Effect of different heating systems on the performance of suckling piglets

Abstract

In Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil) during summer and autumn, four heating systems were evaluated for suckling piglets, which used a lamp in each successive half of lactation (28 days in total): S1, infrared and 150W common; S @, common 150W and 100W; S3, 100W common only; S4, common 100W and 60W. 84 litters were used, grouped in six blocks. The variables evaluated were: maximum and minimum temperatures in the piglets' nest, in the maternity and environmental room; litter size (TC); weight gain (GPC) and litter weight (PC); ration consumption (CR); mortality (M); litters with dead (CCM); diarrhea (D); litters with diarrhea (CCD) and electricity consumption (CE). Data corresponding to three periods were analyzed: initial (0-14 d), final (15-28 d) and total (0-28 d). Significant differences were observed for the temperatures in the nests and CE (P <.01) in all periods; in the initial period the S! had higher CPG (P <.10) and S # and S $ lower CCD (P <.05); In the total period, S1 had higher CPG and CP than the others. The averages at weaning were: TC, 10.4; GPC, 46.5 kg; PC, 61.8 kg; CR, 2.6 kg per litter and period; M, 7.4%; CCM, 44.0%; D, 9.0% and CCD, 86.6%. A negative correlation was found between nest temperature and ration consumption. In conclusion, it is recommended for the time of year studied, not to replace the infrared lamp during the first two weeks, but that it is economical to use ordinary lamps of lower power, in the final period of lactation.