Milk Composition and Daily Yield of Different Milk Components as Affected by Sow Condition and Lactation/Feeding Regimen

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Abstract
Milk production and composition were measured for each of 16 sows on 3 days between days 2 and 12 after parturition. Sows of at least fourth parity were used, eight animals in poor condition and eight animals in normal condition. Litter size was standardized at eight piglets. Four animals of each condition were given a high level of feed (4 kg/day) and four a low level of feed (2.3 kg/day). Milk quantity was determined by weighing piglets before and after suckling. Milk production was corrected for weight loss of piglets due to metabolic rate and evaporation. Active piglets lost much more weight pre- and postsuckling than resting piglets. From day 2 through day 12 after parturition, milk quantity increased and protein content decreased. Sows in good condition produced more milk, energy and protein than thin sows. Feeding level during early lactation had no effect on quantity and composition of milk. Copyright © 1981. American Society of Animal Science. Copyright 1981 by American Society of Animal Science.

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