# Nursery Pig Feed Intake Monitoring and Adjustment ## Key Takeaways - Nursery pig feed intake is the primary indicator of health and performance, with expected daily consumption rising from 0.5-1.0 lb in week one post-weaning to 2.0-3.0 lb by week six. - The initial 48 hours post-weaning are critical; zero feed disappearance or a >20% drop from the prior 3-day average necessitates immediate investigation. - Environmental factors like temperature (75-85°F thermal neutral zone, decreasing weekly) and drafts, along with feeder adjustments (maintaining a thin feed layer, <5% wastage) and water flow (≥1 cup/minute per nipple), directly impact intake. - Diet palatability and digestibility are paramount, especially for young pigs transitioning from milk; gradual diet phase changes (3-7 days blending) prevent intake drops and digestive upset. - Health status is a major variable; diseases like PRRS, PED, and swine influenza reduce appetite, and intervention is critical if intake drops for >48 hours or multiple pens are affected. --- Nursery pig feed intake is the single most important indicator of health, comfort, and performance in the post-weaning period. This guide covers how to measure feed intake accurately, interpret the numbers you see, troubleshoot common causes of low consumption, and adjust feeding programs to keep pigs moving toward their growth targets. It is written for farm owners, herd managers, and caretakers who work directly with nursery-age pigs and need practical methods they can apply today. ## At a Glance | Key Point | Practical Takeaway | |---|---| | Expected intake baseline | Nursery pigs should consume 0.5 to 1.0 pounds of feed per day in week one post-weaning, rising to 2.0 to 3.0 pounds by week six | | Critical window | The first 48 hours after weaning determine the trajectory for the entire nursery phase | | Monitoring frequency | Check feed disappearance daily, assess individual feeder condition twice daily | | Warning threshold | Any day with zero feed disappearance or a drop of more than 20 percent from the previous three-day average requires immediate investigation | | Feeder adjustment | Adjust feeder gaps and flow rates when feed wastage exceeds 5 percent or when pigs are rooting and pushing | | Water is connected | Feed intake falls when water flow rates drop below 1 cup per minute or when there is one nipple per 10 pigs or fewer | | Record what matters | Track daily feed per pen, weekly average daily gain, and mortality events to spot problems early | | Call for help | Contact a veterinarian when feed intake drops for more than 48 hours, when pigs show signs of dehydration, or when multiple pens are affected at the same time | ## Understanding Normal Nursery Pig Feed Intake Nursery pig feed intake follows a predictable pattern after weaning, but every farm has its own normal range. The key is knowing what is typical for your facility, your genetics, and your weaning age, then responding when the numbers move away from that baseline. ### The [Weaning Transition](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/weaning-transition-feed-and-water-management) and Its Effect on Intake Weaning is a sudden and stressful change for a piglet. In a single day, the pig loses access to sow milk and must learn to eat dry feed, drink from a nipple, and live without its mother. This transition is the hardest nutritional challenge a pig faces in its life. The digestive system of a newly weaned pig is still developing. Enzyme production changes as the pig moves from a milk-based diet to a grain and soybean meal based diet. The intestinal lining shortens its villi, which reduces the surface area available for nutrient absorption. This temporary reduction in digestive capacity means the pig cannot handle large meals all at once. Pigs that eat too much too quickly can develop scours, while pigs that eat too little lose weight and become vulnerable to disease. Most pigs lose some weight in the first two to three days after weaning. A loss of 1 to 3 percent of body weight is common and acceptable. Pigs should return to their weaning weight within 7 to 10 days. Feed intake in the first week typically ranges from 0.5 to 1.0 pounds per pig per day, though this varies with weaning age and diet complexity. ### Age-Based Intake Expectations Use these ranges as starting points for your farm. Adjust them based on your own records and the genetics you raise. | Week Post-Weaning | Pig Age | Expected Feed per Pig per Day | Expected Cumulative Feed per Pig | |---|---|---|---| | Week 1 | 21 to 28 days | 0.5 to 1.0 lb | 3.5 to 7.0 lb | | Week 2 | 28 to 35 days | 1.0 to 1.5 lb | 10.5 to 17.5 lb | | Week 3 | 35 to 42 days | 1.5 to 2.0 lb | 21.0 to 31.5 lb | | Week 4 | 42 to 49 days | 2.0 to 2.5 lb | 35.0 to 49.0 lb | | Week 5 | 49 to 56 days | 2.5 to 3.0 lb | 52.5 to 70.0 lb | | Week 6 | 56 to 63 days | 3.0 to 3.5 lb | 73.5 to 91.0 lb | These numbers assume pigs are weaned at about 21 days of age and weigh 12 to 15 pounds at weaning. Pigs weaned at older ages or heavier weights will eat more in the first week. Pigs weaned younger