out” the sow will lead to pressure build-up in the udder, damaging the milk producing cells and thus compromising milk yield during the entire lactation period. The key to avoid this problem is to gradually reduce the feed levels prior to farrowing and gradually increasing feed intake after farrowing.

GES

TAT

ION

GES

TAT

ION

LAC

TAT

ION

LAC

TAT

ION

TRANSITION FEED

Max

Max

Min

Min

Day 110

Day 110

Day of farrowing

Day of farrowing

2

2

3

3

4

4

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Table 17. Recommended feed curve if no transition diet is being used (kg)

*It is recommended to follow the Min for gilts and Max for older parity sows.

4.4.4 Lactation

In order for a sow to achieve a high rate of milk production, the appropriate amount of nutrients must be available. If the dietary supply of nutrients is not sufficient to support milk synthesis, the sow will mobilize her own maternal body tissues, or ”milk off her back”. With leaner genotypes the amount of reserves available is rather limited and therefore nutrient intake to support her needs are of utmost importance.

The aim of the feed program for the TN70 is to maximize milk production without incurring substantial losses in body condition that might impair subsequent reproductive performance. With increased milk production, management and nutritional factors must be changed to facilitate the increased demands of the sow.

The nutritional requirements for the TN70 are based on estimated production levels. Litter weight gain serves as an indicator for production performance of lactating sows. The litter gain estimate for the TN70 is between 2.5 kg/day and 3.3 kg/day. Measuring and registration of piglet litter weight at birth and at weaning are key aspects in determining the nutrient requirements of the sows. The nutrient requirement during lactation depends on the length of lactation. The norms used in this feed manual are 21 and 28 days of lactation.

The performance of genetically lean sows during lactation hinges on the provision of

sufficient dietary energy to fuel maximum milk synthesis. As a result, increasing body

stores of fat during gestation may offer improvements in performance during lactation.

Topigs Norsvin litter weight gain calculation

Litter weight gain = (Litter wean weight-(Number piglets to be nursed x Average birth

weight of piglets) ) / Lactation length

TN70

Feed curve, d Min* Max*

Day 110 2.8 3.0

Day 111 2.7 2.9

Day 112 2.5 2.7

Day 113 2.3 2.5

Day 114 (Farrowing) 1.5-2.0 1.5-2.0

Day 1 2.5 3.0

Day 2 3.0 3.5

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Daily nutritional requirements

Table 18. Daily nutritional requirements of lactating sows

21 days lactation period



Litter gain.Kg/day Nutrient requirements

Parity

1 2 ≥3

2.5

Net Energy, MJ/d1 60.5 60.1 60.0

SID-Lysine, g/d1 51.9 50.6 50.3

SID-Lysine/NE, g/MJ 0.86 0.85 0.84

2.7

Net Energy, MJ/d1 65.1 64.3 64.1

SID-Lysine, g/d1 56.0 54.7 54.5


2.9

Net Energy, MJ/d1 68.5 67.8 66.7

SID-Lysine, g/d1 60.1 58.8 58.3


3.1

Net Energy, MJ/d1 72.7 72.0 71.2

SID-Lysine, g/d1 64.1 62.9 62.4


3.3

Net Energy, MJ/d1 76.9 76.2 75.8

SID-Lysine, g/d1 68.2 67.0 67.0


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28 days lactation period

Litter gain.Kg/day Nutrient requirements

Parity

1 2 ≥3

2.5

Net Energy, MJ/d1 58.5 58.1 57.9

SID-Lysine, g/d1 50.8 49.3 48.7


2.7

Net Energy, MJ/d1 62.7 61.9 61.6

SID-Lysine, g/d1 54.8 53.4 52.8


2.9

Net Energy, MJ/d1 66.8 66.1 65.1

SID-Lysine, g/d1 58.9 57.5 57.0


3.1

Net Energy, MJ/d1 71.0 70.2 69.5

SID-Lysine, g/d1 63.0 61.6 61.1


3.3

Net Energy, MJ/d1 75.2 74.4 73.8

SID-Lysine, g/d1 67.0 65.7 65.1


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Sows with larger litters produce greater amounts of milk, have higher litter gains and therefore have higher nutrient requirements when compared to sows with smaller litters. Reaching litter gains of 3.3 kg per day is highly dependent on (1) total litter size, (2) lactation feed intake, (3) density of the diet and (4) piglet feed intake.

