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Pot Bellied Pigs
General Care

Pot bellied pigs should be fed twice a day. The main element in a pig’s diet is the mini pig pellets that are low in protein. The suggested protein content of the pellets should be around 12%, but not higher than 14%.  Feeding a low protein diet to barrows (neutered males) is an essential component which aids in the prevention of urinary calculi. Pigs are also prone to salt toxicity so stay away from foods high in salt. Have plenty of fresh water available at all times. Lack of water plays a big part in both salt toxicity and urinary calculi.

We give small amounts of fruit as occasional treats. Some common foods to avoid feeding: corn because of the high sugar content and potatoes/yams because they’re high in calories and starch.  Also, give your pig a children’s complete chewable vitamin daily. Remember to use caution when establishing the diet and observe any changes in behaviors.

The old saying “sweat like a pig” is inaccurate because pigs do not have sweat glands. We recommend a mud wallow and / or a very shallow pool for your pig to cool off. Rolling in the mud provides many benefits for pigs; it cools them off, helps prevent insect bites and aids in preventing sunburn. White pigs are very prone to sunburn so use sunscreen on them, we recommend SPF 50. Pigs require a shade structure / shelter to get out of the elements.

We recommend you spay or neuter your pig. They will make better pets and live healthier lives. Boars (un-neutered males) will romance anything or anyone they come in contact with and can be quite aggressive. This behavior ceases in the barrow (neutered male).  Boars are also prone to testicular cancer whereas barrows are less likely to develop it.  An un-spayed female will have a heat cycle every month starting at about three months old. A gilt (female that has not produced a litter of babies) and /or a sow (female that has had a litter) can be ornery when they are cycling. An un-spayed female is also prone to uterine tumors.   

Annual vaccinations are recommended. Please consult your veterinarian. Most dog and cat veterinarians do not treat pigs so it’s very important to find a vet that does prior to needing one. Also, check their hooves periodically and trim as needed.

More facts to know:
· Pigs are reputed to be the fourth smartest animal.
· Pigs are herd animals. We suggest owning at least two pigs whenever possible.
· “Rooting” around is natural behavior and pigs require time outside to fulfill this need; they can be trained to root in a certain area.
· They can be housebroken, trained to use a dog door and come when called.

Pigs have great personalities and make great pets in the right setting. Please bear in mind they are a seven day a week twenty four hour a day responsibility. Pot bellied pigs have an average life span of 15 years. 

Normal Values for Pot Bellied Pigs
Rectal Temperature: 99 - 102 degrees
Respiration: 20 - 30 breaths per minute
Heart Rate / Pulse: 70 - 100  beats per minute

Formula for Estimating Pot Bellied Pig Weight
girth x girth x length
400
**Measure length from the top of the head, between the ears, down the back until you reach the top of the tail.