Stilbestrol, Effect of Subcutaneous Implantation on Growing-Fattening Swine

Abstract

Stilbestrol, implanted as a pellet subcutaneously, did not consistently stimulate gains of growing-fattening pigs as with beef cattle and lambs. The non-treated controls required from 5.2 to 13.7% more feed per hundred pounds gain than did the treated pigs. Treatment of gilts with the levels used is not to be recommended because of prolapse of the uterus as a result of the stilbestrol. Stilbestrol treatment caused teat development in both sexes, a mild nymphomaniac response and extreme swelling of external genitalia of gilts, and in barrows, a restored ability for erection and renewed sex desire. Subcutaneous implantation in the ear is not to be recommended because of greater chance for encapsulation or cyst formation around the pellet in that area.