will eat less and need more time to reach their growth potential. ### Factors That Shift the Normal Range Several factors change what is normal for your farm. Track these variables so you can interpret intake data correctly. Weaning age matters. A pig weaned at 17 days has a less mature digestive system than a pig weaned at 28 days. The younger pig will eat less in the first week and will take longer to reach consistent intake. Weaning weight matters just as much. A 10-pound pig has a smaller stomach capacity than a 15-pound pig and cannot physically consume the same amount of feed. Diet complexity changes intake. Starter diets with high levels of milk products, fish meal, and highly digestible ingredients encourage intake because they taste good and are easy to digest. Simple corn and soybean meal diets are less palatable and may reduce early intake. The pelleting process also affects consumption. Pigs often eat more pelleted feed than meal feed because pellets are easier to pick up and less dusty. Season and barn temperature play a role. Pigs in hot weather eat less because they reduce heat production from digestion. Pigs in cold drafts eat more to stay warm but may waste more feed as they huddle and shiver. The thermal neutral zone for nursery pigs is roughly 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit in the first week, decreasing by about 2 degrees per week as pigs grow. Health status is the biggest variable. A barn with active disease challenges will have lower feed intake across all pens. Respiratory disease, enteric disease, and systemic infections all reduce appetite. Even subclinical disease can lower intake by 5 to 15 percent without obvious symptoms. ## [Monitoring Feed Intake](/knowledge/animal-farming/farm-management/monitoring-feed-intake-tools-techniques) in Nursery Pigs Monitoring nursery pig feed intake requires a system. You need to measure feed disappearance accurately, observe pig behavior at the feeder, and record the data in a way that lets you spot trends. A haphazard approach will miss the early warning signs that precede a health or performance problem. ### Setting Up Your Monitoring System The foundation of feed intake monitoring is accurate measurement. This starts with the feeder itself. Each pen should have a feeder that can be emptied and weighed, or you need a reliable way to estimate how much feed is in the feeder at any given time. The most accurate method is a weigh scale system. Many modern nursery barns have feeders that sit on load cells or use a hopper scale. These systems continuously measure the weight of feed in the feeder and transmit the data to a computer or mobile device. You can see feed disappearance in real time and get alerts when intake drops. If you do not have automated scales, use the manual weigh-back method. This is simple but requires consistency. Follow these steps: 1. Fill each feeder to a marked level at the same time each day. 2. Weigh the feed you add using a bucket scale or a calibrated scoop. 3. Record the amount added to each pen. 4. At the end of the week, empty the feeder and weigh the remaining feed. 5. Subtract the weigh-back from the total added to get weekly consumption. 6. Divide by the number of pig days in the pen to get average daily feed intake per pig. The manual method only gives you weekly averages, not daily numbers. To get daily estimates without scales, use the feeder level method. Mark the inside of each feeder at 5-pound intervals using a permanent marker or tape. Each day, estimate the feed level and record it. The difference between yesterday's level and today's level is approximate daily disappearance. This method is less accurate but catches major problems. ### Daily Observation Routines Walk the nursery barn at least twice per day, ideally at the same times. Morning and late afternoon are the best times because pigs are most active around feeding and when the barn is quiet. During each walk, look at every feeder. Note the feed level in the trough. A properly adjusted feeder should have a thin layer of feed covering about 50 to 75 percent of the trough bottom. Pigs should be able to see feed without rooting or pushing the feeder. If the trough is empty, pigs are being limited. If feed is piled deep, the feeder is set too aggressively and waste is likely. Watch pig behavior at the feeder. Healthy, hungry pigs approach the feeder readily and eat with enthusiasm. They stand with their front feet in the trough and make audible eating sounds. Pigs that are reluctant to approach, that sniff feed and walk away, or that lie near the feeder without eating are telling you something is wrong. Check water availability at the same time. Each nipple drinker should deliver at least one cup of water per minute. A simple flow test takes 30 seconds per drinker. Hold a cup under the nipple, activate it, and time how long it takes to fill. If flow is slow, clean or replace the drinker. Pigs cannot eat without drinking, and water restriction is one of the fastest ways to reduce feed intake. ### What to Record Keep a simple daily record for each