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Blog Articles: • Pet Pig Care: Tear-Staining • Keeping Your Vet Bills Down / Vet Tech Colleges • Health Problems and End-of-Life Issues (pdf opens in new window) • For NAPPA’S List of Zoning Ordinances as of July 2020 (pdf opens in new window) • What it Means to Be a Responsible Pet Pig Owner • Pet Pigs Adopted and Adored to the Family • Behavior of Miniature Pigs • Bio-Security Guidelines • Keeping of Potbellied Pigs • Difference Between Pet Pigs and Farm Pigs • Pet Pigs and Feeding • Horse Feed as Feed for Pet Pigs • General Feeding Guidelines • (more coming soon) Pet Pig Care: Tear-Staining As a pet pig owner, it is important to be aware of potential health issues, such as ,” tear-staining”. Pet pigs – tears contain a pigment called porphyrin, which can cause tears to turn dark in color when exposed to air over time. The tear-staining, called chromodacryorrhea, is commonly seen in all ages from piglets to adult pet pigs. Pigs are able to cry, but their anatomy is generally better than ours and extra tears do not run over onto the face.

What Causes Tear-Staining? - Stress is the major contributor of tear-staining. Stress can result from:

• Changing food too quickly • Being left alone for a period of time • Social group dynamics • Allergens in the air • Underlying medical conditions Tear-staining can also become more common with age, increasing the likelihood of staining in adult pet pigs. If you do not feed your growing pig right you can cause facial de-formalities which can result in more tear-staining. The major disease that can cause tear-staining is called “atrophitis rhinitis” , but this is mainly in commercial pigs and even rare these days.

What can I do? - First, consult your veterinarian to determine if the drainage you are seeing is tear-

staining and not something more serious. To clean off the tear-staining, you can wash the area around

your pet pig’s eyes by gently wiping with a warm cloth as needed.

• Allow your pig to exhibit instrumental behaviors such as wallowing and rooting • Try offering food in a puzzle feeder appropriate for pet pigs • Begin socializing and training your pig at an early age. Early exposure to noises, people, or other animals will prepare your pet pig for a variety of encounters throughout its life • Feed a balanced diet appropriate to the life stage • Offer treats in moderation to keep your pet pig at a healthy body weight and maintain the nutritional balance of the diet You should also continue to visit your veterinarian to keep your pet pig up to date on vaccinations, de- worming, and other routine health measures. While occasional tear-staining is normal, and generally not a cause of concern, increased or prolonged staining can indicate more serious conditions, like an eye infection. Always consult your veterinarian when are unsure about any aspects of your pig’s health.  BACK TO ARTICLE LIST Here Are Some Simple Things You Can Do To Keep Your Vet Bills Down Without Sacrificing The Quality Of Care That A Potbellied Pig Or Miniature Pig Receives

Use a Veterinarian College - Have a veterinary college nearby? Check to see what they charge for their

services. They typically offer a sizable discount over what the local vet clinics and animal hospitals charge

because they have lots of students who need to gain hands-on experience. Your pig will be seen by a

student, but all care will be overseen by an experienced veterinarian.

Ask For Written Prescriptions - Most vets mark up the medications they sell considerably. Insist on a

hard copy prescription that your pig needs, so you can shop around for the best deal. If it’s a medication

that’s also used to treat humans, you may be able to fill it at your local pharmacy. If it’s available in a

generic form, you may even be able to fill it at Walmart for $4.

Of course, free prescriptions are better still, Always ask your vet if they have free samples available before you rush out to fill a prescription. This is a smart move if you’re trying out a new drug that you aren’t sure will agree with your pig.

Take Advantage Of Specials - Many vets offer a new patient discount and/or a multi-pet discount. If

you already have a vet that you’re happy with, find out if they ever run a deal on dental cleaning or other

preventative care services. If they do, be sure to schedule your pig’s visit then.

Many organizations, like the Humane Society, offer vaccination, microchip, spay/neuter events which some will include potbellied pigs throughout the year to ensure low-cost pet care is available to the community. Just show up, and you’ll be able to take advantage of the discounted services. Check with your local organization to find out when the next event is scheduled. If they don’t have anything planned, they may know of other organizations that do.

Consider All Your Options - Listen to the course of action your vet suggests. Then ask what other

options are available. They may have a cheaper option.

Look Into Pet Insurance - Pet insurance can be a good deal, but it’s important to understand what it

covers and what it excludes before you buy. If you decide that your pet pig your vet takes the insurance

that you’re considering. It’s important to find a company they work with. Many insurance companies offer

multi pet discounts, so pet insurance may be a better deal for multi pet households. Nationwide Insurance

has a lot to offer for potbellied pigs.

Maintain Your Pig’s Weight - Make sure your pig get the right amount of food and plenty of exercise. A

pig with a healthy weight is less likely to suffer from arthritis. And dishing out the proper portions also

means less food expense for you. A win-win.

Micro-chip Your Pig - We encourage all pigs to be micro chipped for safety reasons, reuniting with

family and protection, if auctioned off.

Schedule Annual Exams - Take your pig for yearly check-ups, so the vet catches problems before they

turn into something big and expensive. Early detention will save you money and ensure your pig maintains

a good quality of life.

Seek Out Animal Welfare Charities - If your pig requires care that you can’t afford, there are

organizations that may be able to help. The Humane Society maintains a page of animal welfare charities,

The Pet Fund offers vet assistance which has a guideline to follow and other links that also could help with

pet pigs.

Colleges of Veterinarian Medicine - typically offer a sizable discount over vet clinics and animal

hospitals.

