25th March 2025

How Piglet Boozt helps increase water intake in post-weaning piglets

Water plays a pivotal role in the growth and performance of post-weaning piglets. Proper hydration is essential for maintaining optimal feed intake, which directly impacts their overall well-being. ‘A good intake of water results in a higher feed intake and better overall well-being,’ says Kristian Juul Volshøj, Technical Application Manager at AB Neo in Denmark. ‘Farmers are very keen to know how to make sure piglets drink plenty of water because it directly impacts their performance.’

Why hydration matters during the weaning transition

Ensuring piglets drink enough water is especially critical after weaning, as this is a stressful transition that can lead to reduced feed intake. Water supports digestion, helps maintain body temperature, and plays a key role in nutrient absorption. Without sufficient hydration, piglets may struggle to adapt, making it harder for them to thrive in the early post-weaning phase. Since piglets do not always drink enough on their own, encouraging water intake can be an important factor in supporting their development.

Exploring the impact of Piglet Boozt on water intake

To explore whether a water additive could influence water consumption, we have conducted a farm study in Denmark using Piglet Boozt. Piglet Boozt is designed to support the iron intake of piglets from pre-weaning through post-weaning stages, and can be added either to water or to supplementary milk via our Pump'n'Grow^TM milk cup system, making it an easy and effective way to enhance intake.

‘Our study aimed to investigate the potential effect of adding Piglet Boozt to the drinking water,’ says Kristian. ‘Piglet Boozt is highly palatable, and so we wanted to find out if it would result in the piglets drinking more water.’

During the two-week trial, a single weaning group of 555 Danbred piglets was divided into two groups, ensuring an equal range of sizes on each side. One group received water without any additive, while the other was given Piglet Boozt, administered via a dosage pump for the water line. This group received a dose of three litres per 1,000 litres of water for the first 11 days, then half that dosage for a further three days.

Water intake was measured throughout the study. Both groups received the standard quantity of feed, according to typical practice. “The results showed that water intake increased by 10% in the Piglet Boozt group,” explains Kristian. “Piglets in this group consumed an average of 23.1 litres of water, compared to 21.1 litres in the control group. This indicates that Piglet Boozt may encourage piglets to drink more water during this critical period.”

This trial builds on our previous research into the role of iron supplementation in piglet performance. Our trial snapshot ‘Evaluating the Impact of Iron on Piglet Performance’ explores how Piglet Boozt supports iron intake from pre-weaning to post-weaning, influencing key factors such as feed intake and overall piglet development. By improving both iron and water intake, Piglet Boozt offers a valuable tool for farmers looking to optimise piglet performance during this crucial growth stage.

Practical tips to encourage water intake

Here are some practical steps you can take to ensure piglets stay hydrated:

Ensure clean and accessible water – regularly check drinkers for blockages, leaks, and contamination to keep water fresh and appealing
Monitor water flow rates – we recommend a flow rate of 450 ml/minute for drinkers or bowls to ensure piglets have an adequate water supply for proper hydration
Use palatable additives – adding a product like Piglet Boozt can encourage piglets to drink more due to its appealing taste
Provide enough drinkers – we recommend a maximum of 10 piglets per drinker to ensure each piglet has access to water, minimising competition and promoting proper hydration
Observe drinking behaviour – regular monitoring can help identify early signs of reduced water intake, allowing for quick adjustments