Pig Farming for Beginners: From Biosecurity to Optimal Feeding

The development of a pig farm is a complex yet promising process that can yield significant profits with the right approach. Small farms, where the owner and their family, sometimes with one hired worker, can maintain up to 500 pigs. To successfully start this business, several important aspects need to be considered, such as biosecurity, genetics selection, vaccination, feeding, and housing conditions.

Biosecurity

Perimeter fencing: Ensuring a minimal level of biosecurity starts with fencing off the animal housing to prevent entry of wild animals that may carry diseases.

Prohibition of waste use: Waste from public catering establishments and household kitchens should not be used for pig feeding.

Special clothing and footwear: Use separate clothing and footwear for working near pigs that should not be used in other areas.

Disinfection: Regularly conduct preventive disinfection of premises after animal clearance, and where this is not possible – in their presence.

Health check of newly arrived pigs: Be sure to check the health status of newly arrived animals for major infectious diseases.

Genetics Selection

Genetics selection has a significant impact on the productivity of your farm. While weight gain indicators in piglets do not significantly differ between different genetics, the litter size of sows can vary from 12 to 20 or more newborn piglets. A larger number of piglets requires more attention from the owner, so the choice of genetics depends on your capabilities.

Vaccination

To maintain animal health and maximize profits, it is important to vaccinate sows and piglets against:

Sows: parvovirus, erysipelas, colibacillosis.

Piglets: mycoplasma, circovirus PCV2.

Feeding

Pig feeding should meet specific nutritional requirements. To achieve high productivity results, follow recommendations regarding raw protein content, energy, and amino acid levels with macro- and micronutrients. Use ready-made special protein-mineral-vitamin additives (PMVA) or premixes from Vitagro Nutrition, and seek professional advice from feed companies.

Housing Conditions

Pig housing conditions should provide comfort for the animals. The best results are achieved in buildings with slatted floors, although many farms use straw bedding or concrete floors. It is important to avoid drafts and chilling, especially at night.

Starting a pig farm requires careful preparation and adherence to the basic principles of biosecurity, genetics selection, vaccination, feeding, and housing conditions. With the right approach, this can become a stable and profitable business.