Alabama Auburn University College of Veterinarian Medicine (334) 844-4546 www.vetmed.auburn.edu Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine (334) 727-8174 https://www.tuskegee.edu/programs-courses/colleges-schools/cvm Arizona Midwestern University College of Veterinary Medicine (623) 572- 3215 https://www.midwestern.edu/academics/veterinary-medicine/veterinary-medicine-careers University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine (520) 621- 2355 https://vetmed.arizona.edu California Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine (909) 469- 5628 https://www.westernu.edu/veterinary Colorado Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (970) 491-7051 https://vetmedbiosci.colostate.edu Florida University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine (352) 392- 4202 https://www.vetmed.ufl.edu Georgia University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine 706) 542-3000 https://vet.uga.edu Illinois University of Veterinarian Medicine (217) 333- 2760 www.vetmed.illinois.edu Indiana Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine (765) 494-7607 www.vet.purdue.edu Iowa Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine (515) 294- 1242 www.vetmed.iastate.edu Kansas Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine (785) 532-5660 www.vet.ksu.edu Louisiana Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine (225) 578-9900 https://lsu.edu/vetmed Massachusetts Tuft University School of Veterinary Medicine (508) 839- 5302 www.tufts.edu/vet Michigan Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine (517) 355-9793 www.cvm.msu.edu Minnesota University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine (612) 625-5000 www.cvm.umn.edu Mississippi Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine (662) 325-3432 www.cvm.msstate.edu Missouri University of Missouri-Columbia College of Veterinary Medicine (573) 882- 3877 www.cvm.missouri.edu New York Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine (607) 253-3700 www.vet.cornell.edu Long Island University College of Veterinary Medicine (516) 299-3679 https://liu.edu/vetmed North Carolina North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine (919) 513- 6200 https://cvm.ncsu.edu Ohio The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine (614) 292-1171 https://vet.osu.edu Oklahoma Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine (405) 744-6961 https://vetmed.okstate.edu Oregon Oregon State University College of Veterinary Medicine (541) 737- 2098 https://vetmed.oregonstate.edu Pennsylvania University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine (215) 898- 5438 https://www.vet.upenn.edu Tennessee University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine (865) 974- 7262 www.vet.utk.edu Lincoln Memorial University College of Veterinary Medicine (423) 869- 7150 www.lmunet.edu Texas Texas A & M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (979) 845- 5051 https://vetmed.tamu.edu Texas Tech University School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (806) 834- 1291 www.depts.ttu.edu Virginia Virginia Tech Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine (540) 231- 7666 https://vetmed.vt.edu Washington Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine (509) 335- 9515 www.vetmed.wsu.edu Wisconsin University of Wisconsin- Madison School of Veterinary Medicine (608) 263- 6716 www.vetmed.wisc.edu Use a vet in a less expensive area. Vets in smaller towns may charge lower fees. Rescues & Sanctuaries: Mazuri Mini Pig Food is part of Purina family. It is always worthwhile to reach out to a local dealer near you. They are very helpful in ordering any Mazuri diet and can help to serve you. Go to the following link to type in your zip code to find a dealer near you. https://www.purinamills.com/where- to-buy-animal-feed?navid=where-to-buy Mazuri is part of the Purina family, so any Purina certified dealer can order any Mazuri diet for you. They are available at Tractor Company stores. Sometimes they are great at placing personal orders for their customers. Other times, not so much. It depends on the store and how they operate. Otherwise, most local dealers are really great at catering to your specific needs and bulk needs. Some bulk orders are at a discount – just ask the dealer. If any rescue in CA. is in need of blankets or are driving through the state they can reach out to Brad –director of Operation Blankets of Love at (818) 402- 6584. OBLA is a non -profit helping many rescued animals: pigs, dogs and cats with pet beds, large crates, and blankets!

Health Problems and End-of-Life Issues IN GERIATRIC PIGS - PLEASE

CLICK HERE (pdf opens in new window)

ZONING ORDINANCES - FOR NAPPA’S LIST OF ZONING ORDINANCES AS OF JULY 2020, PLEASE CLICK HERE (pdf opens in new window)  BACK TO ARTICLE LIST What It Means To Be A Responsible Pet Pig Owner We encourage you to take it slow once bringing home your new pet pig. Pig owners must fully understand the importance of responsible ownership: • In the first 3 days, your new pet pig will be overwhelmed with their new surroundings. Let them walk up to you as they may be scared and unsure what is going on. • After 3 weeks, your new pet pig will be settling in, feeling more comfortable, and realizing this will be their forever home. They have figured out their environment and have an established routine that you have set. Behavior issues may start showing, this is your time to be a strong leader and show them what is right and wrong. • After 3 months, your pet pig is now completely comfortable in their home. You have built trust and a true bond with your pet pig, which gives them a complete sense of security with you. • Every pet pig is unique and will adjust differently. Give your pet pig space and allow them to go on their own pace.  BACK TO ARTICLE LIST Pet Pigs Adopted and Adored to the Family With potbellied pig ownership surging, it is even more important that our responsible potbellied pig care takes a leadership role to help the many areas of potbellied pig journeys which will engage in the benefit of the potbellied pigs, the families who bring them home and enjoy their companionship. This journey will begin once a pet pig is adopted to a loving family. We will invite other pig organizations to participate such as rescues to assist with their expert advice. Pig rescues will have the knowledge of their potbellied pig from their rescue of the pigs’ personality, etc. Veterinarian care for your pet pig is one of the most important way you as an owner can do for your pig. With educating yourself on proper pig care and health problems by finding answers from trusted, reliable sources of information such as your veterinarian.

Responsible Potbellied Pig Ownership - When choosing to add a potbellied pig to the family,

you may spend more time focusing on the happiness you expect your potbellied pig will bring.

While they can certainly bring happiness, they also come with a set of commitments that

everyone should consider. This is a great time to be reminded about what it means to be a good

potbellied pig parent. While there is no true definition of a responsible pig parent, there are a

few accepted tips to help create a happy, healthy life for your potbellied pig.

Commitment - When adopting your pig, you should commit to caring for them for their entire

life. Potbellied pigs and miniature pigs depend on their humans for their daily care throughout

their entire lives. You should consider your ability to care for a potbellied pig for however long

their lifespan may be. Certainly life hands us things we don’t expect, so you should also consider

who may be able to care for your potbellied pig if circumstances stops you from being able to do

so yourself.

Food and Shelter - Providing your potbellied pig with the basic necessities of life should go

without saying. Your pig will need daily access to clean, fresh water, healthy and nutritious

potbellied pig food, and shelter from the elements. NEVER FEED YOUR POTBELLIED PIG PORK

MEAT OR PORK PRODUCTS.

Healthcare - Regular vet care is key to helping your potbellied pig live a long and healthy life. It’s

best to establish a relationship with a veterinarian to help keep you on track with regular check-

ups. An established relationship with a vet can also be helpful as your potbellied pig ages. Your

vet can help you keep your pig comfortable, pain free, and loved.

Spay and Neuter - Potbellied pig overpopulation is a real issue in our country. Responsible

potbellied pig ownership includes preventing your pig from reproducing by getting them spayed

or neutered. Until every homeless pet pig has a home, there is no reason for any potbellied pig

to reproduce.

