Influence of various ventilation type on microclimate parameters, productivity of lactating sows, and growth of suckling piglets in spring and autumn seasons

Cite this article: Zhyzhka, S. V., Povod, M. H., & Mylostyvyi, R. V. (2019). Influence of various ventilation type on microclimate parameters, productivity of lactating sows, and growth of suckling piglets in spring and autumn seasons. Theoretical and Applied Veterinary Medicine, 7(2), 90‒96. doi: 10.32819/2019.71016 Abstract. Technological group of lactating sows with suckling piglets, are very sensitive to any climate change. They are basis for the next development and implementation of their genetic potential, therefore one of the most important issues of housing is the right choice of the microclimate creation system. One of the main tasks in this case is also the reduction of energy costs to provide proper parameters, both for animals and for their service staff. The effect of microclimate parameters created by means of traditional and geothermal ventilation systems on the performance of lactating sows and the growth of suckling piglets in the spring and autumn seasons are understood by us. The analysis of sows’ performance was carried out according to the following parameters: number and weight of nest of newborn piglets, multiple birth, large-foetus fertility, number of piglets at weaning, survival rate, individual live weight and weight of the nest at this time. The analysis of the intensity of growth of piglets was studied by absolute, daily average and relative live weight gain. For a comprehensive assessment of the reproductive qualities of the breeding stock, which was held under different conditions of microclimate creation, the estimated index of the design of M. D. Berezovsky (1986) was used. According to the results of the experiment, both ventilation systems provided optimal indicators of air humidity, speed of its movement and maintained gas composition in the premises within the recommended limits. The geothermal room ventilation system allows you to create more comfortable temperature conditions for both piglets and sows, compared with the traditional ventilation system. The best microclimate conditions created by the geothermal ventilation system in the pigsty for carrying out farrowing contributed to improving the survival rate of piglets before the weaning period, the intensity of their growth, and the increase in live weight gain and nest mass at weaning both in autumn and spring. The research in this direction is planned to continue for other technological groups of pigs, and their results will be used in the design and reconstruction of pig farms.