Advantages of electronic feeding of small groups of sows over gestation pen pen feeding

Sow small group feeding mode
The sow small group feeding mode refers to dividing pregnant sows into small groups for feeding. Each small group typically consists of 15-25 sows, which are placed in a relatively large space with sufficient freedom to move, move, and socialize. In this mode, sows can freely eat and rest, better meeting their behavioral and physiological needs.  

Provides a more natural environment: the small group housing model for sows provides a living environment that is closer to a natural state, allowing sows to exhibit social behaviors and the need to move around, reducing the stress and discomfort caused by confinement.
Improved animal welfare: Sows are able to walk freely, interact with each other and have more options to fulfill their needs. This helps to reduce stress and improve the quality of life and welfare of the sows.
Reduced coercive behavior: In a small group housing model, there is relatively less competition and aggression between sows, which helps to reduce coercive behavior and improve animal health.
Gestation pen feeding mode
The gestation pen feeding mode is to place pregnant sows in a limited feeding space, with each sow fixed in a separate pen. This model reduces resource competition and aggressive behavior by limiting the range of activities of sows.
Restricting movement and socializing: The limited pen feeding mode limits the range of movement and social skills of sows, which may cause stress and abnormal behavior.
Increased coercive behavior and pressure: Due to spatial limitations, there may be more competition and aggressive behavior among sows, increasing their stress and pressure.
Conclusion:
Sow small group and confinement pen feeding models have their own advantages and disadvantages. The sow small group feeding model provides a more natural and suitable environment and improves animal welfare, but requires more space and disease prevention and control. Restricted pen rearing mode, on the other hand, is easier to manage and observe and improves feed utilization, but restricts the sows' mobility and socialization and may increase coercive behavior and stress. When choosing a feeding mode, livestock farmers should consider the situation and the viability and economics of the farm.