Guide to Managing Gilts for Optimal Longevity 

In part one of this two-part series, we emphasized that replacement gilts are critical for the future productivity of the sow herd. Therefore, meticulous management of various parameters when raising gilts is vital. The next layer to raising robust and productive gilts is the importance of effective management practices concerning insemination, weight at first service and the integration of pregnant gilts into the sow herd. 

Essential Practices for Managing Gilts: Achieving Optimal Insemination and Long-Term Productivity

Managing gilts for insemination requires several key practices to ensure favorable outcomes. Feeding should be restrictive or lower in energy with added fiber to control weight gain, ensuring all gilts have easy access to the trough. Additionally, we should adjust feeding strategies accordingly to achieve weight goals, age and P2 backfat at insemination.  

Before breeding, it is essential to acclimate newly introduced gilts to the breeding environment and train them how to use the feeder and water systems used during gestation. Boar exposure is more effective than sow exposure for stimulating puberty and should commence at 22-24 weeks of age, at least 20 minutes per day. Moving boars or sows to gilt pens can aid in stimulating and synchronizing puberty and checking for re-cycling. 

Maintaining a growth rate of 650-750 g/day from birth is important. The optimal target for breeding gilts is at the second or third estrus, with an ideal weight of 140-160 kg and an age of 220-240 days. Breeding gilts much lighter than 135 kg or heavier than 170 kg can reduce their longevity and lifetime performance. By adhering to these guidelines, gilts can be effectively managed toward successful insemination and long-term productivity. 

Studies concluded that the optimal backfat level at first service for gilts should be between 13.0-15.0 mm. This range was associated with better longevity and a higher number of piglets weaned over the sows’ lifetimes.

Introducing Pregnant Gilts into the Sow Herd

Introducing pregnant gilts into the sow herd often results in fighting. To mitigate this, move gilts into the sow herd one pen at a time, maintaining the structure and hierarchy of groups raised together. Keep gilts and first parity sows separate from older sows to reduce conflicts. Typically, 16-18% of gilts are introduced with each insemination batch, and the optimal yearly replacement rate in a commercial sow farm should be between 45-50%. For grandparent (GP) or great grandparent (GGP) herds, the replacement rate will be higher to ensure genetic progress. 

Zinpro Can Help You Raise Robust and Productive Gilts

Effective management of gilts is fundamental to ensuring their optimal performance and longevity within the sow herd. By implementing key practices such as controlled feeding and proper exposure to the breeding environment, you can enhance the reproductive success and overall health of your gilts. Maintaining appropriate weight and backfat levels at insemination, along with minimizing stress during the introduction of pregnant gilts into the sow herd, further supports their long-term productivity. By following these guidelines, you can build a strong foundation for their herds, leading to improved efficiency, profitability and animal welfare. 

Contact a swine expert now to discover ways to optimize your system’s productivity.

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