Abstract:
This study was aimed to explore the effects of different feeding mode for sows on the reproductive performance. In this study, 434 head of gilts were divided into A and B group according to the feeding regimes. Group A were fed in a mode of gradually increased feed intake while group B were fed in mode of high-low-high feed intake under the same environmental conditions. The back fat thickness at P2 point and number born of the first farrowing sows were recorded. The results showed that the reproductive performances of group B were better than those of group A. Total number born, number born alive, number born robust were 14.2, 12.4 and 10.7 respectively. The reproductive performances of sows with back fat thickness of 16-20 mm were the best. In addition, the ratio of sows with back fat thickness of 16-20 mm in the group B were 6.8% higher than that in the group A, and there were fewer fatty sows in the group B. It was indicated that better reproductive performance and comprehensive benefit could be achieved by feeding first farrowing sows in a mode of high-low-high feed intake during gestation period.