Designing lactation diets, the actual litter gain of the specific farm should be known. Nutrient requirements and diets are given based on daily litter gains and lactation length. Diet calculations are based on the average of second and third parity sows.

Table 19. Nutrient recommendations for lactation diets (21 days weaning)

Table 20. Nutrient recommendations for lactation diets (28 days weaning*)

Nutrients/Litter Gain (kg/day)


2.7 2.9 2.7 2.9

ADFI, kg/d 6.2 6.6 6.0 6.4

Net Energy, MJ/kg 9.7 9.9 10.0 10.2

SID-Lysine, g/kg 8.4 8.6 8.6 8.9

SID Lys: NE ratio 0.86 0.87 0.86 0.87

Ca, g/kg 9.0 8.8 9.2 9.0

Available P1, g/kg 4.3 4.2 4.4 4.3


Nutrients/Litter Gain (kg/day)


2.9 3.1 2.9 3.1

ADFI, kg/d 6.7 7.1 6.5 6.9

Net Energy, MJ/kg 9.7 10.0 10.0 10.3

SID-Lysine, g/kg 8.4 8.7 8.6 8.9

SID Lys: NE ratio 0.86 0.87 0.86 0.87

Ca, g/kg 8.8 8.6 9.0 8.8

Available P1, g/kg 4.2 4.1 4.3 4.2




*When piglets are weaned older than 28 days, it is recommended to follow the diet recommendations given for the 28 days lactation period.

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Feed curves

The recommended feeding curve is moderately conservative in the first 10 days of lactation in order to minimize incidents of feed refusal among the sows. The objective is to increase the overall lactational feed intake by slowly increasing the daily allowance in the first part of lactation. Feed levels from day 10 should be at a maximum.

Table 21. Feed schedule during lactation (kg/day)#

Days/Feed intake (kg/day)


Feed curve, kg NE, MJ/d Feed curve, kg NE, MJ/d

0 2.0# 19.6 1.5# 15.2

1 2.5 24.5 2.0 20.2

2 3.0 29.4 2.5 25.3

3 3.5 34.3 3.0 30.3

4 4.0 39.2 3.5 35.4

5 4.5 44.1 4.0 40.4

6 5.0 49 4.5 45.5

7 5.0 49 4.5 45.5

8 5.5 53.9 5.0 50.5

9 6.0 58.8 5.5 55.6

10 6.5 63.7 6.0 60.6

21 Ad lib >75 Ad lib >75

28 Ad lib >80 Ad lib >85

35+ Ad lib Max 90 Ad lib Max 90

#The feed amount and schedule around farrowing and the first days after farrowing depend on whether a transition diet is being used or not. If a transition diet is being used, begin with the recommended feed curve as soon as the diet change has occurred.

#The daily feed allowance can be reduced with 500 grams/day for first parity gilts, until day 10 of lactation.

+Limit energy intake to 90 MJ/day for lactation periods of 35 days.

• Two to four meals per day is recommended to ensure higher feed intakes and make sure that the feed is always fresh.

• Controlled feeding is not restricted feeding. Managing the feed intake during lactation will improve sow performance and reduce feed wastage.

• Automated feed delivery systems are an easy means of managing ad libitum feeding.

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Regardless of parity, it is highly recommended to control the feed curve for lactating sows during the first 10 days of lactation. In cases where the feeding system or farm layout does not allow for more controlled lactation feeding, it is our recommendation to control at least the first two to three days after farrowing. After this period sows can be fed ad libitum. We do however recommend monitoring the feed intake and appetite of the sows.

Water intake

The TN70 sows are very docile and calm around farrowing and less motivated to drink a lot of water at the beginning of lactation. It is recommended to provide the sow with additional water during this period (first few days after farrowing). During lactation the water requirement per sow increases as milk production increases. If possible, ad libitum water supply should be provided. The minimum amount of water required per animal is 15 litres plus 1.5 litres of water for each piglet farrowed.

Tips to ensure maximal appetite during lactation:

• The feed should always be fresh, never stale, dirty or contaminated.

