During the hot season, heatstroke prevention and cooling measures become crucial for maintaining pig health. High temperatures can weaken pigs' immune systems, making them more susceptible to diseases. Therefore, farmers must implement effective cooling strategies to avoid economic losses caused by heat stress.
1. **Enhance Thermal Insulation**: Many traditional pighouses are constructed with clay bricks and earth or asbestos tiles, which offer little insulation. Most rural pighouses are open, making temperature control difficult. To improve insulation, farmers can place a thick layer of straw or wheat stalks on the roof, creating a shaded area above the open space. Planting climbing plants like loofah, gourds, or grapes around the house helps reduce heat absorption. Additionally, planting broad-leaved trees nearby improves the microclimate. Applying fresh lime wash on the walls can also reduce solar radiation and provide disinfection benefits.
2. **Improve Ventilation and Cooling**: The location of the farm should be in an open, well-ventilated area. The height of the pighouse should be at least 3 meters. The design should allow for staggered placement of front and back walls to promote airflow. The orientation of the house should minimize direct sunlight exposure. During hot weather, all ventilation openings (such as windows, skylights, and exhaust fans) should be opened to remove foul gases and create a cooler environment. Installing fans or electric fans on the walls can further enhance air circulation and provide better cooling.
3. **Water Cooling Methods**: Common methods include misting, water spraying, and dripping cooling. Since the Jinbao fermentation bed is dry, it's not affected by moisture. However, if the house becomes too hot and dust affects pig activity, a light misting can help cool them down. Professional farms can choose the most suitable method based on their conditions, while ensuring the pigs remain healthy and the fermentation bed functions properly.
4. **Strengthen Feeding Management**: Reducing stocking density helps pigs dissipate heat more effectively and lowers the overall heat load in the house. Keeping the pighouse clean and disinfected regularly prevents disease outbreaks. Feeding should be done during cooler hours, avoiding the hottest part of the day. Pigs should be given saltwater (0.5%) daily, along with plenty of fresh, juicy feed and cool, clean water in the troughs.
5. **Heatstroke Prevention Medication**: Adding heat-relief medications such as "Heat Jieshu" or "Shengjinzhike" to feed or drinking water can help prevent heatstroke. For example, boiling plantain and feeding the decoction, mung beans into porridge, white lentils as a tea, or mixing watermelon rind with sugar and serving it can all help. Adding vinegar or sauerkraut juice to the feed also provides additional protection.
By implementing these strategies, farmers can ensure their pigs stay healthy and comfortable during the summer, leading to better productivity and economic returns.
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