Pigs are omnivores, meaning they eat both plant- and animal-based food. However, their diet must be carefully managed to include the right balance of:
Carbohydrates – Provide energy for daily activities and growth. (Sources of carbohydrates for pigs: corn, wheat, barley)
Proteins – Essential for muscle development. (Sources of protein for pigs: soybean meal, fish meal, cooked eggs)
Fats – Support weight gain and improve coat health. (Sources of fats for pigs: vegetable oils, animal fats)
Vitamins & Minerals – Strengthen immunity and bone health. (Sources of vitamins and minerals for pigs: calcium, phosphorus, salt, vitamin supplements)
Fiber – Aids digestion and overall gut health. (Sources of fiber for pigs: grass, hay, vegetables)
A well-balanced diet ensures pigs grow efficiently, remain active, and develop a strong immune system.
What We Feed Our Pigs at C&M Farm
At C&M Farm, we prioritize nutrition by providing a diverse and balanced diet. Here’s what we feed our pigs:
Commercial Pig Feed
Scientifically formulated feed ensures pigs receive the necessary nutrients at different stages:
- Starter Feed (0-8 Weeks): High protein (18-22%) for rapid growth.
- Grower Feed (8-16 Weeks): Moderate protein (14-18%) for steady development.
- Finisher Feed (16 Weeks & Above): Lower protein (12-14%) but energy-rich for weight gain.
Grains & Cereals
We supplement pig feed with grains such as:
- Corn
- Wheat
- Sorghum
- Rice bran
These provide essential carbohydrates for sustained energy.
Protein Sources
For strong muscle development, we include:
- Soybean meal
- Fish meal
- Cooked eggs
- Dairy by-products
Fresh Vegetables & Fruits
We enrich their diet with:
- Cabbage
- Cashew
- Carrots
- Pumpkins
- Bananas
- Watermelon
These provide extra vitamins and hydration, promoting overall health.
Kitchen & Farm Scraps (Carefully Selected)
We recycle safe leftovers such as:
- Cooked rice
- Cassava peels
- Vegetable scraps
However, not all scraps are safe for pigs. Let’s look at foods to avoid.
Foods Pigs Should Never Eat
To prevent health issues, we never feed pigs:
- Raw Meat or Spoiled Food – Can cause diseases.
- Moldy or Rotten Feed – Leads to poisoning.
- Excess Salt or Sugary Foods – Harms digestion.
- Uncooked Beans or Raw Potatoes – Contain toxins dangerous to pigs.
Always check feed quality to ensure safety and avoid health risks.
Feeding Schedule & Best Practices
Consistency in feeding improves digestion and growth. At C&M Farm, we follow this schedule:
- Piglets (0-8 Weeks): 4–5 small meals per day.
- Growing Pigs (8-16 Weeks): 2–3 meals per day.
- Adult Pigs (16 Weeks & Above): 2 meals per day with occasional snacks.
Key Feeding Tips:
Always provide clean drinking water.
Avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity.
Feed pigs at the same times daily for better digestion.
Conclusion
Providing the right diet for pigs ensures healthy growth, high-quality meat, and increased profitability. Whether using commercial feed, grains, or vegetables, balance is key.
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