Litter data and average pig weights were analyzed with a model which included the effects of season, diet, parity, breed of dam, and breed of sire. This difference also was observed at the fourth week of lactation. Of interest was the increase in backfat thickness for all groups from week 3 to week 4. No other statistical differences were detected among means for the 4 weeks. These results were quite inconsistent and difficult to interpret.
Least squares means for sow average backfat, weight loss, and feed consumption.
Average sow backfat during lactation. Daily sow weight change during lactation. Weekly sow feed consumption during lactation. Other studies have indicated that pig survival has increased as a result of supplemental fat in lactation diets. Weekly pig weights of sows fed varying fat levels during lactation.