Training and Socializing - Behavioral issues are the number one reason why miniature pigs are

surrendered. To rescues, so training and socializing our pet pigs helps making sharing our

homes with them much easier. A potbellied pig who has been trained in basic training knows

what behaviors are accepted. This can help them be more cooperative, comfortable, and

confident in the home environment.

Exercise and Enrichment - Our potbellied pigs need to stay in shape just like we do. Regular

exercise is necessary to keep them healthy. Regular exercise also provides the mental

stimulation that keeps them happy. Pigs long for the attention of their humans.

Love - This may be the most important responsibility of all. Our potbellied pigs are not

possessions we own. They are pets who depends on us for their care. They need our love and

devotion throughout their lives and should be welcomed into our homes as members of the

family. Our potbellied pigs are in tune with us and live for our happiness. Responsible potbellied

pig parents work hard to do the same for them.

 BACK TO ARTICLE LIST Behavior of Miniature Pigs In general, miniature pigs that interact with and receive positive reinforcement from humans during the first two months of life are social and enjoy being with people. They prefer to seek physical contact with people rather than to receive it, and they are more trusting of people who are squatting rather than standing. They do not like to be restrained and will struggle and scream loudly when restraint is attempted. They often shy away from strangers and from people wearing hats or gloves, and they typically express their moods – whether they are happy, angry, or aggressive by wagging their tails. Pigs housed with other pigs usually establish a social hierarchy, with some being dominate and others submissive. Hierarchy in the social structure is generally related to body size and growth rate. Fighting amongst pigs housed together is not uncommon, especially if they are overcrowded or fed together. Like people, they typically have a daily routine. Miniature pigs’ daily routine involves eating, drinking, eliminating, socializing, sleeping, and digging. They are generally more active in the morning and evening and often sleep during the day. Indoor pigs sleep about 50% of the time. Especially during hot weather, pigs tend to be less active during the day and more active at night. Pigs are very intelligent and need environmental enrichment, or they can become bored and destructive. Pigs generally prefer heavy, durable objects to push such as tires, large rocks, bales of hay, large piles of straw, and iron chains. They also like soft, chewy items such as leather and hemp rope. Despite their name, they prefer to play with clean objects over dirty ones. They love foraging for food within toys, a bowling ball stuffed with pig chow makes a great toy for a pet pig. Painted objects that are coated with potentially toxic chemicals, as well as items made from fabric, wood, plastic, soft rubber, or string should be avoided, as they can be easily ingested and cause gastrointestinal obstruction. Rooting is the natural behavior all pigs perform of digging in soil and chewing on grass. Ideally, pigs should be allowed to root outside in untreated grass.

Aggressive Behavior in Pet Pigs - In addition to inter-aggression due to social hierarchy in multi-pig

households, pet pigs can become aggressive in response to changes within a household. Changes could

include in caretaker schedule, introduction of a new pet, and people, and discomfort from illness. Pigs may

become aggressive to particular people, to all men, all women, and they may try to attack even if

unprovoked. If your pig displays this type of behavior, seek out the help of a pig-savvy expert. Patty Hill,

miniature pig trainer, can be reached at pattyrocs@msn.com

 BACK TO ARTICLE LIST Bio-Security Guidelines Bio-security is defined as a set of procedures that are executed to prevent new diseases from entering the premises where a pet pig or pigs are kept and/or housed. There are two basic concepts that affect the safety of pet pigs: • Proactive measures which keep new diseases from being introduced • Reactive measures to take should a disease or suspected disease appear As a pet potbellied pig owner, keeping your pet pig healthy is a top priority. Your pet pig can become sick, or even die, from exposure to just a few unseen bacteria, viruses or parasites. In a single day, these germs can multiply and infect your pet pig. However, you can take measures to keep your pet pig safe from germs by creating and following a bio-security plan. Pet pig owners should have and maintain a good working relationship with a veterinarian who is willing to provide medical care for their pet pig(s). A veterinarian can help advise a pig owner on what precautionary measures should be implemented to keep their pet pig(s) healthy and disease-free. In the event that a pig owner is faced with an unforeseen medical issue or disease, a veterinarian can help the pig owner to follow Bio-Security Guidelines and Checklists. For further information about NAPPA's Bio-Security Guidelines, please visit: https://petpigs.com/education/biosecurity and https://petpigs.com/what-we-can-do/nappa-bio-security-program  BACK TO ARTICLE LIST Keeping of Potbellied Pigs Potbellied pigs (PBP’s) make good companions. Pigs are smart, clean, generally non-allergic, odor-free, flee-free, charming, and inexpensive to feed. Pigs are social and bond easily with humans. They’ll readily roll over for a belly rub, as well as snuggle with you. They don’t bark, prowl the streets, and compared with a dog droppings, mild smelling ‘’pig berries’’ are a breeze to clean up. While pigs are highly trainable and can learn at a faster rate than dogs, pig behavior is vastly different from a dog behavior. As eager as a dog can be to please their master, a pig’s respect, trust and cooperation must be earned. If a pig becomes ill, vet bills can be unmanageable for some people. Universities have qualified potbellied pig veterinarians in every state. With proper care, a potbellied pig can live an average of 12 to 15 + years. Your pig will live long if you make sure he doesn’t become obese, and if you provide him with ample social interaction, stimulation, outdoor time, and physical exercise (going for walks). Pigs become attached to their human families very quickly and are easily depressed when separated. Do your homework first to make sure a pet pig is really right for you and every member of your family. Many sanctuaries have adoption programs to help find the right pig for a person, help with piggy proofing your home, and support you in caring for your pig.

What Are the Zoning Laws Regarding Pigs As Pets? - Each city and county have its own zoning

codes about pet pigs. Many have revised their codes to allow potbellied pigs because miniature

pigs are considered companion animals. Before getting a pig, check with your city, county, and

homeowners’ association to determine the exact code. Get the code in writing!

What Should I Feed My Pig? - Pigs thrive on a diet consisting of grain, vegetables, and an

occasional taste of fruit. Do not feed your pig dog chow or cat chow. It is recommended that you

feed your pig twice a day, allow yard time and include low-fat foods such as carrots, cucumbers,

celery, and leafy greens. Canned veggies, corn, potatoes, dried fruit, cookies, chips, and nuts can

pack the pounds on to your pet pig and are not recommended. Your pig needs access to plenty

of fresh water at all times.

