Effects of differences in feed intake and thermal environment on productive performance in lactating sows

In South Korea, smart farming is conducted to address the increasing meat consumption and the aging population issue. In addition, smart farming data analysis is important for daily decision-making and predicting performance. This study aimed to investigate the effects of differences in feed intake and thermal environment on productive performance in lactating sows by analysis of productivity and environmental factors. A total of 40 sows in the farrowing house were selected for the experiment, and data collection extended over approximately one year, starting in 2019. To obtain the necessary data for the correlation analysis, smart farm equipment was installed. Feed intake (FI) of the lactating sows was measured weekly using an automatic feeder and the weaning to estrus interval (WEI) information was also recorded. The environmental conditions (temperature and humidity) were controlled and the data was collected to analyze the correlations between the FI and environmental factors with weaning weight, number of weaned pigs, and WEI using regression analysis. The insufficient FI by lactating sows led to lower weaning weight and number of weaned pigs, whereas higher feed consumption correlated with larger litters. The elevated temperature during the first week post-farrowing decreased the weaning weight and number of weaned pigs, with no significant effects observed in subsequent weeks. The increased FI during the third week of lactation correlated with shorter WEI, enhancing sow reproductive performance. In conclusion, optimizing FI and maintaining appropriate environmental conditions are important for enhancing sow productivity and farm efficiency.