| Non-pregnant sows were fed approximately 1x the maintenance energy requirement (MEm) or 2x MEm. Half of the daily ration was offered in 16, ½-hourly meals followed by the remaining half in a single meal. Sows fed 1x MEm had greater heat production (HP) than energy intake. Sows fed 2x MEm had greater (P<0.05) HP than sows fed 1x MEm and gained weight. The respiratory quotient (RQ) of sows fed 2x MEm indicated lipogenesis. Calculated ME m (506 kJ/BW0.75) was greater than current recommendations. Sows had equally elevated HP on a 24 h basis when consuming either frequent small meals or a large meal.The HP and RQ were measured on days 30, 45, and 105 of gestation in sows fed according to current recommendations and indicated excess energy was stored on day 45 by lipogenesis and energy intake was above requirement on days 30 and 45, but below requirement on day 105. |
