There is a relationship between low immunoglobulin values at 24 hours postpartum and piglet mortality. The quantity of immunoglobulin in sow colostrum increases with parity. Piglet Survival and Growth Piglets glycogen stores 271 kJ at birth. The piglet requires an external energy source during the first few hours of life to prevent hypoglycemia. The piglet needs to consume 250-300ml of colostrum to remain in energy balance.
Piglets normally grow about half their potential growth rate from birth to three weeks of age.
Potential growth rates can be achieved only by increasing the protein and energy content of the milk.