Breeding Gilts
- Gilts reach puberty around about 8-9 months old.
- Estrus is the period when the gilt will accept the male pig for reproduction.
- Estrus occurs roughly every 21 days (until they are bred) and lasts for about 2-3 days.
Getting gilts ready to breed.
There are a number of ways that may help to stimulate estrus;
- Placing the gilts on full feed for 7-14 days prior to breeding helps to increase the ovulation rate.
- Exposure to the boar can sometimes set off the gilts cycle.
- Taking a gilt on a short journey can sometimes trigger the cycle.
How to tell if a gilt is ready to breed.
There are a number of signs that may indicate that the gilt is ready to breed;
- Place pressure on the gilts back and she will just stand still.
- Her ears prick up.
- Tail may twitch.
- Vulva will be swollen and reddish.
- She may be restless and pacing up and down.
- The gilt may bark more often than normal.
A useful book for a new pig keeper and breeder is the book Starting With Pigs by Andy Case.
Starting With Pigs By Andy CaseStock Available: 11
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