Formulating diets to minimise weight loss in lactating sows

Farrowing and lactation cause severe metabolic changes in sows. The lactation phase increases sow energy requirements and since the sow prioritises her litter nutrient requirements above her own body, it will result in significant mobilisation of body reserves if she doesn’t receive the proper amount of nutrients in her diet. In addition, during the first days after farrowing feed intake is limited due to alterations in gut physiology, however, feed intake will enhance throughout lactat