Swine

The Economic Analysis of Feeding Cull Sows to Heavier Weights

Authors: Robert F. Fitzgerald (Iowa State University) , Kenneth J. Stalder (Iowa State University) , Locke Karriker (Iowa State University) , Colin D. Johnson (Iowa State University) , Lori L. Layman (Iowa State University)

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to estimate the amount of feed and associated costs of adding weight to cull sows, and, then to estimate the cost/benefit ratio of adding marketable weight to cull sows. As determined by last rib backfat, 8, 17, and 4 sows were classified into initial body condition scores of 1, 2, and 3, respectively. As sows’ BCS increased, the efficiency of adding weight decreases. Average daily gain (ADG) and Feed:Gain (F:G) was greatest in sows that began the trial as a BCS 1 and increased 1 condition score. Both traits declined during the remainder of the trial within all initial BCS.

Keywords: ASL R2240

How to Cite: Fitzgerald, R. F. , Stalder, K. J. , Karriker, L. , Johnson, C. D. & Layman, L. L. (2007) “The Economic Analysis of Feeding Cull Sows to Heavier Weights”, Iowa State University Animal Industry Report. 4(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/ans_air-180814-43