Many ranchers will say that keeping pigs is very profitable and convenient because they grow quickly and have a lot of meat or fat. Especially popular is such a breed as the Russian white pig. Let’s take a closer look at why it’s so popular.
Russian white pig
Characteristics of the breed
The pig is highly productive. She can produce up to 12 piglets at a time. If necessary, she is able to independently exit her offspring. The animal is kind and obedient. When properly handled, it will become very affectionate.
Origin
Despite the name, the breed originated in England. The farmers decided to breed a pure individual and as a result received a large light-colored pig. The Russian breed became only in 1975, when it was brought to Russia, where it quickly gained its popularity. Our breeders have created larger animals with more meat, our individuals are more prolific and more resilient to environmental changes. All over the world, our breed has become widespread under the name “Russian White Pig”.
Appearance
You might say that this pig is no different, but it’s not. Only an experienced pastoralist or farmer will be able to see these features. They are not so noticeable, mostly hidden at the inner level. Appearance characteristics:
- the breed of Russian white pigs is distinguished by a small head with a wide forehead;
- the weight is quite small compared to other breeds;
- large elastic ears;
- the animal is wide and long with a deep chest;
- massive back in the form of an arc;
- legs are straight, without folds;
- heavy weight: up to 400 kilograms with proper nutrition;
What does the breed look like?
That is why this type of animal is so popular. Despite the huge number of advantages, there are also disadvantages: a tendency to obesity, does not tolerate heat and severe frosts. But still, this variety is in the lead. And this is not surprising.
Productivity
This species has excellent productivity and occupies a leading position in the world. The pig has a lot of meat and fat. The young individual grows quickly, which is very beneficial for the farm. And the mass is gaining, one might say, with lightning speed. Keeping such a breed is quite profitable, since as a result you can get a large amount of fat and meat, which is not observed in other breeds. It is the meat product of this animal that is presented at most exhibitions of the achievement of the national economy or at fairs.
Feeding
To achieve the desired result, it is necessary to pay attention to feeding, because pigs will grow only with proper nutrition. To do this, feeding should be constant and voluminous, this rule should not be neglected. An adult needs from 5 kilograms of feed. In addition, you need to feed at least 3 times a day, and the most optimal amount is 5 times.
What can you feed a pig:
- raw or boiled vegetables. Vegetables contain trace elements that are so necessary for the growth and development of an individual;
- special food for growth;
- bran – the most common option for feeding livestock;
- milk products. They are especially necessary for young animals;
- legumes contain a large amount of protein, they are needed for muscle growth;
- grass, hay is not only a nutritious product, but also bedding in winter;
- fruit;
- cereals;
- minerals and vitamins.
Complete nutrition products for pigs
In perfection, it is necessary to give a full range of all these products, but this is very difficult and very costly. You can not feed the missing or something poisonous to avoid diseases in the animal. Medicines for parasites and infectious diseases should be used regularly. What not to feed pigs:
- castor beans;
- cotton;
- milkweed, buttercup, nightshade;
- sprouted potatoes;
- food with mold, fungus;
- missing or poisonous food;
- walnut leaves.
All of these foods can cause serious problems, even death.
Care
Feeding alone is not enough, proper care is also needed. After all, a clean and kind pig is still better than an evil and dirty one. That is why some rules must be followed.
The room must be warm enough, fresh air should not stagnate – constant ventilation is necessary. The flooring is best made in the form of a grid so that moisture and waste do not linger. In addition, the room must be regularly cleaned and disinfected. Separate sections are needed for each pig so that they do not interfere with each other. There should also be a place for cattle walking and bathing.
pregnant pig
If you have a pregnant pig, then it must be moved to a separate section without fail. It requires special care: more food and constant availability of water. Liquid is the basis of the well-being of any animal, especially a pregnant one. After 3 days, after the birth of piglets, they can be offered dairy products. You can pick them up no earlier than 3-4 months later.
The conditions of detention must be taken seriously in order to avoid various diseases.
Breeding
The big plus is that pigs grow very quickly. Therefore, mating can be done as early as 9 months, and the animals will weigh about 100 kilograms during this period. The pregnancy cycle lasts about 110 days. How to determine that the female is ready for mating:
- redness and swelling of the genitals;
- estrus;
- nervous and periodically screaming;
- no appetite.
Attention! If these signs are not found, then the male should not be allowed. Females in an unexcited state can injure or even kill him.
As already mentioned: 3 days after the birth of piglets, they can be offered dairy products. This is necessary in order for the individual to gain weight as quickly as possible. After 3 months, the pig can be separated from the mother – she is ready for adulthood.
Conclusion
Thus, with proper care of the Russian white pig, you can achieve great success in breeding this animal. Do not neglect any of the above rules. Failure to comply can result in livestock not growing and dying from disease. Compliance with all norms is the key to a happy future. And even such a large and hardy individual requires a good attitude.
