How to solve the reduction of fattening pigs in hot summer

Pigs are warm-blooded animals with a thick layer of subcutaneous fat and underdeveloped sweat glands, which makes it difficult for them to regulate body temperature through sweating. As a result, when the ambient temperature exceeds their optimal range—typically between 15°C and 21°C—pigs experience heat stress. This causes them to reduce activity and feed intake, leading to slower growth, weight loss, and even heatstroke in severe cases. Research shows that for every 1°C increase in temperature above 21°C, feed intake in growing pigs decreases by 60–100 grams, while for every 1°C drop below 15°C, feed intake increases by about 19.5 grams but daily gain decreases by 10–22 grams. For example, when the temperature rises from 22.7°C to 31.4°C, feed consumption can drop from 2.8 kg to just 0.9 kg per day. The impact of high temperatures on feed intake is particularly significant. Reduced feed intake affects both direct and indirect performance. When pigs only consume the base amount needed for survival, their growth slows or even reverses, and they may become leaner with higher feed costs. Their immunity also weakens, increasing disease risk and medication costs. To combat this, it's essential to create a comfortable environment during hot weather. First, improving ventilation and using cooling systems like drip cooling or misting can help lower the temperature inside pig houses. At 25°C, combining fans with cooling systems can enhance air circulation, while above 30°C, misting with water or oil sprays can improve air quality. Second, increasing feeding frequency (at least three times a day) and avoiding midday feeding can help pigs rest more. Nighttime feeding, when it’s cooler, allows pigs to sleep longer, which supports growth. Feeding before 7:00 AM and after 6:00 PM, along with adding vitamin C and E to the feed, can boost immunity and heat tolerance. Third, reducing stocking density (not less than 1.8 m² per pig) helps lower body heat production and reduces stress. Pigs with thicker fat layers are more prone to heat stress, so overcrowding should be avoided, especially in summer. Fourth, ensuring access to clean, cool water is critical. Water sources should be protected from sunlight and contamination. Regular checks on automatic drinkers ensure adequate supply. Pigs rely heavily on water for temperature regulation, nutrient transport, and waste elimination. In summer, they may drink up to 0.5% of their body weight in water daily. Fifth, maintaining fresh feed by following the "first in, first out" principle prevents spoilage, which can reduce feed intake and affect overall health. Sixth, using traditional Chinese herbal remedies such as vinegar, citric acid, plantain, and honeysuckle can help cool pigs and improve their resistance to heat stress. These natural solutions can support better feed utilization and weight gain. Seventh, maintaining cleanliness is crucial. Daily cleaning, especially at noon, prevents the buildup of ammonia from manure, which can irritate pigs’ respiratory systems and lead to infections. Lastly, if feed intake drops significantly, isolate affected pigs and provide nourishing foods like pumpkin porridge, fermented feed, and green materials. Encouraging movement in shaded areas can also help improve their condition and stimulate appetite. By implementing these strategies, farmers can effectively manage heat stress and maintain healthy, productive pig herds.

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