pen. You do not need complex software, though it helps. A whiteboard in the barn or a spreadsheet on a tablet works well. Record the following for each pen: - Date and time of observation - Estimated feed level in the feeder - Amount of feed added that day - Number of pigs in the pen - Any pigs that appear sick, lethargic, or off feed - Barn temperature and any ventilation changes - Water flow test results if checked - Any treatment given Review these records weekly. Calculate average daily feed intake per pig for each pen. Compare pens within the same age group. A pen that is consistently below its cohorts needs attention even if it has not hit a crisis threshold. ### Using Technology for Monitoring Automated feeding systems have become more common in nursery barns. These systems can track individual feeder visits, measure meal size, and calculate daily intake for each pen. Some systems even use cameras and artificial intelligence to estimate pig weights and feeder occupancy. The advantage of these systems is early detection. A pig that normally visits the feeder 20 times per day and suddenly visits only 5 times is showing early signs of illness. Automated alerts can notify you before the pig looks sick. This allows you to treat earlier, which improves response rates and reduces mortality. If you have automated systems, verify them against manual observations at least once per week. Sensors can drift, feeders can bridge, and software can misreport. A quick visual check catches these problems before they corrupt your data. ## Troubleshooting Low Feed Intake When feed intake drops, work through a systematic checklist to find the cause. Do not assume disease is the only explanation. Many intake problems trace back to the environment, the feeder, or the diet. Rule out the simple causes first, then dig deeper. ### Environmental Causes Temperature is the first thing to check. Nursery pigs are sensitive to both heat and cold. In the first week after weaning, pigs need a floor temperature of 85 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit and an air temperature of 78 to 82 degrees. If pigs are too cold, they huddle together and spend their energy keeping warm instead of eating. If they are too hot, they spread out, pant, and reduce feed intake to lower their heat production. Look at pig behavior to assess temperature. Pigs lying in a tight pile with their heads buried are cold. Pigs lying spread out on slatted floors with rapid breathing are hot. Pigs lying in a loose group with some touching and some not are comfortable. Adjust heaters, ventilation, or bedding accordingly. Drafts are a hidden cause of low intake. A draft at pig level can make a pig feel cold even when the barn thermostat reads correctly. Check for drafts by holding a candle or a smoke pen at pig level near the feeder and along the walls. If the flame flickers or the smoke moves, you have a draft. Seal gaps around doors, curtains, and wall joints. Air quality matters more than many producers realize. High ammonia levels irritate the respiratory tract and reduce feed intake. If you can smell ammonia when you walk into the barn, levels are too high. Increase ventilation, clean pits more frequently, and check that fans and inlets are working properly. Carbon dioxide levels above 3,000 parts per million also depress appetite. ### Feeder and Water Issues Feeder adjustment is a common culprit in low intake. If the feeder gap is too narrow, pigs cannot access feed easily and will eat less. If the gap is too wide, feed flows out and is wasted, which makes it look like intake is higher than it really is. Check the feeder gap for each pen. The gap should be wide enough for a pig to insert its snout and eat comfortably but narrow enough to prevent feed from flowing out when the pig is not eating. A good starting point is 1 to 1.5 inches for nursery pigs, adjusted based on pig size and feeder design. Watch pigs eating for a few minutes. If they are pushing hard to reach feed, widen the gap slightly. If feed is piling in the trough, narrow the gap. Feed bridging is another problem. In humid conditions or with certain feed formulations, feed can bridge across the hopper and stop flowing. Pigs will root and push at the feeder but cannot reach feed. Check each feeder daily by tapping the hopper and watching for feed to flow. If you see pigs working hard at an empty trough, break up the bridge immediately. Water problems directly reduce feed intake. Pigs will not eat if they cannot drink. Check water flow rates weekly. Each nipple drinker should deliver 1 to 2 cups per minute. Water pressure should be adequate for all drinkers in the pen to operate at the same time. Check that drinkers are at the correct height. A drinker that is too high or too low discourages use. The drinker should be at shoulder height of the smallest pig in the pen. Drinker placement relative to the feeder matters. Pigs prefer to eat and drink in the same area. If drinkers are far from feeders, pigs may not drink enough after eating, which reduces their appetite for the next meal. Place drinkers within 