114 SOUTHERN PORK PRODUCTION 



fat should be avoided, since such feeding is apt to result 

 in an abnormal development of fat tissue in comparison 

 with the lean. The distribution of fat and lean in the 

 carcass can be influenced to a limited extent by the 

 method of feeding. Proper covering and firmness of 

 flesh are most desirable. Unnecessary expenses should be 

 avoided. Vermifuges, tonics and appetizers may be used 

 to advantage. The feeding of sugar, molasses, and starch 

 is an expensive procedure that is seldom justifiable. The 

 cooking of feeds is also of questionable value. The em- 

 ployment of some of these and similar methods is some- 

 times justifiable. Of course, in show fitting one is not 

 justified in figuring too closely on costs of gains, and 

 especially in the case of breeding swine when very high 

 prices may obtain. Linseed meal is a food that we are 

 justified in using in the South in show fitting only. It is 

 very rich in protein and generally contains considerable 

 oil, which is supposed to have a very beneficial influence 

 on the skin and bristle. 



Greater skill is required in the proper fitting of breed- 

 ing swine than fat or market swine. In the fitting of 

 breeding swine considerable exercise must be allowed. 

 The all-important thing is to attain the proper condition 

 for winning in the competition without injuring the 

 breeding qualities. In the fitting of market hogs or fat 

 hogs conformation and condition, combined with the 

 right quality, are all essential. In the case of either class 

 of swine, it must ever be borne in mind that after a hog 

 is once fitted for the show he must not be allowed to 

 decline in condition, for with a decline in condition a 

 certain coarseness of fleshing and bone is brought about 

 that can never be overcome by the most judicious feeding. 