Where Do Pigs Sleep? - Many people provide doghouses or a shed for their pig to sleep in

outside. Indoors they should have their own cozy bed filled with bedding, a large crate, igloo, or

children’s play tent are all good. Of course, pigs will love to sleep on the bed with you. Unless

you don’t mind this being an every night occurrence, don’t get him started.

How Do I Piggy Proof My Home? - As you would do for any pet, make sure that household

cleaning products, insecticides, medicines, lighter fluid, and other toxins are out of reach.

Remove plants that could harm your pig, take potted indoor plants off the floor, and don’t leave

handbags within reach. Pigs love lipstick and chewing gum! If needed, secure your cabinets with

childproof locks. Avoid feeding your pig out of the refrigerator. We recommend that pigs be kept

away from open swimming pools.

Will My Pigs Get Along with Dogs And Cats? - Pigs and cats frequently become fast friends and

bed-mates. Dogs, however, are another story. As tame as your dog may be, keep in mind that

dogs are natural predators of pigs and can turn aggressive on a pig even years after living

together. Don’t leave your pig and dog unattended.

Can A Potbellied Pig Be Housebroken? - Yes! A potbellied pig can be housebroken faster than

most dogs. If you teach your pig good habits from day one, your pig will not have “accidents” in

the house.

What Type of Training Will My Pig Need? - The more you interact and work with your pig the

more bonded you will be to each other and the happier your pig will be. Pigs can easily learn

tricks, such as sit, turn circles, shake hands, roll a ball, retrieve an object, or blowing a horn. Pigs

love to learn, and are capable of learning many behaviors and words, even full sentences. Don’t

forget to reward your pig for good behavior.

Should A Potbellied Pig Be Spayed or Neutered? - Male pigs should be neutered as soon as

possible. Females also should be spayed as soon as possible, preferable before they come into

season. If left un-spayed, females frequently have uterine problems such as tumors and

infections.

Does My Pig Need Vaccinations or De-worming? - Pigs should be yearly examined by your vet.

All pigs should be given, at minimum, an annual dose of Ivermectin, an antiparastical agent that

treats internal as well as external parasites. Yearly vaccines are highly recommended up to at

least the age of five.

What Type of Health Problems Do Pigs Have? - Given proper care, most pet pigs have few

health problems. However, there are several serious problems that occasionally arise. Pigs can

become easily constipated, leading to impacted bowels, a life threatening condition. It is

important that you provide your pig(s) with a high-fiber diet and plenty of fresh water. Male pigs

can also have serious urinary tract problems, which can be costly to repair. Keeping your pig well

hydrated can also prevent these problems. The biggest health problem in potbellied pigs,

unfortunately, is a condition caused by their owner. Obesity is the number one cause of health

complications and death in potbellied pigs. Morbidly obese pigs can become blind from fatty

skin folds that obstruct their vision. Obese pigs will inevitably have crippling joint problems and

sometime have respiratory problems, both conditions leading to immobility and death. Don’t let

your pig get fat!

Do My Pigs’ Hooves and Tusks Need to Be Trimmed? - While neutering a male pig will slow

down the growth of his tusks, tusks will still have to be trimmed from time to time. Female pigs

have very slow-growing tusks that rarely need to be trimmed. Both male and female pigs need

to have their hooves routinely trimmed.

Do Potbellied Pigs Shed? - Yes and no. Pet pigs do not shed the way dogs shed. Most pigs will

“blow’’ their coats once or twice a year. They will lose all of their hair in the summer and it will

reappear by winter.

Keeping a Pet Pig - A pet pig must be taught that they can trust their owner. They have a great

memory and respond well to gentle commands. They are capable of learning to slam dunk a

basketball, play a piano, or golf, play soccer, jump through hoops, dance, ride a skateboard, and

dozens more.

Potbellied pigs average about 125 pounds at 3 years of age. Originally, they were advertised by breeders as being around 50 pounds at maturity. Few people knew the truth of their average weight which lead to sanctuaries, rescues, shelters to be at capacity. Sadly, many owners are dropping their pet pigs off at shelters in their overnight drop off boxes. Pet pigs enjoy eating, which is reflected in the gusto. Placing a boot tray under their food dish will help with easy clean-up.  BACK TO ARTICLE LIST Difference Between Pet Pigs and Farm Pigs

Pet Pigs

• Pet pigs are different from farm pigs by weight comparison pet pigs can weigh up to 150 pounds • Pet pigs: Vietnamese Pig also called Potbellied Pig, Juliani Pig, KuneKune Pig, Miniature Pig • Diet: pet pig food is taxed as it is for dogs and cats • Some owners use their pet pig as their therapy animal in schools, hospitals, and nursing homes they are tested and given a certificate to visit patients and children • Micro chipping: Majority of pet pigs are micro chipped and are urged to have them chipped for safety reasons and protects against entering the food chain, if auctioned off. • Pet pigs are prone to some health problems including: dry, scaly skin, arthritis and lameness, particularly in older pets • Potbellied pigs can suffer from inverted eyelids • Pet pigs are spay/neutered by pet veterinarians at their clinic • Pet pigs have straight tails

Domestic Farm Pigs

• Domestic Farm pigs can weigh from 400 pounds to over 1,000 pounds • Domestic Farm pigs are often found in groups of eight (according to The Merck Veterinarian Manual) • Domestic Farm pigs are not micro chipped due to food safety reasons • Domestic Farm pig breeds include American Yorkshire pigs, Berkshire pigs, Gloucestershire pigs, Hampshire pigs, Heritage breed, Tamworth, Large Black, and Hereford • Domestic Farm pigs have curly tails • Domestic Farm pigs feed is not taxed  BACK TO ARTICLE LIST Pet Pigs and Feeding Pet pigs generally have voracious appetites and will eat nearly anything you offer them. Fruits and fruit juices should be fed less frequently due to their high sugar content. Unfortunately, they are also very prone to obesity which can lead to foot and joint problems, as well as other health issues. Pet pigs need a good quality diet that is high in fiber and low in calories. Ideally, a food formulated specifically for potbellied pigs should be fed. These special diets can be found at some feed stores and pet stores. If the local store doesn’t carry these diets they may be able to order the food in for you or you could also check to see if your veterinarian can order them. In addition to the health problems, they can become very persistent and pesky beggars for foods they shouldn’t have and can even learn to open the refrigerator in search for tasty treats. Thankfully, by learning what a pet pig should eat, feeding proper food, limiting treats, and developing a feeding routine, you can prevent these problems with your pet pig.

