[ Objective] To study the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid （GABA） on performance of lactating sows during heat stress. [ Metbod] A total of 14 sows at the same parity and with close expected date of childbirth and similar body we：,ght were randomly divided into control group and experimental group. They were fed a common basal diet and a GABA （300 mg/kg） supplementary diet, respectively. The trial lasted for 21 d. [ Result ] The daily feed intake, lactation yield and average daily gain of piglets in the experimental group were increased by 9.4%, 28.5% and 10.7%, respectively. The backfat of lactating sows was decreased less, and the same with the weaning-oestrus interval. The survival ratio of piglets was increased by 4.5%. Compared with the control group, the content of lactose and fat increased significantly, but other components almost did not change. [Conclusien] Supplementing GABA in diet can improve the performance of lactating sows and promote the growth of piglets effectively.
ZHANG Ming CHEN Li-xlang FAN Zhi-yong WU Ying-song
