PSV-4 Direct-fed microbial program improved survivability of nursery pigs in commercial production

Abstract

Abstract A total of 2,304 newly weaned pigs (5.8±0.06 Kg BW, ~21-day old, DNA Genetics) were used in a RCBD to evaluate the effect of a direct-fed microbial (DFM) program on pig performance and survivability, under commercial pig production. Pigs were housed in 2 barns (blocking factor) with 36 pens each (32 pigs/pen, mixed-sex), and pens randomized to treatments: Control or DFM program (36 pens/treatment). The program consisted of a DFM (blend 1) delivered through drinking water (1.32x108 CFU/pig/day) from day 0 to 7, followed by another DFM (blend 2) in feed (1.5x105 CFU/g of feed) from day 7 through 49. Those DFM consisted of spore-forming Bacillus sp. selected to inhibit enterotoxigenic E. coli growth (blend 1) and reduce local inflammation (blend 2). The feeding program included phases 1 and 2 (7 days each) in pellet, and phases 3 (11 days) and 4 (24 days) in meal. Phase 1 feeds included antibiotics Chlortetracycline and Tiamulin; both phase 4 feeds included Carbadox. A severe diarrhea outbreak was observed in week 3; antibiotic therapy (Neomycin, Sulfadiazine or Trimethoprim) throughout drinking water was used in both treatments alike between days 19 and 28. Pig and feed weight were recorded by pen; ADG and ADFI were calculated on pig-days. Pigs removed included mortality and those ill, nonresponsive to antibiotics. Performance data were analyzed by ANOVA, using the GLM procedure. Pigs removed did not follow normal distribution and was analyzed using a parametric survival option with days as time variable (JMP v14.2.0). No differences were detected through day 25. Pigs in DFM consumed less feed (923 vs. 951 g/d; SEM=10.33; P=0.05) and were more efficient (0.61 vs. 0.59 kg/kg; SEM=0.004; P< 0.05) from days 25 to 49. Total pigs removed were reduced (P< 0.05) by 23% in DFM vs. Control (Table 1). In conclusion, the DFM program improved nursery pig survivability and late performance, under commercial pig production that included a diarrhea outbreak and antibiotic therapy.