Calcium Requirement of the Baby Pig

Studies were made with 40 baby pigs in two trials to determine their calcium requirement. Using a synthetic milk diet, the phosphorus level was maintained at 0.5%, and calcium concentration varied from zero to 1.6% of dietary solids with USP grade CaCO3 supplying the calcium. A dietary calcium level of 0.4% appeared adequate to effect normal growth, feed utilization, blood clotting time, and electrocardiograms. In one trial 0.8% of dietary calcium was necessary to support normal levels of serum calcium, phosphorus and alkaline phosphatase. Levels of serum phosphorus and alkaline phosphatase were inversely related to dietary and serum calcium levels. Optimal skeletal development, as measured by bone density, ash content, breaking strength and the absence of rachitic symptoms, occurred in pigs consuming 1.0% of calcium. Maximal calcium retention occurred at this dietary level also. Calcium content of kidneys, heart and liver was directly related to calcium intake. Under the conditions prevailing in this study it is concluded that the minimal calcium requirement of the baby pig lies between 0.8 and 1.0%.