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FEEDING YOUR SHOW PIG

The most important thing to remember when it comes to feeding your show pig is that every pig grows differently and requires different types of feed throughout the various stages of its life. 

Extremely muscular pig

Extremely muscular pig. Picture provided by Facebook

Sound show pig. Bred by Genter Show Stock.

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2018 Ohio State Fair Youth Gilt Show Division II Class Winner bred by Genter Show Stock

Muscular Show Pig

Sound Show Pig

Muscular pigs should be fed a lower protein content and a higher fat content. To fill out the gut of the pig, feed either rolled oats or barley.

Sound pigs should be fed a balanced diet of protein and fat. If the sound pig lacks gut fill, you can feed either rolled oats or barley. 

Each week, pigs will change. The amounts of protein and oats or barley that are fed can be adjusted. Remember, it is important to not drastically change the rations, as it adds stress to the pig. 

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Until your piglet reaches a weight of 100 pounds, choose a feed that is 18% protein and 4% fat. From 100 pounds to 200 pounds, the protein should be dropped to 16% and fat increased to 6%. At this point you should introduce either rolled oats or barley to enhance the pig's gut fill. After 200 pounds, the decision needs to be made as to whether the pig needs more protein for muscle or more fat for roundness. 

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As your pig grows and the amount of protein that is fed increases, the pig's muscles will become stiffer. If stiffness appears, immediately lower the amount of protein being fed. One additive we like to feed that prevents the pigs from getting too tight when they walk is Lubrisyn

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For pigs that are too round and lack muscle definition, the amount of protein should be increased. One way to achieve more muscle definition is to feed the pig Paylean. Always follow the feeding instructions as listed on the Paylean you choose to feed. 

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As show day approaches, you will want to feed your pig ShowBloom, which helps the pig's skin and hair. Skin and hair are very important. They keep your pig looking fresh. The second most important thing to remember when it comes to caring for your show pig is to keep your pig clean. Washing and conditioning the pig is pertinent if you want your pig to have good skin. 

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