3 to 4 feet of the feeder when possible. ### Diet and Feeding Program Issues Palatability drives intake in the first days after weaning. Nursery diets are formulated with highly palatable ingredients specifically to encourage intake. If you switch to a less palatable diet too quickly, intake will drop. The transition from sow milk to dry feed is the hardest. Many farms use a creep feed in the farrowing house to introduce solid feed before weaning. Pigs that have eaten creep feed before weaning adapt faster and eat more in the first week after weaning. If you are not creep feeding, consider starting it at 10 to 14 days of age. Diet phase changes are a common time for intake drops. Each time you move pigs to a new diet, expect a 1 to 3 day adjustment period. To minimize this, blend the old and new diets over 3 to 4 days. Start with 75 percent old and 25 percent new, then 50/50, then 25/75, then all new. This gradual transition helps maintain intake and reduces digestive upset. Feed form affects intake. Pellets generally support higher intake than meal because they are more palatable and easier to eat. If you switch from pellets to meal, expect a drop in intake. If you are feeding meal, consider a coarse grind rather than a fine grind. Very fine meal is dusty and pigs avoid it. Feed should have a consistent particle size and no mold or off-odor. ### Health and Disease Causes When environmental, feeder, and diet issues are ruled out, suspect disease. Disease reduces feed intake through several mechanisms. Fever increases metabolic rate and reduces appetite. Gut infections reduce nutrient absorption and cause pain. Respiratory infections make it hard to eat and breathe at the same time. Common diseases that reduce feed intake in nursery pigs include: - [Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome](/knowledge/viruses/general/porcine-reproductive-and-respiratory-syndrome-genomic-surveillance-and-vaccine-strategies-using-bioinformatics) (PRRS) - Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea (PED) - [Swine Influenza](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/clinical-methods/swine-swine-influenza-diagnosis-management) - Streptococcus suis infections - Mycoplasma pneumonia - Ileitis ([Lawsonia intracellularis](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/lawsonia-intracellularis)) - Rotavirus and other enteric viruses - Systemic bacterial infections Look for other signs of disease beyond low intake. Check for fever, lethargy, rough hair coats, diarrhea, coughing, sneezing, and lameness. A pig that is off feed and shows any of these signs needs attention. Isolate the pig if possible and contact your veterinarian for guidance. Parasites also reduce feed intake. Internal parasites compete with the pig for nutrients and damage the intestinal lining. External parasites such as mange mites cause irritation that distracts pigs from eating. Follow a regular deworming protocol and monitor for signs of infestation. ### Social and Behavioral Causes Pigs are social animals with a clear hierarchy. When pigs are mixed at weaning, they establish a dominance order over the first few days. This social stress reduces feed intake, especially for subordinate pigs. Feeder space per pig affects social competition. Each pig needs about 1.5 to 2 inches of feeder trough space. If feeder space is inadequate, dominant pigs will eat first and smaller pigs will be pushed away. This creates uneven intake within the pen, where some pigs thrive and others fall behind. If you see consistent variation in pig size within a pen, check feeder space and pig behavior. You may need to sort pigs by size or add a second feeder. Some farms use a step-down feeder design that allows smaller pigs to eat while larger pigs are blocked. These feeders have a narrower opening that excludes larger pigs. Group size and stocking density affect intake. Overcrowded pens increase competition and stress. Nursery pigs need about 2.5 to 3 square feet per pig in a fully slatted facility. If pigs are overcrowded, reduce group size or move pigs to another pen. ## Adjusting Feed for Nursery Pigs Adjusting the feeding program for nursery pigs is about more than changing the diet. It involves adjusting feeder settings, feeding frequency, diet transitions, and the physical environment to support maximum intake. Make adjustments based on data, not guesses. ### Daily Adjustment of Feeder Settings Check feeder settings daily during the first two weeks after weaning. Pigs grow quickly and their needs change just as fast. A feeder setting that worked on day one will be wrong by day seven. The goal is to have feed available at all times while minimizing waste. This is called ad libitum feeding, meaning feed is always available. Pigs should never run out of feed, but they should also not be able to waste it. The feeder adjustment process is simple. Watch the trough for 5 minutes after filling. If feed is piled more than 1 inch deep, close the feeder gap slightly. If the trough is empty within 30 minutes, open the gap slightly. The correct setting has a thin layer