After six months on feed trials we have finally worked out where the problem lies with fatty pigs… Its the genetic trait that makes the pig lay down fat from the age of 28 weeks.
In general the rare breeds can reach a target carcase weight of 70kg or 92kg live-weight at an age of 26-28 wks. They will consume on average 250kg of 16% protein, grower ration from 6 weeks to killing. I introduce the grower ration at 6 weeks, then wean 2 weeks later. This method means that the only variable in diet at weaning will be the removal of milk. So the weaners growth curve flat lines for a couple of weeks as oppose to dipping. This method will actually help fatten your grower pigs 2 weeks earlier… By reducing the growing period by 2 weeks, you reduce the risk of the pig laying on fat not muscle growth. Generally most rare breeds will stop growing muscle at 28 wks. So I found that it was hugely important to reduce the dip in growth when weaning occurred. By maximizing growth in the first 28 wks you can have a leaner but heavier killing pig… Hope this helps?