Growing craze of mini pigs Mini piglet craze has been growing from the ending of the 1980s. When it was seen in Paris Hilton’s hands in 1985, people became really interested to know about the cute little pet and started searching about them. At present, there are many different pig breeds available for mini versions to be kept at home. The different versions of pigs to be kept at home are available for adoption or purchase. There are mini versions of potbelly pigs having characteristics that attract people to make them a part of their home. These are easy to deal with pets having an intelligent outlook with the most loving outlook for every person at home. The average lifespan of a pig is around 20 years which means that they will be with their owner for a long period of time. There are many associations linked with teacup pigs that follow the guidelines and general instructions to keep them home. These pets are very social and easily trainable. Hence, many fur-allergic people are preferring them instead of dogs or cats. Pot-bellied pigs are gaining popularity due to their witty nature. Color variations There are many color tones in which the pigs are available with the breeders. Apart from basic black or brown tones, the pigs have patches on the skin which are quite appealing. The baby pigs are pinkish in color but as they grow, the color and patterns become visible on the body. White pigs have been developed with selective breeding patterns but the pure white color is something very exclusive. Most of the white pigs have brown or grey tinges on their skin. They have a spectacular outlook that appeals the pet lovers. The size of the pigs is unclear until they become mature. It might sound odd but pigs grow up to the size of a medium dog and if they cross that limit, the ultimate growth might become unpredictable. The breeders under associations mention these facts well and have specifications mentioned for the new owners. There are many mini-pig breeds having variable names and quite popular among the people. Teacup piglets’ trends are spreading throughout the US and these loving animals are gaining popularity by becoming a favorite of many celebs. It could be a great step to check the state zoning laws before getting the pig home. These pets are good for keeping in apartments, small homes or even bungalows. There is no restriction for pigs but they need their personal space in the form of a blanket bedding to feel cozy. A safe and secure environment for your mini pig can keep them happy and they would keep you happy with their interesting activities. The unattended or frustrated pig can be dangerous for humans. These are social creatures and can’t live well without being pampered or trained. People are surprised to find out the aggression issues in the pigs but it happens only by neglecting them. Hence, you need to make sure that they are properly handled and well-managed to avoid any issues later on.
What should you know before keeping a teacup pig? Mini pigs are the affectionate pets that you can keep at home with all the love. These animals are furless and this might be a cleaner reason to keep them as your best companion. Miniature pigs or teacup pigs are small-sized pigs having a bodyweight equal to a mid-sized dog. These animals are highly social and witty that you’ll make them learn different things soon. They have funny moods and can be trained well. Most of the pigs are sold by the breeders at a decent price and you could get one for companionship. Training the pig Pigs are popular pets as they can be trained very easily. You can litter train the pigs and they usually don’t spoil the house. So, the people looking for cleaner houses can think about keeping a pig as their pet. These animals would understand your commands after a few days of being with you. They won’t create any fusses in learning but you need to be very calm and kind in teaching them routine activities. You can keep a balanced diet for them and they will be glad to make the different food items as a part of their schedule. The pigs will have a fixed time for potty and you need to make sure that you follow the right ways to train them to go to their litter box or your fixed spot for them to poo. Trusted friends for years Pigs will be emotionally attached to you and this would be the number one point to keep them. Make sure that you train you the pig in the right way and don’t become dominant in handling them. You can display your loving gestures to which they will certainly respond. Pigs usually have a lifespan of 15-20 years. They are the long-lived pets having a great attachment to their masters. You will share many years in the company of this lovely pet and hence, it is required to make them as your family members to share a perfect bond with them. Be careful while purchasing You need to be very careful to buy teacup pigs. There are many breeders who might give you the wrong micro pig for the reason of getting more bucks. You will never want a pig with a hefty outlook as it will be too bulky to handle. Hence, it is important to search for a reputed breeder and check the pig parents before making the purchase. If a breeder gives a heavy discount on selling the teacup pig, make sure that you’re taking the right pet. Pigs need to be purchased from a well-known source to avoid any issues later on. Get the cuddly mini pigs as they will make the funny pigs for your home. They will mix up with all the family members and even go well with one owner. Make up your mind by consulting a reputed breeder and think about owning the cutest piggy pet.