of feed visible across the trough bottom with pigs actively eating. Check for feed wastage regularly. Look under the slats and in the pit beneath the feeder. If you see significant amounts of feed accumulating, your feeder is set too aggressively. Feed waste is expensive and also attracts flies and rodents. A 5 percent wastage rate is considered acceptable. Above that, adjust the feeder. ### Diet Phase Adjustments Most nursery programs use 3 to 4 diet phases, with each phase lasting 1 to 2 weeks. The phases are designed to match the pig's digestive development and changing nutrient needs. Phase 1 is the starter diet, fed for the first 7 to 10 days after weaning. This diet is highly palatable and digestible, with high levels of milk products, plasma, fish meal, and other specialty ingredients. It is expensive but essential for getting pigs eating quickly. Phase 2 is the transition diet, fed from about day 7 to day 21. This diet gradually reduces the specialty ingredients and increases the level of conventional ingredients like soybean meal. The goal is to maintain intake while reducing diet cost. Phase 3 is the grower diet, fed from about day 21 to day 42. This diet is closer to a conventional grower diet and relies on the pig's now-mature digestive system. By this point, pigs should be eating 2 to 3 pounds per day and gaining 1.2 to 1.5 pounds per day. The transition between phases is where most intake problems occur. Use the blending approach described earlier. If you see a significant intake drop during a phase transition, slow down the transition. Extend the blending period to 5 to 7 days instead of 3 to 4. ### Feeding Frequency and Timing Nursery pigs should have continuous access to feed. Ad libitum feeding is the standard for nursery pigs because their digestive systems are small and they need to eat frequent small meals. Do not limit-feed nursery pigs unless directed by a veterinarian for a specific health reason. If you are hand-feeding rather than using a self-feeder, feed at least 4 times per day in the first week. Pigs cannot consume enough in 2 feedings to meet their needs. As pigs grow, you can reduce feeding frequency, but never go below 2 feedings per day. The timing of feed delivery matters. Pigs are most active in the morning and late afternoon. Deliver fresh feed during these peak activity times to encourage intake. Fresh feed has better aroma and is more appealing than feed that has been sitting in the trough for hours. ### Adjusting for Individual Pigs Within any group of pigs, there will be individual variation in intake. Some pigs are naturally aggressive eaters, while others are timid. Some pigs are healthy and thrive, while others struggle with disease or injury. Monitor individual pigs, especially in the first week after weaning. Identify pigs that are not eating and intervene early. These are the pigs that will become runts if left alone. Options for intervention include: - Moving the pig to a smaller pen with less competition - Providing a separate creep area with easy feeder access - Offering a highly palatable gruel or slurry feed - Drenching with an electrolyte solution to support hydration - Treating with antibiotics if infection is suspected Pigs that do not eat within 48 hours of weaning need aggressive intervention. These pigs are at high risk of starvation and disease. Work with your veterinarian to develop a protocol for these problem pigs. ### Adjusting the Environment to Support Intake The environment has a direct effect on feed intake. Pigs eat more when they are comfortable. Managing the environment is part of the feeding program. Provide a warm, draft-free zone in the first week. Use heat lamps, heat mats, or brooders to create a temperature gradient in the pen. Pigs can choose where to lie based on their comfort needs. The feeding area should be in the comfortable zone, not in a cold draft or under a heat lamp. Lighting affects intake. Pigs eat more in well-lit areas. Provide at least 10 to 20 lux of light over the feeder. Natural light is best if the barn design allows it. If using artificial light, use a timer to provide 12 to 16 hours of light per day. Reduce noise and disturbance. Pigs are easily startled, and stress reduces intake. Minimize sudden noises, avoid walking through pens unnecessarily, and handle pigs gently. If you need to move pigs, use a solid board rather than an electric prod. ## Common Mistakes in Nursery Pig Feed Management Even experienced producers make mistakes with nursery pig feeding. Recognizing these common errors can help you avoid them. ### Mistake 1: Relying on Visual Assessment Instead of Weighing Feed Many producers estimate feed intake by looking at feeders and guessing. This is unreliable. A feeder can look full when feed has bridged and pigs cannot access it. A feeder can look half full when it is actually almost empty. Weigh feed regularly. Use a scale for every feed delivery. Track the numbers. Visual assessment is a supplement to weighing, not a replacement. ### Mistake 2: Checking Feeders Only Once Per Day A lot can change in 24 hours. A