What sources of iron are effective for the young pig?
Iron is used for hemoglobin synthesis, which is essential for carrying oxygen in the blood to the pig’s tissue. Injected iron is, however, complexed with a compound that will slowly release the iron into the blood system. This compound is generally a carbohydrate (e.g., dextrose, etc.). In the case of oral iron sources, it is not necessary that the iron be complexed with a carbohydrate, as iron absorption is regulated by the intestinal tract, particularly after “gut closure” occurs (24 to 36 hours of age). In the latter case, the iron must be in an available form. (See Table 2.) If pigs are raised on pasture, the soil will provide an adequate amount of iron for the nursing pig, which eliminates the need for an iron injection. Q. Is it necessary to inject iron at weaning? No. The 200 mg of iron injected at birth has been shown to provide an adequate amount of iron for approximately 28 to 35 days. If iron is supplemented in the starter diet in a form that has a high availability, and the
