What Does Iron Do for Pigs

Iron is essential for optimal health and growth of pigs. Adequate levels of iron are needed to produce haemoglobin and myoglobin – proteins that enable red blood cells to carry oxygen around the body. Adequate levels of iron are also required to produce essential proteins and enzymes.

Why is iron important in pigs?

Iron plays an important role in health and disease for piglets. Iron is a vital component of the haemoglobin in the erythrocyte (red blood cell) that is the carrier of oxygen in the blood to the tissues. In the farrowing pen, a piglet needs iron for building of tissue and blood.

Why do piglets need an iron supplement?

Why Pigs Need Iron Supplements Baby pigs are born with a smaller store of iron than most young animals. Their supply of iron will sustain hemoglobin production for only three to four days if an outside source of iron isn’t provided. … Sow’s milk is an extremely poor source of iron, so supplementation is critical.