Effects of Feeding Frequency on Reproductive Performance and Stress Responses in Gestating Sows

Abstract

Abstract: A total of 20 F1 multiparous sows (Yorkshire×Landrace) were used to investigate the effects of feeding frequency on their reproductive performance and stress responses. The sows were alloted to one of two treatments, i.e. 1) once daily feeding (OF) and 2) Twice daily feeding (TF), in a completely randomized design (CRD) based on their parity, body weight (BW), backfat thickness (BF) and weaning to estrus interval (WEI). Gestating diet with 3,265kcal of ME/kg, 12.90% of CP, and 0.75% of lysine was provided at 2.4 kg for the 3rd parity and 2.2 kg for the 2nd parity during pregnancy, while a same lactating diet with 3,265kcal of ME/kg, 16.80% of CP and 1.08% of lysine was provided ad libitum regardless of treatment. In gestation, sow BW, BF and BF gain were not affected by feeding frequency, but significantly higher BW gain from day 35 to 90 and from day 35 to 110 of gestation were observed in OF treatment (P<0.05 and P<0.10, respectively). In lactation, sow BW, BW gain, BF, BF gain, ADFI and WEI did not differ significantly between treatments. Although litter and piglet performance were not affected by gestation feeding frequency, litter weight at birth was significantly higher in OF (P<0.05). When it compared to TF, OF had no influence on colostrum and milk compositions of lactating sow as well as IgG in sow colostrum and piglet serum. Sows with OF showed significantly or numerically lower average daily water consumption from day 35 to 70 of gestation (P<0.05), day 70 to 105 of gestation (P<0.10) and overall period of gestation (P<0.05). While there were no significant differences in stereotypic behaviors and salivary cortisol levels during gestation between treatments, OF treatment showed numerically or significantly lower sow activities at day 70 and day 105 of gestation (P<0.10 and P<0.05, respectively), and numerically increased inactivities at day 70 and day 105 (P<0.10). In conclusion, OF did not have negative influence on sow reproduction and reduced the stress-related responses of sow in gestation compared to TF. However, considering the higher BW gain of OF in gestation, more research for nutrient digestion and utilization of OF sow is recommended. Key words: Gestating sow, Reproductive performance, Salivary cortisol, Stereotypic behavior, Water consumption