Abstract
Pairs of littermate gilts were fed semipurified diets (2 kg d−1) containing either 10 or 52 ppm Zinc (Zn) throughout pregnancy and the two first weeks of lactation (ad libitum). Low dietary Zn did not affect feed consumption or weight changes of gilts. Low-Zn gilts showed lower plasma Zn and alkaline phosphatase activity (APA) throughout gestation and lactation and lower iron (Fe) and copper (Cu) before the last third of pregnancy. Urinary Zn was very sensitive to low Zn intake. Plasma protein and ammonia (NH3) were not affected by treatment. One-half of the deficient gilts exhibited skin lesions. Low-Zn gilts showed prolonged and stressful parturition with high incidence of intrapartum mortality reflected in the number of stillbirths. Total liveweight of the litter at birth, 1 and 2 wk of age was lower in Zn-deficient gilts. Low Zn supply did not affect the protein content or the profiles of the serum proteins of colostrum or milk but did affect the mineral composition. Colostrum of low-Zn gilts showed higher Cu, Fe and manganese (Mn), whereas milk showed lower Zn and higher Cu. Results obtained emphasize the importance of Zn for a normal pregnancy, delivery and nursing performance of the gilt. Key words: Zinc, gilts, pregnancy, lactation, piglets
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