Skin Care of Teacup Pigs The skin of pigs is generally dry by default because of the absence of pores and sweat glands on their bodies. This makes it important for the owner to take a lot of care of their pet’s skin which is more prone to various skin infections. The owner must make sure the pig’s skin stays clean and hydrated. A pig’s diet plays an important role in keeping their skin healthy. Following nutrients must be well included in their diet, such that none of the deficiencies become a reason for skin issues. In some cases, even supplements are required for skin healthiness. Following are the essential vitamins and minerals for the pigs required to maintain the well-being of their skin: Vitamin D3 Sunlight helps the body produce vitamin D3 which is necessary for the skin. Indoor, the pigs are not accessible to enough sunlight so one can give Vitamin D3 supplements of=r make sure the pig gets to go out and be in sunlight for about half an hour or 15 minutes as per the condition of the skin. A healthy skin might only be satisfied with sunlight while supplements may be required for less healthy skin. Vitamin E and Selenium These are the most important supplements that are otherwise also wanted in a pig’s body. Their deficiency can not only harm the skin but also cause other fatal ailments. Therefore, every owner must make sure to include these in the form of capsules or as per the prescription of a vet in the diet of their mini pig. Vitamin B Complex (especially biotin) Vitamin B complex (biotin being most important) along with other trace vitamins and minerals are quite significant when it comes to a pig’s skin. They must be well present in their diet or given otherwise. These are present in the commercial pig food and have also been formulated for horses and can be safely used for pigs as well. Dietary Fat Dietary fat keeps the hair skin and hooves nourished and healthy. It can be given in the form of animal fat which is easily available at grocery or departmental stores. Coconut oil is also good and serves the same purpose only that dietary fat is more effective. If the pig has more rough skin, then animal fat is preferred over coconut oil. Regular Diet A pig’s regular diet must be well balanced with the inclusion of all nutrients, vitamins, and minerals as per their requirement in the body. It must consist of wholesome green leafy vegetables and natural food or pig pellets available commercially. All these keep the metabolism active and are good for the skin as well. Apart from these, a pig must consume the plenty amount of water to stay hydrated so that the skin stays fresh. It must take a regular bath to avoid insect or parasitic infections. General dryness can be treated by the application of coconut oil or aloe vera gel which works well for the skin of a pig. A good owner must know all this so that the skin of the pig, which easily catches infections, stays healthy and hydrated.
Obesity in Teacup Pigs The most common problem that a teacup pig owner might have to combat with is obesity. Teacup pigs generally have a tendency to grow obese and then this problem needs to be solved because it is an invitation to various other health issues as well. One must keep a fixed diet routine and avoid this problem at all costs because once a pig becomes obese, it is difficult to make it lose weight. However, if the pig becomes obese, then it is necessary that the pig must be made to lose weight soon so that its health does not deteriorate. The height of a pig cannot be controlled but its weight can definitely be managed. Why do pigs become obese? Owners generally make the mistake of over-feeding their pigs. A pig must have a regular eating routine and must be fed accordingly. Feeding any time does not make sense. There should be a proper schedule of how many meals to be given to the pig. The pig must not be fed at any time it asks for food and must be given treats only when required. Once the pet becomes habitual to daily treats, they become habitual. The treats must be given to the pets only on special occasions. How to recognize that a pig is obese? The forehead of a pig is usually clear and without any rolls. Once fat rolls become visible, it shows that the pig is overweight. In normal condition, the ears of a pig rest on the top of a pig’s head but when it becomes overweight, the ears come sideways instead of resting on the top. This condition can also lead to loss of hearing in the pear. They find it difficult to get up after they sit or lie down. This may also develop into arthritis. Vision loss, hearing loss, and breathing difficulties are symptoms of obesity. How to make a pig lose the extra weight it has gained? Older pigs cannot be made to exercise vigorously as their activeness decreases to a great extent after they mature. On becoming obese, they also start experiencing mobility issues which makes them weak. One can help the pigs lose weight by making them eat fewer calories so that it does not contribute to more fat. Arthritis is a problem that follows obesity. Therefore, to avoid diseases, a pig must be made to lose weight. Also, the pig can be made to do exercise in hidden form like making it find its food. Pigs have good smelling power and instead of feeding it directly, it can be made to hunt for its food. Also, one must replace fatty foods with more healthy and nutritious foods so that it at least does not gain more weight. A daily walk is a very good exercise that is not too tiring and along with that helps in burning the fat too. Obesity is an issue that needs to be tackled with the utmost care and attention so that the health of the pig does not deteriorate further. One must do all that one can to make the pig lose weight and the pig may become fit and fine again.