Feeding Summary For Pet Pigs

Feed a diet specifically made for potbellied pigs and miniature pigs along with fresh veggies. • Do not feed kitchen waste to your pet pig. • Do not overfeed your pig. • Do not feed cat or dog food. • Avoid feeding fatty foods, particularly animal fats. • Avoid giving high fructose corn syrup - found in ingredients on some juices. • Ensure plenty of fresh water is always available to your pet pig. • Do not give into begging or your pig will likely become a pest and beg constantly. When it’s time for you to eat, put your pet pig in their crate or confine them in a room with an engaging toy to occupy them. Only let them out when you’re finished eating. We recommend that you feed your pet pig outdoors and not from a bowl. Tossing their pig pellets into the yard will help prevent obesity and promote exercise. • Let your pig graze on grass and root in soil. Please be aware of ingredients in fruit juices. If you see high fructose corn syrup listed in ingredients, it is a liquid sweetener made from corn syrup. It’s made by breaking down corn into molecules of glucose (a type of sugar- but sweeter). It can act like a water pill and be aware of frequent accidents after giving these juices to your pet pig.  BACK TO ARTICLE LIST Horse Feed as Feed For Pet Pigs by Dr. John Carr Horse pellets have no reported Vitamin K which is a specific requirement for pet pigs. This can lead to a bleeding syndrome. The pet pig must have access to fresh vegetables and grazing. Horse food is unsuitable for growing pet pigs • There is insufficient protein. • The lysine amount is insufficient for good growth. • The amino acid balance is incorrect thus increasing kidney stress. • The feed contains too much fiber. • Selenium can be toxic and there is too much in horse feed. • Calcium/phosphorous is incorrect which may lead to leg issues. • The diet is short of Vitamin D. • The feed is short of calcium/phosphorous which can lead to foot issues.  BACK TO ARTICLE LIST General Feeding Guidelines for Potbellied Pigs and Miniature Pigs Potbellied pigs and miniature pigs are omnivores, so their natural diet in the wild would include roots, veggies, nuts, seeds, berries, worms, and insects. Of course, we don’t expect that you feed this diet for your pigs, but you can feed them a variety of healthy foods. It’s a good idea to feed pigs larger meals twice a day (breakfast and dinner) and a healthy snack throughout the day.

Overfeeding Your Pet Pig

One of the most common mistakes people make with their pet pig is actually giving them too much food. Pigs are determined to eat and eat, and some people try to please their pigs by feeding them out of guilt especially if they don’t have time to spend with them. Obese pigs can develop many health issues from being overweight, so please be careful not to over feed your pig, even though it is tempting.

Recommended Foods For Pet Pigs

Pet pigs do best on a vegetarian diet consisting mostly of vegetables. Giving a head of cut-up romaine lettuce along with a cup of veggies, plus watered-down pig pellets made specifically for potbellied pigs or miniature pigs. A good amount of pig pellets is ¾ to one cup twice a day, depending on how many snacks your pig gets and the weight and age of your pig. When feeding your pig, vary the veggies so your pig doesn’t get bored with their meals and also get a variety of nutrients. Recommended veggies include lima beans, green beans, sweet potatoes, peas, peppers and zucchini. Be careful about salt content in foods you feed your pig, since a diet high in salt can cause bladder stones and other urinary problems. Canned and frozen vegetables are convenient, but they often have added salt, so check the ingredients list on the packaging. Fruit can be offered as treats on occasion, but only once in a while because of the high sugar content.

You will also want to avoid feeding your pig:

• Pork meat and products. Keeping them healthy is not giving your pig any pork meat or products. • Hog or swine feed. If you buy your pellets at a feed store, make sure you get pellets made especially for potbellied pigs, not farm pigs. • Dog and cat food. Foods made for dogs and cats are too high in protein for miniature pigs and potbellied pigs. • Processed human food. Foods such as cereal and crackers can cause dental issues and often contain high amounts of salt and sugar. • Citrus - limit citrus fruits because too much Vitamin C can cause bladder stones, especially in male potbellied pigs.

Issues Of Obesity In Miniature Or Potbellied Pigs

It is not natural for pigs to be fat. If they were living in the wild, potbellied pigs or miniature pigs would be continuously foraging, roaming, and rooting with finding something to eat. All that exercise would prevent them from becoming obese and they would only be eating healthy foods. Obesity can cause discomfort, lack of energy, digestive problems, issues with the hooves and leg complications. Potbellied pigs and miniature pig’s legs were not designed to carry excess weight, so an obese potbellied pig or miniature pig can suffer damage to the tendons, ligaments and joint of the legs. Fractures to the bones can also occur. Such damage can cause permanent problems, such as arthritis, even after the weight loss. A pig who becomes obese can also suffer from “mechanical blindness”, which is caused by fat surrounding the eye and obscuring the pig’s vision. There are degrees of mechanical blindness, depending on how obese the pig is. Vision is not a pig’s strongest sense. Removing fat surrounding the eyes is recommended by surgery.

Ways To Help Your Pet Pig Lose Weight

Pigs vary in size, so there’s no correct weight for all pet pigs. A potbellied pig or miniature pig who is at a healthy weight has a bit of a swayback and a bit of a belly, and the body of your pig curves inward before their back legs. Consult with your vet if you have concerns about your pig’s weight. Step one in helping your obese pig return to a normal weight is to make vegetable salads for each meal. Romaine is a good lettuce to use because it has nutrients your pig needs. Pigs who have been given junk foods probably won’t eat salads right away. To entice a pig to eat all of their vegetables, try cutting up the lettuce as small as possible and coating the salad with canned pumpkin, applesauce, a small amount of unsalted peanut butter or a bit of yogurt. Don’t use an excessive amount of these foods, just enough to make the salad more eatable for your pig. After a week or so, reduce the amount of coating, after two weeks, try eliminating the coating and see if your pig will still eat their salad. Please be patient with your pet pig as they adjust to this healthy diet, and keep in mind that it’s extremely important for your pig to lose weight gradually. With providing a balanced, low-fat diet, along with appropriate exercise, so your pig can lose weight the healthy way. When feeding your pig, vary the vegetables so your pig doesn’t get bored with their meals. More Articles Coming Soon - Keep Checking Back

