Feeding Sows in Lactation

The MealMeter works as part of a complete system in lactation. Inserted into the Lactation Boot, the MealMeter is latched into a stud for easy installation and removal. The Lactation Boot can either hold a drop feed line or the PigEasy Feed Hopper, depending on the current feeding system.

People often ask, “How do you adjust the feed flow?” You don’t, for a number of reasons.

The PigEasy System in Lactation was developed so that each sow has the ability to “self-regulate” her eating area. With the Lactation Water Pipe and Button Nipple in the PigEasy Sow Feeder, the sow cleans up the dispensed feed with every drink. The PigEasy Sow Feeder has a focused eating area so feed cannot build up in corners.

By providing each sow the freedom to consume feed ad lib while at the same time having the water in the bowl to serve as a “regulator”, sows optimize intake without feed and water waste. This low-tech option is the answer to daily feeding headaches in the farrowing barn.

There are many possibilities to utilize the MealMeter in lactation and we can help you figure out how to best modify your existing crate and feed system.

To obtain best results, we suggest using the PigEasy Sow Feeder for the bowl. The Sow Feeder has a punch out on either side for the Lactation Boot so either side works in relation to what way the door swings. We can either work to fit the Sow Feeder into your existing head gate or the PigEasy Head Gate from our Farrowing Crate design can be modified to fit right on your existing frame.

However, the MealMeter system can be retrofitted into most existing feeders. This requires the Lactation Boot, MealMeter, and Lactation Water Pipe. The Water Pipe is critical to the success of this system and we will walk through the best way to install all parts on your existing feeders.

Every project is different and we take the time to make sure everything installs easily and will be ready to boost feed intake while eliminating waste in your operation.