Department of Animal Health and Production, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
Abonyi, F.O., Department of Animal Health and Production, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria; Omeke, B.C.O., Department of Animal Health and Production, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
Large White x Landrace crossbred primigravid pigs (n=24) were divided into four groups and randomly assigned to four diets replacing soya bean meal (SBM) at 0, 50, 75 and 100% levels with blood meal (BM). From farrowing through weaning, a lactating sow was fed 2.50 kg feed in addition to 0.20 kg per piglet farrowed. Body condition of the pigs was assessed at day 90, at term, mid lactation and weaning. Ten piglets from each group were used to evaluate the effects of the diets on the performance of their F1 offspring. There was no significant (P > 0.05) difference between different groups in mean gestation period, litter size, number of piglets weaned, litter weight, piglets' weight at mid lactation and at weaning. Pigs fed BM diets showed higher body condition score at weaning and it was most favourable in pigs where 75% SBM was replaced with BM. There was a rise in packed cell volume of the piglets as the level of BM inclusion increased. It indicated that BM can be included up to 7.5% level in the diet of gestating sows replacing SBM limited to 75%.