More kilos with the same feed: how the wet-dry system improves your pigs' performance
Mixing about two liters of water per kilo of dry feed promotes diet digestibility, according to research from the Autonomous University of Barcelona. How to put it to work in finishing pigs, in five recommendations.
In pig production, every kilogram of feed counts. Considering that feed accounts for between 60% and 70% of production costs, getting animals to make better use of every ration can make a significant difference in a farm’s profitability.
How can you improve your pigs’ performance without changing the feed you already use? The answer lies in how that feed reaches the animal. It is not always necessary to modify the diet formula to get better results. In many cases, optimizing the feeding system allows pigs to consume available nutrients more efficiently.
Exafan’s POSEIDÓN feeding system combines dry feed and water in a single unit, facilitating proper access to feed during the finishing stage and adapting to the needs of each production phase. This type of system takes advantage of an important physiological benefit: feed mixed with water eases the digestive process and improves nutrient utilization.
Various studies have shown that wet-dry feeding can improve pigs’ production performance. According to research from the Autonomous University of Barcelona, adding approximately two liters of water for every kilogram of dry feed promotes diet digestibility, allowing animals to make better use of the energy and nutrients they consume.
In practical terms, this can translate into:
- Higher voluntary feed intake.
- Better daily weight gain.
- Better feed conversion.
- Less feed waste.
Five recommendations for better results
- Adjust the flow according to the production stage. Animals’ needs change as they grow. For this reason, it is important to regulate the amount of water and feed according to the pigs’ age and weight. The optimal mixing ratio increases as the animal progresses in its development.
- Respect the number of pigs per feeding point. When too many animals share the same feeding point, competition increases and greater variability is generated within the batch. Maintaining the recommended density helps achieve more uniform consumption.
- Keep the feeder clean and in good condition. Hygiene is a key aspect. A clean feeder encourages consumption, reduces health risks, and ensures the feed retains its properties.
- Make a gradual transition. If the animals have been eating dry feed, the switch to the wet-dry system should be made progressively over a period of five to seven days. This allows the digestive system to adapt properly.
- Check the feeder height every week. As pigs grow, the equipment’s height must be adjusted to facilitate access to feed and minimize losses from waste.
At Agroindustrias González, we believe technology generates real value when it is accompanied by proper management and ongoing technical support.
If you have any questions about managing your feeding system, contact us at 098 614 4112.