Starting in pig farming requires careful planning and consideration of several important aspects. Beginners are advised to start small, typically with two to four weaner pigs, to gain experience before expanding. Always purchase pigs from reputable, disease-free sources and avoid buying from auction marts where animals from multiple sources are mixed. Ensure you ask critical questions about castration status, breed, vaccination, and health history before purchase. It is also crucial to book slaughter space in advance to avoid issues at market weight[1].
Proper housing is essential for pig health and productivity. Pig sheds should be built on dry, raised ground, ideally in a north-south orientation. The roof should be 8–10 ft high, with lower 4 ft sidewalls made of brick and cement and upper sections from wire or bamboo netting. The floor needs to be hard, non-slippery, and slightly sloped for drainage. Each pen should provide 80–100 sq ft and have proper feeding and water troughs. Exercise space, ample water supply, and a system for faecal disposal are also necessary[5].
Feeding and nutrition are key to healthy pig growth. Weaned pigs should continue on starter diets until they reach 18 kg. Feed should always be safe and unspoiled—never give pigs kitchen waste or potentially contaminated food. Clean, fresh water must be available at all times. Understanding the digestive system and designing an appropriate feeding program is vital, including supplementation for piglets with iron injections if needed to prevent anaemia[2].
Decide on the farming system that suits your location, resources, and goals. Options include:
- Intensive system: Full confinement, higher costs, best for commercial scale, and maximum control over health, feeding, and productivity.
- Semi-intensive system: Partial confinement, common in rural areas, moderate costs, and allows some access to open areas.
- Scavenging system: Pigs forage for part of their diet, lowest input, but also lowest productivity and control[5].
Breeding and piglet care are further core elements. Minimum breeding ages must be observed, and both boars and sows require specific management. Piglets may need supplemental feeding or iron, and practices like teeth trimming and tail cutting may be necessary for their welfare. Keeping good records of health, breeding, and feeding helps in tracking progress and addressing challenges promptly[2].
Consult locally relevant manuals and trusted guides for further details on housing, breeding, health management, economics, and marketing, as regulations and practicalities may vary in different regions. Engaging with experienced farmers and veterinary professionals is also recommended for ongoing learning and troubleshooting[1].