After three months of age, pigs should be switched to a maintenance diet with higher amounts of fiber. If the sow is pregnant or lactating, a special diet is needed to provide more energy and nutrients. Pigs may be fed the calculated amount either once a day, or probably better for the pig, divided into two feedings, morning and late afternoon. Except in very hot weather or when ill, pigs will usually display some interest in food. Therefore, immediately report to the veterinary staff any pig which shows a loss of appetite.
Pigs tend to eat more when they have to compete with other pigs for food.
Pigs become excited at feeding time and squeal or grunt until fed. After eating, they quiet down and often doze until the next feeding. If given enough room, pigs will defecate in one corner of a pen and sleep in a different corner. Water is best provided by an automatic watering system since pigs will refuse to drink from soiled water containers and tend to overturn bowls or pans which are placed on the floor. Some experts even suggest that before surgery, water be withheld only 4-6 hours, however UAC has never had problems with removing water the night before surgery.