Re-Alimentation of Growing Pigs in Quantitative Feed Restriction

Abstract

This study objective is to investigate the growth performance and cost implication of pigs during a period of quantitative feed restriction. Twenty-four (24) mixed sexes (Large white x Landrace) of weaner pigs with an initial live-weight of 8.39 ± 0.01 kg were grouped into four treatments for 126 days in a completely randomized design experiment. Each treatment was further subdivided into three replicates of two pigs each. Diets were fed to the pigs at 5%, 4%, 3% of their live weight, and ad libitum feeding regimen. Daily feed intake and weekly weight gains were recorded while the feed conversion ratio and cost implications of pigs were calculated. The results of performance of pigs showed that there was a significant (P<0.05) decrease in feed consumption in pigs fed at 3% body weight when compared with those fed ad libitum with significant. However, weight gain was not influenced (P>0.05) in pigs on ad libitum and restricted feeding. Cost of feed ₦/kg and cost of feed ₦/kg weight gain were not influenced (P>0.05) while cost of feed consumed decreased significantly (P<0.05) in pigs fed 3% body weight when compared with pigs on ad libitum feeding. For minimum cost and optimal growth of pigs, pig farmers are advised to employ feeding regimens in pig production.