The relationship between body condition score and backfat in gestating sows (2001)

Authors

M G. Young
Michael D. Tokach
Robert D. Goodband
Jim L. Nelssen
Steven S. Dritz

Keywords

Swine day, 2001; Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station contribution; no. 02-132-S; Report of progress (Kansas State University. Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service); 880; Swine; Sows; Backfat; Body condition score

Abstract

Backfat and body condition score were measured on 731 sows in a commercial swine facility to assess the accuracy of feeding sows in gestation based on body condition score. Body condition score was poorly correlated (r2 = 0.19) with backfat thickness. For example, sows assessed with a body condition of 3 ranged in backfat from 0.3 to 0.9 in. (7.5 to 23 mm). This illustrates the need to find a more objective method of measuring body condition (such as ultrasound) in order to properly adjust feeding levels and thus reduce variation in backfat of sows.; Swine Day, Manhattan, KS, November 15, 2001

Recommended Citation

Young, M G.; Tokach, Michael D.; Goodband, Robert D.; Nelssen, Jim L.; and Dritz, Steven S. (2001) "The relationship between body condition score and backfat in gestating sows (2001)," Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station Research Reports: Vol. 0: Iss. 10. https://doi.org/10.4148/2378-5977.6706