Number of pigs per pen with equal space per pig

Abstract

Groups of 6, 12, or 24 pigs averaging 37 pounds each were assigned to pens where each pig had 3.85 square feet of floor space for a 4-week feeding period. Pigs in groups of 12 gained significantly slower and showed a much higher incidence of tail-biting than groups of 6 or 24. Feed efficiency was similar for all groups. In groups of 12 three pigs per feeder space gave the same results as six pigs per feeder space.