Piglets born small or exposed to stressful experiences early in life are more likely to grow poorly. These animals increase size differences within the group, which can lead to higher production costs for the farmer. The objective of the present study was to evaluate metabolic indicators and dietary habits in light-born piglets with varying early-life growth rates. Weanling piglets were raised under conditions similar to those on a commercial farm. Their individual feeding behavior was recorded daily, and body weight was measured weekly from weaning to day 58 of age. Information on body weight during lactation was also available. Based on this data, the piglets were classified as fast or slow growers during two key stages, the suckling stage and the post-weaning nursery stage. Piglets with slow growth showed less time interacting with the feeder and presented an increase in metabolic indicators of inflammation, protein breakdown, stress, and depression. These differences were shaped more strongly by the growth rate classes in the suckling phase than the classes for the nursery phase, with effects that remained evident until day 58. The results suggest that what piglets experience early in life has a big impact on their feeding habits and their development.

Read the full article in the Journal of Animal Science.