• Pellets give better intake than meal. Liquid feeding results in an improved feed intake compared to dry feeding. However, hygiene control becomes more important when using liquid feed.

• A gradual increase of daily feed allowance, thus matching the sows nutritional needs with feed levels.

• Reduce environmental stress, heat stress will reduce the feed intake.

• Fat sows have a lower feed intake during lactation.

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Tips to increase birth weight in piglets:

• Screen the diet regularly for mycotoxins. High levels of toxins could reduce the birth weight and vitality of the piglets.

• Ensure that there is a good and smooth transition between the lactation and gestation diets.

• Prevent excessive body condition losses during lactation, as this might affect the litter size in the next parity.

• Feed intake from weaning to insemination is essential for ensuring higher piglet birth weights (Topigs Norsvin research has shown a 45 grams higher piglet birth weight for 1 kg extra feed consumed during this period).

• Use the correct amino acid ratio for optimal fetus development, especially during the last trimester of gestation.

• Arginine (substrate for nitric oxide) has an important role in regulating placental-fetal bloodflow which is essential in transfer of nutrients and oxygen from mother to fetus (arginine should be given in gestation diets from day 70 until day 110 of gestation).

• It is critical to feed the correct level of minerals and vitamins during gestation and lactation. Folic acid, Vit A, Iron, Zinc and Mg all play a very important role in fetal development.

• It is recommended to add additional Omega 3 fatty acids during the last part of gestation (e.g. fish oil, linseed oil).

• Do not restrict the feed intake of sows that are overweight during the last part of gestation. This could affect piglet birth weights.

• Try to avoid farrowing induction, as premature parturition may decrease piglet birth weights with 40 to 50 grams.

4.5 Management in the sow barns

4.5.1 Piglet birth weight

Low birth weight is associated with an increased risk for stillbirth and mortality of live born piglets until weaning. It is well known that piglets with a birth weight below 1 kg have a lower chance of survival and a lower lifetime performance, independent of their status and litter. Producers should monitor piglet birth weights on a regular basis. The general rule of thumb is that less than 15 % of the piglets in a litter should weigh less than 1 kg at birth.

Birth weight is mostly influenced by sow factors rather than piglet genotype. In this respect, uterine capacity and nutrient supplies are important factors. Sow nutrition plays an important role in the litter uniformity. This is especially important for highly prolific sows in modern commercial environments. As the litter size increases the amount of nutrients available per fetus decreases due to increased fetal competition, which has been related to suboptimal fetal development. Sow reproductive performance, in terms of improved fetal growth and development, can therefore be optimized by feeding the ideal supplementation of amino acids and energy during gestation; even with and increase in litter size.

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4.5.2 Managing body condition

Top performance comes with having sows in the right physical condition throughout their productive life, which means that they conform to the optimal weight, backfat and body condition score at farrowing and weaning as defined by Topigs Norsvin. The optimum will vary according to sow parity and chosen feed program.

The Topigs Norsvin Sow Feeding Monitor is an online tool that offers nutritionists and farmers the possibility to make a comparison between the average sow herd condition and the recommendations for sow condition by Topigs Norsvin. The comparisons are made on the basis of sow body weight, sow backfat thickness and sow body condition score (BCS) at farrowing and at weaning. The purpose of the Sow Feed Monitor is to improve sow herd uniformity by first measuring and determine the existing condition variation; second step is to reduce the variation by adopting the most appropriate feed curves and nutritional strategies.

The Sow Feed Monitor is also referred to as the Topigs Norsvin Box Concept. The box should be seen as body condition boundaries for sow weight, sow backfat and sow BCS. The main objective is to get the Topigs Norsvin sow inside the green box (normal condition ranges) or in other words within the recommended boundaries for weight, backfat or BCS at farrowing and at weaning. The target is to get 85 % of all the sows in the box at farrowing and weaning; thereby improving sow herd uniformity and overall sow herd performance and efficiency.