pig can go off feed in the morning and be severely dehydrated by evening. Checking feeders once per day misses these rapid changes. Check feeders at least twice per day. More frequent checks are better in the first week after weaning. Each check takes only a few minutes and can catch problems before they become crises. ### Mistake 3: Ignoring Water Until Pigs Look Thirsty Water intake and feed intake are linked. Pigs drink about 2 to 3 pounds of water for every pound of feed consumed. If water is restricted, feed intake drops. Test water flow weekly. Check drinker height and position. Clean drinkers regularly to prevent blockage. Do not wait for signs of dehydration before addressing water issues. ### Mistake 4: Changing Diets Too Quickly Nursery pigs have sensitive digestive systems. Sudden diet changes cause digestive upset and reduced intake. The transition between diet phases should take 3 to 7 days, not 1 day. Plan diet transitions in advance. Order feed early so you have both diets available for blending. Do not run out of one diet and switch cold to the next because you have no other option. ### Mistake 5: Overlooking Feeder Adjustment as Pigs Grow Feeder settings that work for 12-pound pigs do not work for 25-pound pigs. As pigs grow, they need more feeder space and a wider gap. A feeder that is too narrow limits intake and creates competition. A feeder that is too wide wastes feed. Adjust feeder settings weekly. Watch pig behavior and adjust accordingly. Write the settings on a card attached to each feeder so you know what was set and when. ### Mistake 6: Treating All Pens the Same Each pen has its own microclimate, its own social dynamics, and its own health status. Pens within the same barn can have very different feed intake patterns. Treating all pens the same ignores these differences. Monitor each pen individually. Adjust feeders and environment for each pen based on its specific conditions. A pen near a door will have different draft patterns than a pen in the center of the barn. A pen with a dominant pig will have different feeder dynamics than a pen with a balanced social structure. ### Mistake 7: Waiting Too Long to Call for Help Some producers wait days or even weeks before calling a veterinarian about low feed intake. This delay costs money in reduced performance and increased mortality. Early intervention is always cheaper than late intervention. Set clear thresholds for when to call. If feed intake drops by more than 20 percent for 48 hours, call. If multiple pens are affected, call. If pigs show signs of disease beyond low intake, call. Do not wait for pigs to die before seeking help. ## Decision Thresholds for Intervention Knowing when to intervene is as important as knowing how to intervene. Use these thresholds to guide your decision-making. These are general guidelines. Your veterinarian may set different thresholds based on your farm's history and disease status. ### Feed Intake Thresholds - A single day with zero feed disappearance in a pen requires immediate investigation. Check the feeder, check the water, check the pigs. Find the cause before the next feeding. - A drop of 20 percent or more from the previous 3-day average requires investigation within 12 hours. This is a significant change that suggests a problem. - A drop of 10 to 20 percent over 2 to 3 days requires monitoring and a review of recent changes. Check if you changed diet, feeder settings, or environment recently. - A pen that consistently eats 10 percent less than its cohorts needs attention even without a sudden drop. This may indicate a subclinical problem. ### Pig Behavior Thresholds - More than 5 percent of pigs in a pen not eating at any given observation requires investigation. Watch the pen for 15 minutes and count how many pigs visit the feeder. - Pigs that lie at the feeder without eating are showing a problem. They are hungry but cannot or will not eat. Check feed quality and feeder function. - Pigs that drink excessively may be trying to compensate for a feed problem. Excessive water consumption with low feed intake suggests the diet is unpalatable or the feed is spoiled. ### Physical Condition Thresholds - More than 5 percent of pigs with sunken flanks or visible backbone indicate inadequate intake. These pigs are losing condition and need intervention. - Any pig that loses weight in the first week after weaning needs individual attention. Some weight loss is normal, but pigs that continue to lose weight beyond day 7 need help. - More than 2 percent of pigs with rough hair coats and dull appearance indicates a group problem. This may be disease or a nutritional issue. ### Environmental Thresholds - Barn temperature more than 5 degrees outside the target range requires adjustment. Check thermostats, heaters, and ventilation. - Ammonia levels that you can smell require immediate ventilation changes. Open inlets, increase fan speed, or clean the pit. - Water flow below 1 cup per minute at any drinker requires immediate repair. Pigs cannot stay hydrated with inadequate flow. ## Recordkeeping for Feed Intake Monitoring