How to Treat Constipation in Teacup Pigs? Constipation is a problem that is quite common in the case of teacup pigs. It must be cured as soon as it is detected. This is a small issue but if one does not take care of it at the time, it can become serious as well. One can always consult a veterinary doctor and there are also several home remedies that treat this problem. Uncured constipation can lead to diarrhea and other digestion related serious problems. When the pig is too young, i.e. less than three months in age, it should be immediately taken to the veterinary doctor. Also, if the pig does not vomit and does not eat food, then one must carefully look at the problem the pig is facing. What to do at home? Give the pig canned pumpkin. It is one of the best remedies that work effectively against constipation. It must be regularly given to avoid constipation and in constipation, its amount should be increased to relieve the pig. Water must be given in large quantities. Juices like those of apple, cranberry or prune can be mixed in small quantities with water. Dry food should also be mixed in water and then only given. Gatorade mixed with water can also be given in equal quantities. Even the commercial pig food can be given to the pig Lubricating foods such as animal fat and mineral oil help in greasing the digestive tract and the stool can pass out easily. However, these must be given in small quantities so that it only acts as a lubricant and does not contribute to fat. Stool softening medicines are easily available in medical stores and these soften the hardened stool and it passes out with ease without causing pain to the pig. Increase the physical activity of the pig because its mobility will help the stool to come out. They must walk and exercise. Also, this must be the daily routine of a pig so that the digestion of the pig remains intact. Epsom salt (Magnesium sulfate) is an active ingredient that works against constipation well. It is a laxative that can cause dehydration and must be given in a very appropriate amount so that it soothes the given problem and does not create a new issue. Mostly, laxatives are used for the purpose of constipation relief but too much of these are not good for a pig’s health and can lead to diarrhea. One must know that what actual amount of a laxative has to be fed to a pig so that it gets relieved from constipation and has a smooth passage of the stool. If any of these does not work well, then the vet must be consulted well within time. Constipation is the most common internal problem faced by pigs and it must be cured completely and as soon as possible. Ignorance of this can cause diarrhea and other serious problems. In many cases, natural and home remedies work efficiently but if they do not, then a vet must be referred.
Supplements Required in a Pig’s Diet Some pigs are very healthy while some pigs are such that they need more care and attention. Some supplements are required in a pig’s daily diet to ensure that there are no deficiencies in its body. There are certain vitamins and minerals that are not as it is present in the diet of a pig. Mentioned below are the various supplements that are required in a pig’s diet: Vitamin E This vitamin is quite a lot essential for a pig because its absence can cause serious and fatal problems. The diet should definitely have an adequate amount of vitamin E. this can be given in capsule form that must be prescribed by a veterinary doctor. Even though Vitamin E is present externally in commercial pig diet but that is not sufficient so it has to be given additionally as a supplement. Selenium Along with Vitamin E, selenium also has a very important role to play and both these nutrients work together to keep the pig in a good health condition. This can be given in syrup or capsule for weekly as per the dosage prescribed because a very little amount of selenium is required by the body. Any excess of this mineral can be harmful to the pig. Flaxseeds, sunflower seeds, brown rice, barley, broccoli, whole grains, nuts, seeds, spinach and cabbage are the foods that are rich in selenium and fine for a pig’s health. Yucca Root Yucca root is an important part of the diet but is required in a very reasonable amount. A large amount of this supplement can damage the health of a pig. It is very useful as it relieves pain, helps digestion, reduces the odor from feces, can be used in shampoos to soothe skin problems and is also anti-inflammatory. It has in it the benefits of calcium, manganese, beta-carotene, magnesium, niacin, Vitamin B, Vitamin C, iron, phosphorus, etc. Its dosage should be carefully monitored and given in less quantity. Multivitamin This is not a very important supplement unless the pig is weak or has some genuine deficiencies. Pigs can take children prescribed multivitamins without any harm. Owners must try to make the food enriched with everything but giving multivitamins is also always an option. Coconut Oil Coconut oil is very good for human skin and so it is for a pig’s skin. It can be applied to dry skin and wounds and can also be put in the food for consumption on a regular basis. Coconut oil boosts the immune system and is anti-viral and anti-bacterial as well. It keeps the skin and hair of the pig healthy. All these supplements are good for a pig’s health in one way or the other. One must not let the pig become deficient in any of these. Similarly, fish oil is also beneficial for its health just like coconut oil and young pigs require iron to be given externally until they mature. Such supplements improve the pig’s health and reduce the risk of major diseases.