BOX CONCEPT

Weight

Backfat

Body Condition Score

Weight

Backfat


Weight

Backfat


Weight

Backfat


Weight

Backfat


Weight

Backfat


Before farrowing

After farrowing

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Table 22. Body condition boundaries

Recommended body composition before farrowing (end of gestation)

Recommended body composition after farrowing (end of lactation)

CycleWeight, kg Backfat, mm BCS, points


1st 220 240 14 15 3 4

2nd 245 265 14 16 3 4

3rd 265 285 14 16 3 4

4th 285 305 14 16 3 4

5th 285 305 14 16 3 4

6th 285 305 14 16 3 4

CycleWeight, kg Backfat, mm BC, points


1st 180 200 12 13 2 3

2nd 200 220 12 13 2 3

3rd 220 240 12 13 2 3

4th 235 255 12 13 2 3

5th 235 255 12 13 2 3

6th 235 255 12 13 2 3

* BCS-Body condition score

* BCS-Body condition score

• Be cautious when using the traditional Body Condition Scoring (BCS) when judging the condition of the TN70. In reality, the sows are leaner than they appear.

• The Topigs Norsvin Feed Tool is available at: feedmonitor.topigsnorsvin.com

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4.5.3 Group housing of sows

The nutritional needs of the sow housed in group systems are different from individually housed sows. When sows are housed individually the feeding can be controlled and more precisely managed for each individual animal.

The following feeding and management factors need to be taken into consideration when developing diets for group housed sows.

Key factors to consider in developing diets for “Group housed sows”

1. Introducing gilts or sows to the group after the lactation period, could lead to stress. Antagonistic behaviour while establishing herd dominance can be observed. These events cause an undesired decrease in feed intake levels after introduction of an animal to a ‘new’ group. This decrease in feed intake can have detrimental effects on the pregnancy rate and also on the subsequent litter sizes. It is therefore advised to increase the individual feed allowances and to minimize any potential stress events after introducing new sows to a group. Take care: a. More attention needs to be given to gilts and submissive sows. Always check if these animals return to the feeders (if fed more meals per day).

b. Underfeeding can be a problem in animals when using a floor feeding system or crates with free access.

c. Monitor the water intake of sows kept in groups since water intake levels are normally lower in group housed sows than sows kept in crates.

2. Raw materials containing fermentable fibre play a very important role in feeding group housed sows. The inclusion of fermentable fibre reduces the feeling of hunger, thus increasing the satiety level in sows. Higher satiety levels do not only reduce the amount of antagonistic behaviours among sows, but will also keep sows calmer throughout the day. This could also help to prevent bottlenecks around feeders. Take care: a. Strict attention should be paid to young sows and the time they need to consume the higher fibre diets at the individual feeding stations.

3. Sows housed in groups need excellent leg conformation, mainly because sows are moving and walking greater distances. In order to ensure strong legs the following criteria have to be met: a. Proper gilt rearing strategies need to be established. Using gilt rearing diets which are focused on bone mineralization is essential for bone development.

b. Over-conditioned sows often have more leg problems because the weight does not match the leg conformation.

c. Minerals and vitamins which play an essential role in bone and claw development, need to be supplied in sufficient quantities (Ca, P, Ca:P ratio, Anion: Cation balance, Mg, Zn, Mn, Se, Vitamine D3 and Biotin).

d. The counteractive interactions between minerals need to be taken into consideration when increasing the levels or changing ratio’s.

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4. There is no optimum feed curve for sows in group housing systems. Feed curves need to be adjusted to the environmental conditions, parity, sow line, group size, health status and most importantly the body condition of the sows. It is recommended to us the Topigs Norsvin Sow Feed Monitor.

Key factors to be considered in managing sows in group housing systems

1. Gilts should be taught how to use an electronic feeding station in the absence of older or more dominant sows. It is also generally accepted that breeding gilts should be taught to express social behaviour by exposing them to older dominant sows a few times prior to introducing them to larger sow groups.

2. Insufficient space allowance in group housed sows increases the adverse consequences of aggressive behaviour at introduction and it also induces high levels of stress. Therefore the correct space allowance for sows kept in groups should be respected.

3. Avoid moving sows around the period that embryos are attaching to the uterine wall (day 11 to 16 after insemination). Rather move sows directly after insemination into their groups, or at least after 28 days after insemination. Legislation might vary from country to country.

4. Group composition should be kept as consistent as possible. Aggressiveness during the introduction of gilts into a sow group can be reduced by familiarizing gilts with elder sows first. Also try to keep younger animals together during the whole gestation period.

