Reproductive and Growth Physiology of Sows and Piglets on Dietary Selenium (Se) Supplementation

Abstract

This study determined the effect of dietary selenium (Se) supplementation on the reproductive performance of sows and preweaning growth performance of their piglets. Twelve cross bred (Landrace × Large White) gestating sows were randomly assigned to four groups (G) according to the levels of dietary selenium supplementation. Group 0 (G₀) sows were fed basal diet without Se supplementation throughout gestation whereas sows in other groups received 0.30 mgSe/kg in feed at 2^nd  trimester (G₁) and 3^rd trimester (G₂) and then during lactation (G₃). Selenium supplementation had no effect (P>0.05) on sow body weight during gestation and lactation, respectively. Litter size at birth was not different (P>0.05) between groups. Litter size was higher (P<0.05) at weaning when sows diet was supplemented with Se at 3^rd trimester and during lactation. The piglet growth rate and weaning weight were higher (P<0.05) in Se supplemented groups especially in G₂ and G₃ sows. The supplementation of breeding sows diet with 0.30 mgSe/kg at 3^rd trimester of gestation and during lactation phase improved litter size at weaning, piglet growth rate and weaning weight.