The most efficient time to add weight to cull sows is when they are in poorer body condition after lactation, especially the first 2 to 3 weeks after weaning. Regardless of body weight and body condition, sows have decreasing ADG and worse F/G the longer they are fed prior to marketing.
When should a sow be culled?
10-11 weeks of gestation .
All sows around weeks 10-11 of pregnancy should be carefully examined by the farm manager. Any sow that is deemed to be suboptimal should be marked for culling.
How do you determine sow for culling?
At weaning, check that sows meet the following criteria:
- in good overall health.
- no shoulder sores or other injuries.
- body condition score of 3 (See Action for Productivity 20: Condition scoring of sows)
- good conformation, e.g. gait and feet.
- at least 12 functional teats with no udder diseases or dysfunctions.