5. Floor quality is essential in group housed sows. Avoid slippery and unhygienic floors. Bedding is proven to have positive effects, in terms of production, when used in group housed systems.

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4.6 Appendix

4.6.1 Backfat measurement instructions

Consistency of probe placement is of great importance in obtaining comparative measurements. The procedure must be performed while the pig is standing. The animal must be restrained in a stall, scale, or walkway to simplify handling.

To locate the P2 site and measure backfat the following must be done:

• Find the rearmost edge of the last rib on the pig’s left hand side.

• Mark a spot vertically above on the midline.

• From this spot, measure 50mm down the left side from the midline.

• Place the probe of the ultrasound machine directly over the P2 site according to the manufacturer’s instructions and record the fat measurement (a contact solution is usually required to get an accurate reading).

• It is important to record two layers of backfat.

There are several makes of these devices available thus it is very important to measure the backfat according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

BACKFAT POSITION

Perpendicular lineto the last rib

Bac

k m

idlin

e

Figure 04. Topigs Norsvin P2 backfat position

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4.6.2 Mineral and vitamin recommendation

Table 23. Vitamin specifications for the TN70 sow

Sow feeding

Gestation Lactation

Min Max Min Max

Fat soluble vitamins

VIT, A (IU) 10000 12000

VIT, D3 (IU) 2000 2000

VIT, E (IU) 40 60

VIT, K3 (mg) 1 1

Water soluble vitamins (mg)

VIT, B1 (Thiamine) 1 2 1 3

VIT, B2 (Riboflavin) 4 5 5 7.5

NICOTINIC ACID 15 50 15 100

PANTHOTENIC ACID 15 30 15 30

VIT, B6 (Pyridoxine) 1 3 2 4

VIT, B12 (mcg) 30 50 30 100

FOLIC ACID 3 4 3 5

BIOTIN (mcg) 300 500 300 500

CHOLINE 500 750 500 1000

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Table 24. Mineral specifications for the TN70 sow

Remarks

• Minerals and vitamins are based on the recommendations from DSM (OVM, 2012).

• Mineral and vitamin inclusion levels are to maximize bone mineralisation.

• The recommended vitamin standards are determined in amounts added without regard to the vitamin content of the basic feed.

• The recommended mineral levels are presented as total amount in the feed.

• The recommendation of Topigs Norsvin is to use organic or chelated minerals as recommended by the suppliers.

Sow feeding

Gestation Lactation

Min Max Min Max

Na, % 0.25 0.3 0.2 0.25

K, % 1.3 1.3

Mg, % 0.2 0.25

Fe, ppm 100 160 100 160

I, ppm 1.5 4 2 4

Se, ppm 0.3 0.5 0.3 0.5

Cu, ppm 15 15

Zn, ppm 100 100

Mn, ppm 40 40

Cl, % 0.15 0.15

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Amino Acids* (ratio) Gestation Lactation

Lysine 100 100

Methionine 28 30

Met + Cyst 65 60

Tryptophan 20 19

Threonine 72 66

Valine 75 85

Isoleucine 65 60

Leucine 100 115

Histidine 30 42

Phenylalanine 60 60

Phenylalanine + Tyrosine 100 115

*Standardized digestible AA contents were calculated from the estimated standardized digestibility coefficients from InraPorc® (2009).

4.6.4 Temperature adjustments

Environment, and more specifically temperature can be used to explain the majority of the variation associated with differences in feed intake and performance of sows. The thermal neutral zone is the range of temperature in which the sows are comfortable and do not require additional or reduced energy intake to maintain body temperature. For gestating sows it is relatively easy to assess and maintain an environmental temperature range in which production levels are optimal. The thermal neutral zone for gestating and lactating sows is between 16-22 °C.

Heat stress can have a major impact on sow performance. If the temperature in the sow barn surpass 25 °C, this can lead to lower feed intake, reduced milk production, higher body weight losses, decreased weaning weights and poor reproductive performance. Below are a few tips to reduce heat stress during summer months.

Reduce the amount of internal heat produced by the diet• Fibre digestion and the protein deamination process generate considerably more heat compared

to carbohydrates. Therefore consider reducing dietary fibre levels by 1-2 % (depending on initial concentration). Compensate for the reduction in dietary fibre by supplementing it with a strong laxative (usually in the form of a salt). Also consider reducing crude protein levels by about 2 % with the supplementation of industrial amino acids in order to maintain the same ratios of Lysine: AA’s.