Natural Remedies for Common Teacup Pig Problems Natural remedies have always had an upper hand in treating many disorders when it comes to having an effective treatment without any side effects. In the case of teacup pigs also, there are some diseases that can be treated with home preparations once the owner becomes sure of the symptoms. Some of the natural things work in an effectual manner and the pig gets relieved. Here are some of the best natural remedies for common problems of teacup pigs: Aloe Vera Aloe Vera works wonders when it comes to human skin and it does the same for the skin of a pig. Insect bites, sunburns, and wounds all can be well treated with the help of aloe vera that can be directly applied to the skin. It is very safe and causes no sort of irritation. Aloe vera gel can also be used for the same. Tea Tree Oil This is an efficient antiseptic that can be used in the case of all insect bites or parasitic infections. The oil has cineole and terpenes, the two active chemicals which play their part in treating such infections. Canned Pumpkin This is the best home remedy for constipation. It also helps in diarrhea. Any bowel issues or digestive problems can be treated well with the help of canned pumpkin. This should otherwise also be the part of a pig’s diet because it keeps the digestive system of a pig healthy. Chicken Soup (low sodium) In case of diarrhea, vomiting or any other problem in which water loss occurs, low sodium chicken soup helps to rehydrate the body and strengthens the pig along with. Strawberry Koolaid This is easily available from supermarkets and can be given when the pig has low blood sugar. If the pig is undergoing any kind of medication, this can be given along with the medicine to soothe its taste. Coconut Oil Just like aloe vera, coconut oil is very good for the skin of the pig. For lubrication, it can also be consumed. Massaging dry skin or sunburns with coconut oil can be very helpful and also relaxes the skin. The dryness caused after the healing of wounds can also be cured with the aid of coconut oil. Such home remedies work well in case of some less serious and common problems linked with digestion and skin. If the problem does not get better with these, then the pig must be rushed to the vet as soon as possible. These remedies do not have any side effects and that is why they are preferred over other antibiotic medicines. These are not just medicines; they can also be regularly given or applied as these are good for a pig’s health. It is the responsibility of the owner that the pig stays healthy and all its problems must be tackled very carefully. A balanced diet that consists of all vitamins and minerals and regular exercise is very important to maintain the good health of a teacup pig.
How to know if a Teacup Pig is Unwell? A good teacup pig owner always keeps the symptoms of the pig in the notice. Pigs do change whenever they feel sick and such symptoms should be seriously handled and accordingly, the medication should be given. Pigs love playing in sand and mud and are therefore prone to diseases. Mood swings, changes in hunger, the coloration of the urine and skin changes should be monitored regularly. Any change in these can be an indication of the underlying disease. Following are the symptoms that should not be ignored at any cost: Coughing Nasal discharge Vaginal discharge (Colorless) Constipation Elevated temperature Mood changes Dark urine Concentrated urine Breathing issues Skin color changes (rashes, pimples, etc) Loss of appetite Too much itching Hair loss (pig’s hair do not usually shed) Hemorrhage (when it is from rectum, eyes, nose or ears) Changed posture Some of the pig diseases are common and can be cured with home remedies. In any case, none of the above-mentioned symptoms or any other sign must be taken lightly. Almost every ailment can be cured well if it is detected at an early stage. Constipation, respiratory issues and skin problems like dryness and sunburns are the most common problems that the pigs face. More serious problems are associated with kidney and skin. One must definitely try that the pig stays healthy and fit always. Regular exercise and a well-balanced diet is the key to keep a pig always fit and fine. What to do when such symptoms arise? Mostly, pet pigs are potbellied pigs and it is necessary that the owner finds an experienced and professional veterinary doctor. A doctor skilled in treating the problems of teacup pigs should be employed to look after a teacup pig. When the problem is sensed well on time, then it becomes easier to cure it and the pig becomes healthy again. An owner must be very cautious related to pigs and should take good care of them because it is not so easy to find a very professional vet for a pig. Another problem that the vets face is that these pigs are developed via extreme cross-breeding of various breeds. This makes it complicated to understand the genetic history of the pig. Therefore, in a few cases, the problem is not properly detected. This tells that taking care of the pig with full devotion and attention is very important. Owners must make sure that their pig does not catch hold of any serious issue other than the regular common pig problems. All symptoms should be well checked. Most often, the mood of the pig is the biggest sign that indicates the presence of an underlying disease. Though mood swings can occur otherwise also but one must take care that they do not last for a long time. Urinary or defecation changes show the unhealthiness of a pig. All these are warning signs and a good pig owner ensures that the pig stays healthy and free from diseases.
