Biotin Deficiency Syndrome in Pigs Fed Desiccated Egg White

Abstract

A biotin deficiency was produced in the pig by feeding 30 percent of desiccated egg white in the ration. The deficiency symptoms included alopecia, spasticity of the hind legs, cracks in the feet and a dermatosis of the skin characterized by dryness, roughness and a brownish exudate. This syndrome was prevented by intramuscular injection of 100 micrograms of biotin per pig per day. A biotin deficiency in the pig resulted in 50 percent more feed being required per pound of gain and a decrease of 45 percent in rate of daily gain. Copyright © . .