Blog

Blog Articles: • Pet Pig Care: Tear-Staining • Keeping Your Vet Bills Down / Vet Tech Colleges • Health Problems and End-of-Life Issues (pdf opens in new window) • For NAPPA’S List of Zoning Ordinances as of July 2020 (pdf opens in new window) • What it Means to Be a Responsible Pet Pig Owner • Pet Pigs Adopted and Adored to the Family • Behavior of Miniature Pigs • Bio-Security Guidelines • Keeping of Potbellied Pigs • Difference Between Pet Pigs and Farm Pigs • Pet Pigs and Feeding • Horse Feed as Feed for Pet Pigs • General Feeding Guidelines • (more coming soon) Pet Pig Care: Tear-Staining As a pet pig owner, it is important to be aware of potential health issues, such as ,” tear- staining”. Pet pigs – tears contain a pigment called porphyrin, which can cause tears to turn dark in color when exposed to air over time. The tear-staining, called chromodacryorrhea, is commonly seen in all ages from piglets to adult pet pigs. Pigs are able to cry, but their anatomy is generally better than ours and extra tears do not run over onto the face.

What Causes Tear-Staining? - Stress is the

major contributor of tear-staining. Stress can

result from:

What can I do? - First, consult your

veterinarian to determine if the drainage you

are seeing is tear-staining and not something

more serious. To clean off the tear-staining,

you can wash the area around your pet pig’s

eyes by gently wiping with a warm cloth as

needed.

• Allow your pig to exhibit instrumental behaviors such as wallowing and rooting • Try offering food in a puzzle feeder appropriate for pet pigs • Begin socializing and training your pig at an early age. Early exposure to noises, people, or other animals will prepare your pet pig for a variety of encounters throughout its life • Feed a balanced diet appropriate to the life stage • Offer treats in moderation to keep your pet pig at a healthy body weight and maintain the nutritional balance of the diet You should also continue to visit your veterinarian to keep your pet pig up to date on vaccinations, de-worming, and other routine health measures. While occasional tear-staining is normal, and generally not a cause of concern, increased or prolonged staining can indicate more serious conditions, like an eye infection. Always consult your veterinarian when are unsure about any aspects of your pig’s health.  BACK TO ARTICLE LIST Here Are Some Simple Things You Can Do To Keep Your Vet Bills Down Without Sacrificing The Quality Of Care That A Potbellied Pig Or Miniature Pig Receives

Use a Veterinarian College - Have a

veterinary college nearby? Check to see what

they charge for their services. They typically

offer a sizable discount over what the local vet

clinics and animal hospitals charge because

they have lots of students who need to gain

hands-on experience. Your pig will be seen by a

student, but all care will be overseen by an

experienced veterinarian.

Ask For Written Prescriptions - Most vets

mark up the medications they sell considerably.

Insist on a hard copy prescription that your pig

needs, so you can shop around for the best

deal. If it’s a medication that’s also used to treat

humans, you may be able to fill it at your local

pharmacy. If it’s available in a generic form, you

may even be able to fill it at Walmart for $4.

Take Advantage Of Specials - Many vets

offer a new patient discount and/or a multi-pet

discount. If you already have a vet that you’re

happy with, find out if they ever run a deal on

dental cleaning or other preventative care

services. If they do, be sure to schedule your

pig’s visit then.

Consider All Your Options - Listen to the

course of action your vet suggests. Then ask

what other options are available. They may

have a cheaper option.

Look Into Pet Insurance - Pet insurance

can be a good deal, but it’s important to

understand what it covers and what it excludes

before you buy. If you decide that your pet pig

your vet takes the insurance that you’re

considering. It’s important to find a company

they work with. Many insurance companies

offer multi pet discounts, so pet insurance may

be a better deal for multi pet households.

Nationwide Insurance has a lot to offer for

potbellied pigs.

Maintain Your Pig’s Weight - Make sure

your pig get the right amount of food and

plenty of exercise. A pig with a healthy weight is

less likely to suffer from arthritis. And dishing

out the proper portions also means less food

expense for you. A win-win.

Micro-chip Your Pig - We encourage all pigs

to be micro chipped for safety reasons,

reuniting with family and protection, if

auctioned off.

Schedule Annual Exams - Take your pig for

yearly check-ups, so the vet catches problems

before they turn into something big and

expensive. Early detention will save you money

and ensure your pig maintains a good quality of

life.

Seek Out Animal Welfare Charities - If

your pig requires care that you can’t afford,

there are organizations that may be able to

help. The Humane Society maintains a page of

animal welfare charities, The Pet Fund offers

vet assistance which has a guideline to follow

and other links that also could help with pet

pigs.

Colleges of Veterinarian Medicine -

typically offer a sizable discount over vet clinics

and animal hospitals.

