POT BELLY PIGS

What is a Miniature Potbellied Pig?
The potbellied pig originated in the Orient centuries ago; thus it is often referred to as the “Yuppie House Pet.” They are a unique breed of their own and are not bred from the familiar American farm pig. The Chinese house pig, the Vietnamese potbellied pig, and the miniature potbellied pig are all names referring to the same breed. Potbellied pigs were introduced into the United States in 1985, and have captured the interest and hearts of millions.


Potbellied pigs have short wrinkled noses, perky little ears, sway backs, straight tails (that wag like dogs’ tails), and, of course, pot bellies.

At the present time, research has indicated that these little animals, with proper care, can live approximately fifteen years. Potbellied pigs are docile, easy going and have virtually no body odor. Their intelligence has been compared to the dolphins and primates, thus making them one of the most intelligent house pets known.

The miniature potbellied pig is truly a remarkable animal and a remarkable pet. They prefer a clean environment, will not scratch your furniture, and are not prone to getting fleas or ticks. Because potbellied pigs do not shed like a dog or a cat, they are the perfect pet for anyone who suffers from common pet allergies.

The miniature potbellied pig is an exceptionally intelligent pet for those of you who can give love and attention to a gentle and loyal companion.

How to Keep Your Potbellied Pig Healthy
In the past several years, the mini’pig has become an increasingly popular companion animal. This is due to its relative intelligence and strong human bonding characteristics. This surge in ownership has led to many problems, including legal battles, human/pig conflicts, and general lack of health care knowledge among owners and veterinarians alike.

Feeding
Many factors affect the physical health of your mini–pig; however, one of the most common mistakes is overfeeding, thus over’conditioning of minipigs. This is probably due to the concept we have entertained since childhood of a fat rounded pig who will eat anything. But remember the fate of that pig.

Healthy body condition does not include a pendoulous belly and fluctuant jowels. Ribs should not be visible, but should be easily felt. Jowels should not obscure the jaw and fat rolls on the face should be absent.

Obesity predisposes tendon determinates in the legs, poor foot wear and entropion which may progress to mechanical blindness. Obesity also puts your pet into a bad surgical risk category should emergency surgery be necessary, not to mention long–term head problems and other organ failures.

How much to feed depends on your pig’s condition and activity level and must be adjusted as needed; there is no formula. Diet should consist of a commercial balanced and formulated mini–pig food, grazing time, and small fruit and vegetable treats. Dog and cat food are too rich in protein and calories and are not balanced for pigs. Fruits have sugar in them and these tend to increase weight gain. Many owners supplement vitamins. This is usually unnecessary if the pigs are on a commercial diet and rarely causes a serious problem. Consult your veterinarian concerning your pig’s condition and diet.

Environment
Proper environment is also important in maintaining health. Another common problem is irregular foot wear and lack of exercise leading to dropped pasterns. As was said earlier, weight is a contributor to this problem. Foot trimming has become necessary in companion pigs due to the surface they live on. Carpets, hardwood floors, grass and linoleum do not wear feet enough to keep up with nail growth. Allowing the nail to become long shifts weight back on to the padded heel and stretches the flexor tendons over time, which in turn causes less exercise and an acceleration of this condition. This can be avoided by keeping weight off your pet and exercising on a granular surface such as concrete. If this is not possible, frequent trimming will be necessary.