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.
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.
Understanding a Teacup Pig Whenever one buys a teacup pig, it is very important that it becomes friendly with the owner. This is an intelligent animal and it is necessary that one should train this animal well and in an efficient manner. Understanding the pig and its needs is the responsibility of the owner. A healthy relationship must be sustained between the pet and its owner because this is the key to make the animal feel like it is the part of a family. How to make the pig comfortable with you? One should not stand in such a posture as the pig feels like someone threatening is there. Sitting and speaking in a very soft tone with the animal makes it feel comfortable around the owner. Holding hands with the pig, patting it sweetly and most importantly, handling it like a small child makes it feel special. One should give the pig the time to bond with and get friendly with the members of the family. The pig should be given an appropriate name and should start recognizing it by the actions of its owner. Give the pig a few baby toys, some tasty fruits and play with the pig. This also works as some sort of training for the pet as it starts to notice and remember whatever actions are used by the owner. The owners must themselves approach the pig until and unless it becomes at ease and familiar with the owner and starts calling out the owner itself. In any case, no harsh methods must be used against the animal as it will create fear inside it and it can also try to harm people or things. Playing with the pig, making it exercise daily should become a part of the routine. On playing well or exercising well, the pig should be awarded a small treat as it excites its interest in such things. Also, the pig should become aware of the times it has to be fed. It should not be given food at just any time and must have a proper schedule for meals. Pigs have a quality that they learn quickly and get adjusted to this stuff well. This helps in keeping the pig healthy and fit. How to potty train the pig? Pigs can be well train to urinate or defecate in only litter boxes, specially designed for this purpose. This keeps the surroundings neat and clean, and also the pet acquires sophisticated manners to blend in with the urban society. This works well for both the owner and the pet as well. If one takes care of such things and the pig is trained well, having a pet can become a joyful and wonderful experience. One must definitely take care that an animal is a little difficult to understand but once a connection is formed, then they show their concern and love for their owner more than anything else. It is essential that the pet feels as it is also a member of the family and not an outsider. This makes it a great companion for anyone fond of keeping pets.
Are Teacup Pigs Troublesome? No one can ignore that teacup pigs are super cute animals and people love to keep them as pets. They are regarded as highly intelligent animals who can bond with humans well. Having a teacup pig in the house is however not all roses. Often it is said that teacup pigs are troublesome animals and should not be kept as pets. This review varies from person to person. Here, we will discuss the troubles related to keeping teacup pigs as pets: Is the existence of teacup pigs a hoax? Finding actual teacup pigs is hard or in other words, teacup pigs do not exist. This contradicts with what actually people demand. Very few breeders are capable of producing actual teacup pigs. Mostly, to increase the sale of pet pigs, breeders do not feed them properly or keep them starved. This causes them to look small because of being malnourished. Therefore, it is true that finding a real teacup pig is hard and these pigs grow up to be very large after a few years. Sometimes, they grow so large that it becomes difficult to keep them inside the home. This is how many pigs are left homeless. Therefore, if one wants to buy a teacup pig, one must be prepared that it can grow up to be very large in size and that is not so easy to handle. Even the parent pigs are in most of the cases, malnourished. One cannot have any reliability in such a case as it is of buying a teacup pig. Pigs mainly grow in size and their behavior usually remains the same. Therefore, handling the tantrums of a small pig and big pig is not the same. This is actually troublesome for the ones who are busy. Teacup pigs are like small kids These pigs behave as if a small child is there in the house. They want their owners to run after them, play with them and do a lot of stuff with them. In short, they demand ample time from their owners. They also reciprocate the love they get from their owners but in the busy lives of today, it is hard to devote so much time to a pet. The problem arises when lack of time causes the pig to become aggressive and it starts hampering things. This turns out to be very difficult for the owner because bringing up a pig is already very expensive and if it starts breaking things, it becomes even more disturbing. Due to such reasons, many people leave their pigs and this is not at all a good thing to do. It is better not to purchase a pig if one cannot give time. These main troubles are usually faced by the owners and if these points do sound relatable, then one must not go for a teacup pig and look for some other pet instead. Troubles for someone may not be the same for everyone. Therefore, it is always better to be aware of almost everything before buying a teacup pig.
Things to do with a Teacup Pig Having a teacup pig as a pet can be a pleasurable experience if one takes proper care and keeps the pig healthy. A pig is a steady buddy for humans since its lifespan is quite long. There are certain things and activities that every owner must do with their pig so that the pig does not feel bored and also does not disturb anyone. Pigs are basically livestock animals so they need to be treated quite differently. One cannot expect a pig to act in a similar way, as the pet dogs and cats behave. Their distinct demands and behavior are something that needs to be well understood and accepted as well. It is necessary for the pig to do activities that enhance it. This keeps the pig healthy and also happy. The pig gets less irritated if it is engaged. Owners can make their pig active by employing them in certain goings-on such as: Treat Balls (Dispensers) Several treat balls are available and they come in various different sizes, shapes movements. Also, the ones for pigs are different from those available for dogs and cats. All types of food get into such balls. One may put pig pellets, seeds, nuts, popcorn, low-sugar food or anything in the balls. Pigs like to root and then they are given treats. Rooting Pigs have a natural urge for rooting. This can be made a fun activity for them by giving them a sandbox. In that, one can place small food items for the pig to find and eat. The pig, however, should not eat sand. This thing must be taken care of for sure. Also, small rocks, stuffed toys, blankets and such stuff may be kept. This stuff should consist of items that the pig cannot eat. This activity keeps the pig happy. Similarly, instead of sand, a hay pile or box may be used. Blankets Pigs love playing with blankets in their beds. Blankets serve as wonderful toys for pigs because they like to roll inside and play with them. Toys Toys such as stuffed toys or toys that make sounds that are used for infants are the ones that the pigs love to play with. Water pool Pigs like to have a small pool of their own wherein they like to take dips when the weather is too hot. This is both healthy and keeps the pig engaged. In summers, it is important for the pigs to stay hydrated because they do not perspire and taking water dips helps them maintain their water balance. Mud Playing Playing with mud is another activity that the pigs enjoy a lot. This is a summer activity and the pigs love to spend time playing in the mud but the owner should make sure that the pig has a nice bath after playing so that it does not catch hold of any infections. These are some activities that keep the pet engrossed. Food treats given in different ways are well enjoyed by the pigs. Owners can come up with different ideas and help the pig stay happy and healthy.