Alabama Auburn University College of Veterinarian Medicine (334) 844-4546 www.vetmed.auburn.edu Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine (334) 727-8174 https://www.tuskegee.edu/programs- courses/colleges-schools/cvm Arizona Midwestern University College of Veterinary Medicine (623) 572- 3215 https://www.midwestern.edu/academics/veteri nary-medicine/veterinary-medicine-careers University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine (520) 621- 2355 https://vetmed.arizona.edu California Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine (909) 469- 5628 https://www.westernu.edu/veterinary Colorado Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (970) 491-7051 https://vetmedbiosci.colostate.edu Florida University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine (352) 392- 4202 https://www.vetmed.ufl.edu Georgia University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine 706) 542-3000 https://vet.uga.edu Illinois University of Veterinarian Medicine (217) 333- 2760 www.vetmed.illinois.edu Indiana Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine (765) 494-7607 www.vet.purdue.edu Iowa Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine (515) 294- 1242 www.vetmed.iastate.edu Kansas Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine (785) 532-5660 www.vet.ksu.edu Louisiana Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine (225) 578-9900 https://lsu.edu/vetmed Massachusetts Tuft University School of Veterinary Medicine (508) 839- 5302 www.tufts.edu/vet Michigan Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine (517) 355-9793 www.cvm.msu.edu Minnesota University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine (612) 625-5000 www.cvm.umn.edu Mississippi Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine (662) 325-3432 www.cvm.msstate.edu Missouri University of Missouri-Columbia College of Veterinary Medicine (573) 882- 3877 www.cvm.missouri.edu New York Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine (607) 253-3700 www.vet.cornell.edu Long Island University College of Veterinary Medicine (516) 299-3679 https://liu.edu/vetmed North Carolina North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine (919) 513- 6200 https://cvm.ncsu.edu Ohio The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine (614) 292-1171 https://vet.osu.edu Oklahoma Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine (405) 744-6961 https://vetmed.okstate.edu Oregon Oregon State University College of Veterinary Medicine (541) 737- 2098 https://vetmed.oregonstate.edu Pennsylvania University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine (215) 898- 5438 https://www.vet.upenn.edu Tennessee University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine (865) 974- 7262 www.vet.utk.edu Lincoln Memorial University College of Veterinary Medicine (423) 869- 7150 www.lmunet.edu Texas Texas A & M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (979) 845- 5051 https://vetmed.tamu.edu Texas Tech University School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (806) 834- 1291 www.depts.ttu.edu Virginia Virginia Tech Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine (540) 231- 7666 https://vetmed.vt.edu Washington Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine (509) 335- 9515 www.vetmed.wsu.edu Wisconsin University of Wisconsin- Madison School of Veterinary Medicine (608) 263- 6716 www.vetmed.wisc.edu Use a vet in a less expensive area. Vets in smaller towns may charge lower fees. Rescues & Sanctuaries: Mazuri Mini Pig Food is part of Purina family. It is always worthwhile to reach out to a local dealer near you. They are very helpful in ordering any Mazuri diet and can help to serve you. Go to the following link to type in your zip code to find a dealer near you. https://www.purinamills.com/where-to-buy- animal-feed?navid=where-to-buy Mazuri is part of the Purina family, so any Purina certified dealer can order any Mazuri diet for you. They are available at Tractor Company stores. Sometimes they are great at placing personal orders for their customers. Other times, not so much. It depends on the store and how they operate. Otherwise, most local dealers are really great at catering to your specific needs and bulk needs. Some bulk orders are at a discount – just ask the dealer. If any rescue in CA. is in need of blankets or are driving through the state they can reach out to Brad –director of Operation Blankets of Love at (818) 402- 6584. OBLA is a non -profit helping many rescued animals: pigs, dogs and cats with pet beds, large crates, and blankets!

Health Problems and End-

of-Life Issues IN GERIATRIC

PIGS - PLEASE CLICK HERE (pdf

opens in new window)

Responsible Potbellied Pig Ownership -

When choosing to add a potbellied pig to

the family, you may spend more time

focusing on the happiness you expect your

potbellied pig will bring. While they can

certainly bring happiness, they also come

with a set of commitments that everyone

should consider. This is a great time to be

reminded about what it means to be a

good potbellied pig parent. While there is

no true definition of a responsible pig

parent, there are a few accepted tips to

help create a happy, healthy life for your

potbellied pig.

Commitment - When adopting your pig,

you should commit to caring for them for

their entire life. Potbellied pigs and

miniature pigs depend on their humans

for their daily care throughout their entire

lives. You should consider your ability to

care for a potbellied pig for however long

their lifespan may be. Certainly life hands

us things we don’t expect, so you should

also consider who may be able to care for

your potbellied pig if circumstances stops

you from being able to do so yourself.

Food and Shelter - Providing your

potbellied pig with the basic necessities of

life should go without saying. Your pig will

need daily access to clean, fresh water,

healthy and nutritious potbellied pig food,

and shelter from the elements. NEVER

FEED YOUR POTBELLIED PIG PORK MEAT

OR PORK PRODUCTS.

Healthcare - Regular vet care is key to

helping your potbellied pig live a long and

healthy life. It’s best to establish a

relationship with a veterinarian to help

keep you on track with regular check-ups.

An established relationship with a vet can

also be helpful as your potbellied pig ages.

Your vet can help you keep your pig

comfortable, pain free, and loved.

Spay and Neuter - Potbellied pig

overpopulation is a real issue in our

country. Responsible potbellied pig

ownership includes preventing your pig

from reproducing by getting them spayed

or neutered. Until every homeless pet pig

has a home, there is no reason for any

potbellied pig to reproduce.

Training and Socializing - Behavioral

issues are the number one reason why

miniature pigs are surrendered. To

rescues, so training and socializing our pet

pigs helps making sharing our homes with

them much easier. A potbellied pig who

has been trained in basic training knows

what behaviors are accepted. This can help

them be more cooperative, comfortable,

and confident in the home environment.

Exercise and Enrichment - Our potbellied

pigs need to stay in shape just like we do.

Regular exercise is necessary to keep them

healthy. Regular exercise also provides the

mental stimulation that keeps them happy.

Pigs long for the attention of their humans.

Love - This may be the most important

responsibility of all. Our potbellied pigs are

not possessions we own. They are pets

who depends on us for their care. They

need our love and devotion throughout

their lives and should be welcomed into

our homes as members of the family. Our

potbellied pigs are in tune with us and live

for our happiness. Responsible potbellied

pig parents work hard to do the same for

them.

