Because parity-one gilts produce less milk, should larger gilt litters be transferred to older, more mature sows?
Yes. Gilts or first-parity sows will consume approximately 15 to 20% less feed during lactation and also produce less milk than older sows. Equalizing litters between sows is a good practice, but having a smaller litter size on first-parity sows (eight to nine pigs) may result in larger pig weaning weights and better sow rebreeding performance. Q. How early should an iron injection be administered? The pig is born with a relatively low body reserve of iron. Because sow milk also supplies a limited amount of iron to the nursing pig, the young pig may show deficiency signs or anemia (slow growth rate, labored breathing, and pale skin) within seven to 14 days of age if additional iron is not given. The pig can be injected with iron (100 to 200 mg) anytime within the first week of life. To reduce additional handling of pigs, iron is generally injected at the time pigs are processed (e.g., clipping needle, etc.) without adverse effect. Q. What sources of iron are effective for the young pig