Good recordkeeping is the foundation of effective feed management. You cannot manage what you do not measure. A simple, consistent recordkeeping system provides the data you need to make informed decisions. ### What to Track Track these metrics for each group of pigs from weaning to nursery exit: - Weaning date and weaning weight - Number of pigs per pen - Daily feed added per pen - Weekly feed weigh-back per pen - Weekly average daily feed intake per pig - Weekly average daily gain - [Feed conversion ratio](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/feed-conversion-ratio-measuring-improving-poultry-efficiency) (pounds of feed per pound of gain) - Mortality and culling rates - Treatment records - Barn temperature and ventilation settings - Water flow test results ### How to Organize Records Use a format that works for your operation. A simple spreadsheet is sufficient for most farms. Create a tab for each nursery group with columns for each metric. Update records daily. Do not wait until the end of the week to enter data. Daily entry takes 10 minutes and ensures accuracy. If you wait, you will forget details and the data will be less useful. Review records weekly. Calculate averages and trends. Compare pens within the group. Compare this group to previous groups. Identify patterns and make adjustments. ### Using Records to Make Decisions Records are not just for looking back. They should drive decisions going forward. Use intake records to decide when to change diet phases. Do not change on a fixed schedule alone. Change when the group has achieved the target intake for the current phase for at least 3 consecutive days. Use intake records to identify problem pens early. A pen that falls behind in intake will fall behind in weight gain. Intervene before the gap widens. Use intake records to evaluate the impact of management changes. If you change feeders, diets, or environment, compare intake before and after the change. This tells you whether the change helped or hurt. Use intake records to set benchmarks for your farm. After several groups, you will know what is normal for your facility. Use these benchmarks to evaluate new groups and to set improvement targets. ## Working with Your Veterinarian and Extension Agent Nursery pig feed intake problems often require professional help. Knowing when and how to involve your veterinarian or local extension agent can save you money and improve outcomes. ### When to Call a Veterinarian Call your veterinarian under these circumstances: - Feed intake drops by more than 20 percent for more than 48 hours - Multiple pens are affected at the same time - Pigs show signs of disease beyond low intake, such as fever, diarrhea, coughing, or lethargy - Mortality increases above your farm's baseline - Pigs are dehydrated or showing signs of starvation - You suspect a feed quality problem, such as mold or contamination - You are unsure of the cause of a feed intake problem Do not wait for these conditions to become severe before calling. Early intervention is more effective and less expensive than emergency treatment. ### Preparing for the Veterinary Visit When you call, have your records ready. The veterinarian will want to know: - How many pigs are affected and in how many pens - When the problem started - What changes you have made recently (diet, feeders, environment, management) - Feed intake data for the affected pens - Mortality data - Any treatments you have already given Take photos and videos of the affected pigs and feeders. The veterinarian can review these before arriving. Collect feed samples if you suspect feed quality issues. Store samples in sealed bags labeled with the date and pen. ### Working with Your Extension Agent Your local cooperative extension agent can help with feed management, facility design, and production systems. Extension agents can provide: - Regional feed intake benchmarks for your genetics and climate - Advice on feeder selection and adjustment - Training for farm staff on feed management - Help with interpreting feed analysis results - Information on new research and technologies Extension agents are not a replacement for your veterinarian. They provide educational and advisory support, not medical diagnosis or treatment. Use both professionals to build a complete support team. ### Developing a Herd Health Plan Work with your veterinarian to develop a written herd health plan that includes feed intake monitoring. The plan should specify: - Normal feed intake ranges for each stage of the nursery phase - Monitoring frequency and methods - Intervention thresholds and protocols - Treatment protocols for common diseases - Vaccination and biosecurity protocols - Emergency contact information Review the plan at least annually and update it based on your farm's performance and changing conditions. A written plan ensures consistency even when staff changes. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### How much feed should a nursery pig eat per day? A nursery pig weaned at 21 days should eat about 0.5 to 1.0 pounds of feed per day in the first week after weaning. This increases to 1.0 to 1.5 pounds in week two, 1.5 to 2.0 pounds in week three, 2.0 to 2.5 pounds in week four, 2.5 to 3.0 pounds in week five, and 3.0 to 3.5 pounds in week six. These are general ranges. Your farm may differ based on weaning age, genetics, diet complexity, and environmental conditions. Track your own data to establish your farm's normal range. ### Why are my nursery pigs not eating enough? Low feed intake in nursery pigs has many possible causes. Check the environment first. Pigs that are too cold or too hot will not eat well. Check the feeder. A feeder that is set too narrow or has a bridged hopper prevents pigs from accessing feed. Check the water. Pigs cannot eat without drinking. Check the diet. A sudden diet change or a less palatable diet will reduce intake. If all of these are normal, suspect disease. Low intake is often the first sign of a health problem. ### How long does it take for nursery pigs to start eating after weaning? Most pigs start eating within 24 hours of weaning, but intake is low in the first few days. Pigs typically lose 1 to 3 percent of their body weight in the first 2 to 3 days after weaning. They should return to their weaning weight within 7 to 10 days. Pigs that have been creep fed before weaning start eating sooner and eat more in the first week. Pigs that have not been creep fed may take longer to adapt. ### What is the best way to measure feed intake in nursery pigs? The most accurate method is to weigh feed before adding it to each feeder and weigh back any feed remaining at the end of the week. This gives you weekly intake data. For daily data, use a feeder scale system if you have one, or estimate feed levels in the feeder using marked intervals. The key is consistency. Measure the same way at the same time each day and record the numbers. ### How do I adjust a [nursery pig feeder](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/nursery-pig-feeding-space-feeder-design)? Start with a feeder gap of 1 to 1.5 inches and adjust based on pig behavior. Watch pigs eating for 5 minutes. If pigs are pushing hard to reach feed, widen the gap slightly. If feed is piling more than 1 inch deep in the trough, narrow the gap. The correct setting has a thin layer of feed covering 50 to 75 percent of the trough bottom. Recheck the setting weekly because pigs grow quickly and their needs change. ### Should I mix old and new feed when changing diet phases? Yes, blend the old and new diets over 3 to 7 days to minimize intake drops and digestive upset. Start with 75 percent old and 25 percent new for 1 to 2 days, then 50/50 for 1 to 2 days, then 25/75 for 1 to 2 days, then 100 percent new. This gradual transition gives the pig's digestive system time to adapt to the new ingredients. ### What are the signs that low feed intake is caused by disease? Low feed intake caused by disease is usually accompanied by other signs. Look for fever, lethargy, rough hair coat, diarrhea, coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and lameness. Pigs with disease may also drink more or less water than normal and may separate themselves from the group. If you see these signs along with low feed intake, contact your veterinarian. ### When should I call a veterinarian about nursery pig feed intake? Call a veterinarian when feed intake drops by more than 20 percent for more than 48 hours, when multiple pens are affected, when pigs show signs of disease beyond low intake, or when mortality increases. Do not wait for pigs to die before seeking help. Early intervention is more effective and less expensive. Have your records ready when you call so the veterinarian can assess the situation quickly. ## Related Farming Guides - [Grow-Finish Pig Feed Intake Monitoring and Troubleshooting](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/grow-finish-pig-feed-intake-monitoring-and-troubleshooting) This section will be populated with related farming guides on nursery pig management, swine nutrition, and pig health topics. Check back for new guides on weaning strategies, feeder management, grow-finish pig nutrition, and common swine diseases. ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Pig Enrichment Programs and Behavior Monitoring](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/pig-enrichment-programs-and-behavior-monitoring) * [Swine Handling Facility Design for Safe Pig Movement](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/swine-handling-facility-design-safe-pig-movement) * [Swine Feeding Management for Grow-Finish Pigs](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/swine-feeding-management-for-grow-finish-pigs) ## References - National Pork Board: https://www.pork.org/ - USDA APHIS Swine Health: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/swine - FAO Pig Production: https://www.fao.org/pig-production-and-products/en/ - FAO Animal Production and Health: https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/ - WOAH (World Organisation for Animal Health): https://www.woah.org/en/home/ > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.