Environmental modifications in a pig growth model for early-weaned piglets

Abstract

A food-driven pig growth model was developed from two existing mathematical models. The new model predicts daily growth and heat production of early-weaned pigs. An existing pig growth model was altered by replacing the environmental component with a heat transfer model. The heat transfer model was further refined by partitioning latent heat loss between the skin and lungs, adding a thermal resistance for hair coat, and increasing tissue thermal resistance. Results from this combined model were compared with experimental observations of daily piglet growth and heat production at 15°C, 20°C, 25°C and 30°C. Good agreement existed between observed data and model predictions for piglet growth. Heat production predictions did not compare as well with experimental observations as did growth, especially when piglets lost weight.