Aggressive Behavior in Pet Pigs - In

addition to inter-aggression due to social

hierarchy in multi-pig households, pet pigs can

become aggressive in response to changes

within a household. Changes could include in

caretaker schedule, introduction of a new pet,

and people, and discomfort from illness. Pigs

may become aggressive to particular people, to

all men, all women, and they may try to attack

even if unprovoked. If your pig displays this

type of behavior, seek out the help of a pig-

savvy expert. Patty Hill, miniature pig trainer,

can be reached at pattyrocs@msn.com

 BACK TO ARTICLE LIST Bio-Security Guidelines Bio-security is defined as a set of procedures that are executed to prevent new diseases from entering the premises where a pet pig or pigs are kept and/or housed. There are two basic concepts that affect the safety of pet pigs: • Proactive measures which keep new diseases from being introduced • Reactive measures to take should a disease or suspected disease appear As a pet potbellied pig owner, keeping your pet pig healthy is a top priority. Your pet pig can become sick, or even die, from exposure to just a few unseen bacteria, viruses or parasites. In a single day, these germs can multiply and infect your pet pig. However, you can take measures to keep your pet pig safe from germs by creating and following a bio-security plan. Pet pig owners should have and maintain a good working relationship with a veterinarian who is willing to provide medical care for their pet pig(s). A veterinarian can help advise a pig owner on what precautionary measures should be implemented to keep their pet pig(s) healthy and disease-free. In the event that a pig owner is faced with an unforeseen medical issue or disease, a veterinarian can help the pig owner to follow Bio- Security Guidelines and Checklists. For further information about NAPPA's Bio- Security Guidelines, please visit: https://petpigs.com/education/biosecurity and https://petpigs.com/what-we-can- do/nappa-bio-security-program  BACK TO ARTICLE LIST Keeping of Potbellied Pigs Potbellied pigs (PBP’s) make good companions. Pigs are smart, clean, generally non-allergic, odor-free, flee-free, charming, and inexpensive to feed. Pigs are social and bond easily with humans. They’ll readily roll over for a belly rub, as well as snuggle with you. They don’t bark, prowl the streets, and compared with a dog droppings, mild smelling ‘’pig berries’’ are a breeze to clean up. While pigs are highly trainable and can learn at a faster rate than dogs, pig behavior is vastly different from a dog behavior. As eager as a dog can be to please their master, a pig’s respect, trust and cooperation must be earned. If a pig becomes ill, vet bills can be unmanageable for some people. Universities have qualified potbellied pig veterinarians in every state. With proper care, a potbellied pig can live an average of 12 to 15 + years. Your pig will live long if you make sure he doesn’t become obese, and if you provide him with ample social interaction, stimulation, outdoor time, and physical exercise (going for walks). Pigs become attached to their human families very quickly and are easily depressed when separated. Do your homework first to make sure a pet pig is really right for you and every member of your family. Many sanctuaries have adoption programs to help find the right pig for a person, help with piggy proofing your home, and support you in caring for your pig.

What Are the Zoning Laws Regarding

Pigs As Pets? - Each city and county have

its own zoning codes about pet pigs. Many

have revised their codes to allow

potbellied pigs because miniature pigs are

considered companion animals. Before

getting a pig, check with your city, county,

and homeowners’ association to

determine the exact code. Get the code in

writing!

What Should I Feed My Pig? - Pigs thrive

on a diet consisting of grain, vegetables,

and an occasional taste of fruit. Do not

feed your pig dog chow or cat chow. It is

recommended that you feed your pig twice

a day, allow yard time and include low-fat

foods such as carrots, cucumbers, celery,

and leafy greens. Canned veggies, corn,

potatoes, dried fruit, cookies, chips, and

nuts can pack the pounds on to your pet

pig and are not recommended. Your pig

needs access to plenty of fresh water at all

times.

Where Do Pigs Sleep? - Many people

provide doghouses or a shed for their pig

to sleep in outside. Indoors they should

have their own cozy bed filled with

bedding, a large crate, igloo, or children’s

play tent are all good. Of course, pigs will

love to sleep on the bed with you. Unless

you don’t mind this being an every night

occurrence, don’t get him started.

How Do I Piggy Proof My Home? - As you

would do for any pet, make sure that

household cleaning products, insecticides,

medicines, lighter fluid, and other toxins

are out of reach. Remove plants that could

harm your pig, take potted indoor plants

off the floor, and don’t leave handbags

within reach. Pigs love lipstick and chewing

gum! If needed, secure your cabinets with

childproof locks. Avoid feeding your pig

out of the refrigerator. We recommend

that pigs be kept away from open

swimming pools.

Will My Pigs Get Along with Dogs And

Cats? - Pigs and cats frequently become

fast friends and bed-mates. Dogs,

however, are another story. As tame as

your dog may be, keep in mind that dogs

are natural predators of pigs and can turn

aggressive on a pig even years after living

together. Don’t leave your pig and dog

unattended.

Can A Potbellied Pig Be Housebroken? -

Yes! A potbellied pig can be housebroken

faster than most dogs. If you teach your

pig good habits from day one, your pig will

not have “accidents” in the house.

What Type of Training Will My Pig Need?

- The more you interact and work with

your pig the more bonded you will be to

each other and the happier your pig will

be. Pigs can easily learn tricks, such as sit,

turn circles, shake hands, roll a ball,

retrieve an object, or blowing a horn. Pigs

love to learn, and are capable of learning

many behaviors and words, even full

sentences. Don’t forget to reward your pig

for good behavior.

Should A Potbellied Pig Be Spayed or

Neutered? - Male pigs should be neutered

as soon as possible. Females also should

be spayed as soon as possible, preferable

before they come into season. If left un-

spayed, females frequently have uterine

problems such as tumors and infections.

Does My Pig Need Vaccinations or De-

worming? - Pigs should be yearly

examined by your vet. All pigs should be

given, at minimum, an annual dose of

Ivermectin, an antiparastical agent that

treats internal as well as external

parasites. Yearly vaccines are highly

recommended up to at least the age of

five.

What Type of Health Problems Do Pigs

Have? - Given proper care, most pet pigs

have few health problems. However, there

are several serious problems that

occasionally arise. Pigs can become easily

constipated, leading to impacted bowels, a

life threatening condition. It is important

that you provide your pig(s) with a high-

fiber diet and plenty of fresh water. Male

pigs can also have serious urinary tract

problems, which can be costly to repair.

Keeping your pig well hydrated can also

prevent these problems. The biggest

health problem in potbellied pigs,

unfortunately, is a condition caused by

their owner. Obesity is the number one

cause of health complications and death in

potbellied pigs. Morbidly obese pigs can

become blind from fatty skin folds that

obstruct their vision. Obese pigs will

inevitably have crippling joint problems

and sometime have respiratory problems,

both conditions leading to immobility and

death. Don’t let your pig get fat!

Do My Pigs’ Hooves and Tusks Need to

Be Trimmed? - While neutering a male pig

will slow down the growth of his tusks,

tusks will still have to be trimmed from

time to time. Female pigs have very slow-

growing tusks that rarely need to be

trimmed. Both male and female pigs need

to have their hooves routinely trimmed.

Do Potbellied Pigs Shed? - Yes and no. Pet

pigs do not shed the way dogs shed. Most

pigs will “blow’’ their coats once or twice a

year. They will lose all of their hair in the

summer and it will reappear by winter.

Keeping a Pet Pig - A pet pig must be

taught that they can trust their owner.

They have a great memory and respond

well to gentle commands. They are capable

of learning to slam dunk a basketball, play

a piano, or golf, play soccer, jump through

hoops, dance, ride a skateboard, and

dozens more.

Pet Pigs

Domestic Farm Pigs

Feeding Summary For Pet Pigs

Overfeeding Your Pet Pig

Recommended Foods For Pet Pigs

You will also want to avoid feeding your

pig:

Issues Of Obesity In Miniature Or

Potbellied Pigs

Ways To Help Your Pet Pig Lose Weight