EN
Most of the strategies developed to reduce weaning diarrhea and to improve the health and performance of pigs are targeted at the post-weaning period and concern modifications of feed composition and/or supplementation with a variety of feed additives. Studies on the physiology of gastrointestinal tract development, however, clearly demonstrated a conflict between the immaturity of the gut mucosa and early weaning. A kidney bean lectin preparation (Suilectin™, Biolek, Poland) was designed to speed up the maturation of the pig gastrointestinal mucosa before weaning. The aim of the present study was to examine the effectiveness of Suilectin™ under practical conditions. The study was performed in a single farm on the total of 3575 piglets, some of which orally received a single dose of Suilectin™ when they were 10-12 d of age (3.27 ± 0.04 kg body weight, BW). Piglets were weaned when they were 25-26 d of life. Their body weight, food intake, clinical health, and veterinary costs were calculated. Suilectin™-treated pigs were characterized by a higher BW at weaning, a lower incidence of post-weaning diarrhea, lower costs of veterinary treatment, and lower mortality as compared to control.