Things to Know Before Adopting a Teacup Pig There is an ongoing trend to keep teacup pigs as pets. Eminent celebrities like Paris Hilton and Victoria Beckham made these teacup pigs also very famous after they kept a pig as their pet. Their popularity, however, has seen a downfall in the past few years. Many reasons account for the same. Therefore, before one purchases a teacup pig, here are a few things one must definitely be aware of:- Their controversial name People mistake them for remaining small throughout their life owing to the name they have. These are actually potbellied pigs that can become very heavy and can surpass the average human weight easily once they reach adulthood. If one buys a teacup pig, one must be well prepared that it will become very big and difficult to take care of. They are fast breeders Pigs sexually mature when they are only a few months old. This may become troublesome if one has a female pig in the house. In most cases, it is recommended to get the domestic pigs neutered or spayed but this procedure is hard to perform and can only be performed by a highly professional veterinary doctor. If not well carried out, it can cause a very long-lasting pain in the pig’s body. Therefore, this is something one has to definitely consider before adopting a miniature pig. The pig should be fed well Many breeders keep the pigs malnourished in order to make them look small in size. This badly affects the health of the pig and is extremely unhealthy. This shortens the lifespan and also makes it prone to various health issues. Not only breeders but sometimes the owners also start feeding their pig less when it starts increasing in size. Owners think that maybe the pig is eating too much and that is why growing so large but in actual, that is the time when the pig starts to mature fully. Starving the pig can be very dangerous and should not be done at any cost because that is the time when it needs more amount of food naturally and if the diet is reduced, it causes bad effects on the animal. A lot of money is required to raise a pig Raising a pig is an expensive job and a lot of money is required in doing so. Firstly, pigs are expensive animals and then, they require a lot of stuff. They are just like small kids who require something or the other and can even damage things. When it comes to food, pig food is hard to find and in many cases, a natural diet is given. As and when the pig grows, requirements increase and much more money is spent. Therefore, buying a pig is recommended only if one is financially well stable. These are a few things one must definitely take care of and be well aware of before getting a mini pig. These adorable animals can be a cause of nuisance if not taken care of their needs. A lot of time and attention is required when one is raising a teacup pig. Hence, this decision must be taken carefully.
How Big a Teacup Pig can get? Teacup pigs are very trendy when it comes to keeping them as pets. These are intelligent creatures and make good pets. The main problem that the owners face is related to their size. Their name suggests that they remain small-sized forever but in actual, they grow up to be very large. These pigs have a fairly long lifespan which can extend up to 20 years and their growth rate is quite high. In a period of a few years, they can become very large sized. Therefore, the question that arises is that how big a teacup pig can actually get? Pigs reach their actual adult size when they are 5-6 years old. A one-year-old pig can weigh up to 70 pounds on an average. People estimate their size seeing the size of the parents. In actual, the parent pigs have also not yet reached adulthood and they tend to grow even after that. The reason being pigs become sexually active at a very young age and can breed. When the pig grows up to be very large, then many owners abandon them because it comes as a shock for them too and it is definitely not an easy task to handle a large animal well within the house There are cases where the pig acquires a weight of 200 to 300 kilograms. Having a pig so large and heavy in the house is very difficult. It requires more space and it hard to handle it efficiently since it is not possible to pick it up. If the pig then does not follow commands and tries to harm anything, it is not easy to stop it from doing so. It may also try to bite or harm the public or private property if it becomes aggressive. Such things make it difficult for the owner to keep it at home and thus they have to be given to animal rescuers. This is tough for both the pig and the owner too because of the emotional bond formed. Malnourished pigs do stay small and that is what most of the breeders do to make the pigs look small. Doing this is very harmful to the health of the pig and its upcoming generations because malnourished pigs do not live a long life. Most people looking for a steady companion buy a mini pig owing to its long lifespan. Malnourished pigs may stay small but incur health problems quite often. This becomes a financial burden for the owner altogether because the upbringing of a pig is in itself very costly. Therefore, every buyer must think well before buying a teacup pig because the word teacup is only an illusion and the pig will actually grow up to be large in size in its adulthood. One must consider this fact and very well keep this in mind before purchasing a pig because rendering it homeless at a later stage is a bad thing. One must choose a pet wisely and if one is ready to handle a large-sized pet, then buying a teacup pig is a good idea because after all, they do make very good pets.