CHAPTER IV 



CARE AND FEEDING OF THE SOW AND 

 LITTER 



THE foundations of a successful farrowing season are 

 laid in the winter by the proper feeding and care of the 

 sows during pregnancy, but the number of pigs saved 

 and finally raised is largely a question of the thought and 

 attention to details which the man in charge is disposed 

 to give the herd during and immediately following the 

 farrowing season. 



CARE DURING THE FARROWING SEASON 



An important step in preparation for the farrow- 

 ing season is to see that the farrowing-pens are 

 ready and in order. They should be given a thorough 

 cleaning and then sprayed with a strong disinfectant. 

 It is very important also that the floors be dry and warm. 

 Probably the most ideal floor is concrete covered with 

 wood, but a good dirt or clay bottom is satisfactory if 

 kept dry and free from dust. Bare concrete or cement 

 floors are cold and often become damp. 



There should be guard rails on the sides of the pen 

 projecting out 8 or 10 inches from the walls and about 

 8 inches from the floor. These frequently will save a 

 pig from being crushed by a restless mother. In Fig. 4 

 is a suggestion for a pig-nest which may be placed in 

 one corner. In very cold weather this is of value in keep- 

 ing the pigs warm as well as offering a place of safety. 



