Description: The changes in diet and housing for organic sows just before farrowing lead to potential problems in feed and water intake and milk production of sows and in reduced vitality of the piglets, resulting in high mortality of the newborn piglets. In 2007 possible solutions will be collected from a literature research and from practical experience. In 2008 this information will be used in some "problem farms" and in an experiment on the research farm in Raalte.
Research objectives: The objective of the project is to develop and test a feeding strategy which prevents problems around the diet change just before farrowing, resulting in more vital piglets and an increased survival rate.
Results and products: The questions formulated in the aim of this trial are answered. The results will be published in a report, in a pig magazine and on the website www.biokennis.nl . |