In pig farming, timing is everything. Sell too early, and you lose profits. Wait too long, and you waste feed and space. So, how do you know it’s time to take your pig to market? Whether you’re a new or experienced farmer, understanding pig market readiness signs in Kenya is key to making smart, profitable decisions.
At Mkulima Jovial, we help Kenyan farmers grow smarter—not harder. Let’s break down the signs to watch for so you don’t miss the perfect selling window.
1. Ideal Body Weight
This is one of the clearest signs your pig is market-ready.
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For porkers (raised for meat), the ideal live weight is around 80–100 kg
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For baconers, the range is 100–120 kg
✅ If you don’t have a weighing scale, use a weigh band or observe if the pig is broad, full-bodied, and well-rounded across the back and hams.
2. Age of the Pig
In Kenya, most fast-growing breeds (like Large White or Landrace crosses) are ready for slaughter between 5 to 6 months of age, if fed well.
⚠️ If your pigs are 7–8 months and not yet full size, check your feeding program or consult a vet.
3. Feed Conversion Efficiency Drops
When pigs stop gaining much weight despite eating a lot, it means they’ve reached their growth peak.
✅ This is the stage where the cost of feeding starts to outweigh weight gain—an important pig market readiness sign in Kenya.
4. Behavioral Changes
Market-ready pigs tend to show signs of maturity, such as:
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Becoming more aggressive
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Showing dominance (especially boars)
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Restlessness or reduced interest in feed
These signs, especially in fattening units, can indicate that the pig is ready to go.
5. Physical Appearance
A pig ready for the market should:
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Have a full belly, thick legs, and a rounded back
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Be alert and active
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Have smooth skin with no disease or wounds
✅ Buyers and slaughterhouses prefer pigs that look healthy and clean.
6. Demand and Market Prices Are Favorable
Sometimes, even if your pig is not at full weight, it might make sense to sell if:
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Prices are high due to low supply
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You need to create space for the next batch
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Feed prices have gone up
📌 Stay informed on market trends in your area—timing can make a big difference.
How to Prepare a Pig for the Market
Once you’ve confirmed the pig market readiness signs in Kenya, do the following:
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Withhold feed for 12 hours before transport (but give water)
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Clean the pig if possible to avoid transport penalties
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Have documents if required (especially in large sales)
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Arrange safe transport to avoid injury or stress
Why It Matters
Selling pigs at the right time ensures:
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Maximum weight and profit
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Less feed wastage
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Healthier pigs (older pigs are more prone to disease)
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Smooth farm operations (you make space for new stock)
Mkulima Jovial Is Here to Help
Whether you’re looking to grow faster or smarter, we offer:
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Weighing bands and feeding equipment
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Growth supplements and mineral blocks
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Record books to track pig weight and cost
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Expert tips for marketing your pigs profitably
From your first piglet to your first ton of pork—we’re with you every step of the way.