Lifetime sow productivity is influenced by both body protein and body fat reserves after first litter weaning

Abstract

Sow longevity and lifetime productivity is a key factor in determining herd productivity and lowering production costs. Sow replacement rates are high in Australia, with an average of 59% sow turnover (Benchmarking Report 2015, R. Campbell, pers. comm.) and the trends do not indicate any improvement. The main cause of sow turnover includes low litter size and reproductive failure, with many sows being culled prematurely. Hughes et al. (2010) suggested management practices that reduce sows entering the herd with excessive body reserves and are too heavy, would promote sow longevity. This study tested the hypothesis that sow longevity and lifetime performance is affected by body reserves in young sows.