Gruel feeding is a management practice that targets the bottom 10 percent to 20 percent of small-for-age piglets in any weaning group, regardless of weaning age. In general, research and commercial experiences have indicated that gruel feeding offers four distinct advantages when done correctly:
- Enhances ingestion of nutrients, especially during the early days post-weaning
- Allows a smoother transition to dry feed, especially when the feed is pelleted
- Prevents damage of the gut due to soybeans or prolonged starvation
- Promotes hydration, an extra and very significant benefit, particularly in sick piglets
Source: Watt AgNet, November 28, 2016. (partial access only)
Gruel feeding needs to be done according to high(er) standards of hygiene. The article continues with a 10-step guideline for efficient and practical gruel feeding.