Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
mended as an outdoor waterer. Nipple drinkers have to be purchased and are not homemade
devices.
A hog watering tank can hold between 35 and 250 gallons of water. These tanks have a “hog
drinker,” or a trough cut in the side where the pigs can drink. They automatically refill them-
selves with water, and they can be heated for winter watering outdoors. However, these tanks
are hard to keep clean if you are raising your pigs on dirt flooring. When the pig puts his head
into the trough, it is washing its face in the drinking water. A hog watering tank does make it
easy to give pigs medicine or supplements because you will know how many gallons are in
the waterer and can mix appropriately.
The most expensive way to provide your pigs with water is with an automatic heated watering
tank. This watering system is beneficial because the water flow is automatic, and this system
has a flip lid that pigs learn to use. This prevents dirt and debris from entering the tank. The
tanks can be drained for cleaning, which means they are less work for the farmer.
Feeders
A feeding dish or tub can work well if you are raising one or two pigs. If you are feeding sev-
eral pigs, you will need to use a trough with dividers to keep pigs from being too greedy.
Otherwise, a dominant pig may stand in the trough and prevent the other pigs from eating or
try to claim all of the feed by pushing the other pigs away from the trough.
Some farmers prefer to feed their pigs by putting feed on the ground for them and scattering it
around the pen, away from sleeping and bathroom areas. This method is most often used by
small farmers who prefer a more natural approach to raising their pigs because it allows pigs
to eat their food off the ground as they would if they were grazing or foraging.
Wall feeders are another option for feeding your pigs. Piglets that have not been weaned yet
are frequently fed by means of wall feeders in the creep, or the part of the farrowing area
where the sow cannot follow them, when they begin having their first meals. This prevents
the sow from trying to get their feed and being in competition with them for food.
Hayracks, such as those used for horses, can be set at a height comfortable for your pigs to
use, and filled with hay, alfalfa, or other grasses. This is a good option for your pigs when
they are indoors. Hay is usually left in a bale when it is provided to pigs outdoors, or the pigs
use the automatic feeders.
