What clinical signs can result from finely ground feed in pigs?

When pigs are fed finely ground feed, one of the significant risks is the development of gastric ulcers. This occurs because finely ground feed can create a more acidic environment in the stomach, which can lead to irritation and erosion of the stomach lining. Pigs that consume a finely ground diet are at greater risk of experiencing digestive issues, as the fine particles can lead to inappropriate feeding behaviors and rapid fermentation in the gastrointestinal tract.

Additionally, the smaller particle size can affect the digestive process by causing an imbalance in gut microflora, further predisposing the animal to gastric ulcers. Therefore, the clinical signs often associated with this condition include discomfort, reduced feed intake, and ultimately, weight loss or failure to gain weight, which further emphasizes the detrimental impact of finely ground feed on gastrointestinal health.

In contrast, weight gain is not a clinical sign associated with the consumption of finely ground feed; typically, the opposite occurs due to the stress and health issues that arise from gastric ulcers. The presence of excess hair and respiratory distress are unrelated to the effects of finely ground feed in pigs and stem from different underlying issues. Hence, the identification of gastric ulcers as a result of finely ground feed highlights the importance of feeding practices that promote optimal gastrointestinal health in pigs.