Piglet Feeding Bowls: The First Feed Place in the Farrowing Pen

Piglet Feeding Bowls: Feed Early, Wean Safely

Piglets that already know solid feed at weaning come through the change a good deal more calmly. That is exactly what the piglet feeding bowl is for. It sits flat on the floor, gives several animals room at once and turns eating into a group activity, because piglets learn from one another. Here you will find bowls in stainless steel and plastic as well as models with a hopper for larger amounts.

Designs and material

The Mini-Piglet feeding bowl at 24 centimetres across offers five feeding places and so is sized for a whole litter. The Rotecna Easy Pan is made specifically for the farrowing pen and lifts out easily for rinsing. Where more volume is called for, the Mini Hopper Pan at 6 litres and the Maxi Hopper PAN at 9 litres work with a hopper that lets feed drop down by itself. The 2 litre stainless steel bowl with a clamp hook sits firmly and is practically indestructible, while the chew-resistant plastic bowl at 2.5 litres is lighter and quick to move. The Maxi Pan feeding bowl at 9 litres covers larger groups.

Positioning, filling and keeping clean

Put the bowl away from the lying area and not directly under the heat source, otherwise the feed dries out and gets dirty. A clamp hook or a firm fixing stops the piglets tipping it over. Start from the seventh to tenth day of life with very small amounts and put fresh feed down several times a day rather than filling it once. Leftovers come out before they turn. For larger groups in the rearing house there is the TR-5 feed hopper at 120 litres with a wall bracket, extension module and lid, which can stay filled over several days.

Frequently asked questions

When do I put the bowl in the pen?
The seventh to tenth day of life is usual. To begin with, a handful of prestarter is enough for the piglets to get to know the feed. You only increase the amount once you can see that it is actually being eaten.

Stainless steel or plastic?
Stainless steel lasts practically forever, can be cleaned hot and keeps its shape even under heavy chewing. Plastic is lighter, cheaper and quick to move. For the farrowing pen both versions work well.

How often does the bowl need cleaning?
Daily. Damp leftover feed spoils quickly and piglets avoid a dirty bowl. Take the remains out, rinse briefly, let it dry and only then fill it again.