4.6.3 Amino Acid recommendations

Table 25. Amino acid recommendations for the TN70 sow

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Increase the nutrient density of the diet• The main idea is to increase the nutrient density of the lactation diet in relation to the expected

reduction in feed intake. Increase the levels of the vitamins, minerals and trace minerals in relation to the drop in the expected feed intake. The drop in feed intake can easily be between 5 to 10 % during summer.

• Lactation diets higher in fat are almost invariably recommended for combating heat stress. Although it is a good strategy to increase fat levels to 5-6 %, it also poses a potential risk. Higher levels of dietary fat increases the chance for oxidation which can lead to rancid feed. This would even further decrease feed intake. Discuss with your feed company, what would be the best strategy to administer fat into the diets to increase the caloric density.

Increase feeding frequency• Increase the feeding frequency and decrease portion size to minimize metabolic heat production.

Sows also drink more water under warm conditions, and excess feed in the troughs will spoil more easily if left in water for longer periods. Left over feed + water + heat = Reduced sow feed intake.

• Shift feedings to the early mornings and late afternoons. • Try to feed at least three to four times during summer. Always start with a clear trough. • Try not to feed more than 2.5 kg per feeding.

Keep free water low in summer diets • Free water can be measured in diets as the nutrient AW (Available Water). The recommended level

should be below 0.5.• High amounts of ‘free water’ in diets could lead to higher mold/toxin levels and could also lead to

excessive evaporation in feed tanks (which can cause blockages in the feed lines).

Feed additives for summer diets• The concentration and/or inclusion of certain additives cannot be altered due to country-specific

regulations. In the list below additives are listed that have demonstrated, in research, that reduce heat stress and increase feed intake in lactating sows. Discuss the possibilities and correct inclusion levels with your feed company.

• The following additives could be used during summer to increase lactation performance:• Chromium Propionate/Picolinate.• L- Carnitine.• Betain or Choline Cloride.• Sodium bicarbonate (don’t forget to balance the electrolyte balance).• Antioxidants (Also Vit E. Se and Vit C).• Liver support (B-Vit complex, Niacin, Citric and Furmic acid).• Magnesium Oxide (as laxative).

Water, water and water• Research has shown that cooled water increases lactation feed intake during the summer months.

It is recommended to evaluate the placement of the water tanks. Maybe an underground water tank that can pump water to the pens is a better option than water tanks that are fully exposed to sunlight.

• Water should always be available ad libitum. Water quality is always important, but especially during summer months when the sows will increase their water intake with 10-20%.

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During the winter, cold stress can be both a nutritional and management issue. The temperature in the sow barn should match the sow’s thermal neutral zone. Cold temperatures increases the maintenance requirements of the sows, and it is therefore reccommended to increase the dietary energy levels (MJ NE/day) during the cold season. Depending on the density of the diet, a five degree (Celsius) drop in temperature, relative to the thermal neutral zone, increases the daily dietary needs of the sows with 0.15-0.20 kg. This translates into increasing the energy supply to sows with 0.4-0.5 MJ/NE per degree when temperatures below 18°C are reached. Besides the higher amount of energy needed per sow per day, it is also recommended to adapt the sow diets during the cold season. The energy in the diet can be adjusted, so more energy comes from starch and less from oil/fat; which would all together influence fertility positively.Increasing the fermentable fiber content of the gestation diet, keeps the sows sated and can improve the feed intake during the upcoming lactation.

Table 26. Additional feed needed for changes in temperature

TEMPERATURE

Room temperature Additional feed MJ NE/day

>18° advice

16° + 1 MJ

14° + 2 MJ

12° + 3 MJ

Postal Address: P.O. Box 86, 5268 ZH Helvoirt, The Netherlands

Visiting Address: Helvoirtseweg 227, 5263 LT Vught, The Netherlands

Telephone: +31 411 64 88 70

Fax: +31 411 64 88 03

E-mail: [email protected]

www.topigsnorsvin.com

Documents

MANUAL TN70 MANUAL Feed Manual TN70 Rearing gilts and sows TN70 November 2015-Version 1