Summer Pig Farming Pitfall Avoidance Guide

1. Cooling & Sterilization

• Provide shade and ventilation in pigsties to block direct sunlight, reduce heat radiation, and lower temperatures.
• Ensure a sufficient water supply is always available.

2. Maintain Cleanliness in Pigsties
Summer is a season when pathogens thrive. Disinfection is key to cutting transmission routes and eliminating pathogens on surfaces or pig bodies. To prevent infectious diseases, prioritize pen hygiene and disinfection.

• In hot weather, spray pigsties and pigs with cool water.
• Provide ample drinking water; automated water systems are ideal where possible.
• Ensure proper ventilation for air circulation.

3. Control Stocking Density
Stocking density directly affects indoor temperatures. Reduce density during hot months:

• Fattening pigs should occupy at least 1 m² per head.

4. Scientific Feeding Practices
Overcrowding reduces feed intake and slows growth.

• Boost feed nutrition and adjust feeding routines: Heat reduces appetite and feed intake, impacting nutrient supply. Increase dietary nutrient levels during high temperatures and feed pigs during cooler mornings/evenings.
• Ensure feed freshness and palatability: Prevent mold growth. Consider adding mycotoxin-degrading agents to feed.

5. Preventing Heatstroke
Act early to avoid heat stress:

• Add sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) to feed for fattening pigs (highly heat-sensitive). This boosts appetite and prevents heatstroke.
• Mix heat-clearing, detoxifying herbs into feed, or supplement with watermelon rinds and vitamin C to cool pigs down.