Visceral organ growth in pigs from birth through 150 kg bodyweight

Visceral organs (VO) are essential for their role in the metabolism and distribution of consumed nutrients as well as other life functions in animals. Two experiments were conducted to assess the natural longitudinal changes that the VO undergo from birth through 150 kg body weight (BW). Results showed that both absolute and relative measurements (weight, volume, and length) of VO were dependent on the BW (age) of the pig. Methods Data was collected by serial slaughter of pigs. Data were then analyzed based on the age and bodyweight of the pigs.