Influence of the “Ventar D” feed additive on survival and productivity of the fattening piglets

Purpose. To investigate the influence of starter feed with “Ventar D” feed additive on growth rates, feed conversion and percentage of survival of piglets in the fattening stage. Methods. In the course of the scientific research, general scientific and special methods: zootechnical (experiment design, assessment of the nutritional value of feed), technological, laboratory and chemical analyses in accordance with generally accepted methods, as well as statistical and analytical methods of data processing were used. The experiment was conducted using the method of similar groups. Variational statistical analysis of the results allowed identifying the reliability of the differences between the groups. Results. During the experiment, the main diet fully provided the piglets with nutrients in accordance with the recommendations of the genetic company RIS. The total nutritional value of 1 kg of feed was 3276.8 Kcal, and the crude protein content was 179.2 g. According to the results of the study, it was found that the introduction of the “Ventar D” supplement into the starter feed composition has a positive effect on the productivity of piglets. The average daily gains in animals of the experimental groups exceeded the control indicator (593.4 g) by 13.04% (670.8 g) and 16.73% (692.6 g), respectively. Live weight at the end of the experiment in the second group was higher by 2.8 kg (8.2%), and in the third – by 3.5 kg (10.2%) compared to the control. The survival of piglets in the experimental groups reached 100%, which is 3.13% higher than the similar indicator in the control group. Conclusions. The inclusion of the feed additive “Ventar D” in the doses of 0.3 and 0.4 kg per ton of feed in the starter feed has a positive effect on the growth indicators of piglets during the fattening period, contributes to the increase in average daily gains, the survival of the livestock, strengthening immunity and reducing the need for the use of veterinary drugs.