At weaning feed and water supply whilst available ad lib will present a major obstacle to the piglet. There is no stimulation to feed and all piglets can rarely feed together resulting in erratic intake. Hand feed 3-6 times a day for the first week after weaning, preferably using gutter troughs. Provide bowled water for pigs in the first week. Feed gruel or porridge to weaned piglet twice daily.
Ensure floors are comfortable to encourage pigs to get up and feed or drink.
Energy requirements Energy is required for both growth and maintenance. If provision falls below maintenance levels then energy will be mobilised from the body to compensate. The greatest challenge to the weaned pig is the maintenance of body temperature, which is a balance between heat generated and ambient temperatures. However, this is frequently not achieved at pig level as a result of inadequate heat provision and insulation, draughts etc. The use of lying mats or even kennels for newly weaned pigs will reduce the LCT by at least 3 C and have the added benefit of improving comfort on fully slatted floors.