SWINE MANAGEMENT. 



17 



Fig. 7.— Farrowing pen with fenders. 



the hog's system crave green feed, but more or less bulk is demanded. 

 To offset the lack of green feed nothing surpasses roots. These may 

 be sliced or pulped and mixed with the grain, or may be given whole 

 as a noon feed. However, care must be used in feeding roots, as 

 they are laxative in effect and if fed in excessive amounts may 

 bring about profuse 

 action of the bowels. 

 Some eastern farm- 

 ers recommend the 

 use of clover or alfal- 

 fa hay, sheaf oats, 

 or corn fodder to 

 supply the bulky re- 

 quirement of the 

 ration. Charcoal, 

 ashes, lime, and salt 

 should be accessible 



at all times. During the entire period care should be taken to keep 

 the system well toned. The sow should become accustomed to being 

 handled and should look upon her attendant as a friend. 



The brood sows may run together up to within two weeks of far- 

 rowing time; then it is well to separate them, placing each sow by 

 herself in a yard with a small house, which should be dry, airy, and 

 clean. A great deal of exercise will not now be necessary. The 

 feed should be reduced somewhat, and if there is any tendency to 

 constipation, a slight change of feed may be necessary. 



FARROWING. 



As the time for farrowing approaches the sow should be watched 

 carefully, in order that assistance may be given if necessary. The 

 feed at this time should be sloppy and limited in amount. The sow 

 generally becomes nervous and restless as parturition approaches; 

 she makes a nest for her young; a swollen vagina and milk down in 

 the teats are other visible signs. It is practically certain that a sow 

 will farrow late in the afternoon or the following night when milk is 

 found in the teats in the morning. 



Nothing but lukewarm water should be given the sow during 24 

 hours previous to farrowing. If she has already farrowed a litter 

 and has been properly fed and cared for during pregnancy, little 

 difficulty may be expected; but with youjig sows, particularly those 

 bred at an immature age, there is considerable risk at this time, not 

 only to the pigs but to the sow herself. 



There is a difference of opinion as to the amount of beddmg which 

 should be given to the sow at this time. Aii active sow in compara- 



.2197°— 17— Bull. 874 3 



