Pet pigs are becoming increasingly popular pets, and it is not hard to see why. If you are thinking of getting a pet pig, here is what you need to know.
Getting a pet pig is a big step, and it’s not to be taken lightly. Pigs are intelligent, social, sensitive and loyal animals, who require much love and affection if they are to flourish. Don’t think you can just put them in a pen and ignore them — these beautiful creatures deserve your attention, commitment and love!
If you’re thinking about getting a pet pig, you may be wondering if it’s the right choice for you. Here are some things to consider when deciding whether or not to bring home a pig.
- Pigs are intelligent, friendly animals that can easily be trained to do tricks and even play fetch. They love being involved in your daily activities and will never pass up a chance to be with their human family members.
- Pigs need lots of attention and socialization, which means they’re not ideal for people who work long hours or have limited mobility or access to transportation. If you’re unable to provide these things for your pet pig, it may be best for both of you if you choose another type of animal companion instead.
- Pigs are very clean animals (which is great if you don’t want to deal with messy litter boxes!), but they do require plenty of space in order to feel comfortable (and happy!). If you live in an apartment or condo with limited outdoor space, then getting a pig may not be the best idea since they need room to run around and explore every day!
If you’re thinking about getting a pet pig, there are a few things to consider first.
Pigs are intelligent, social animals with complex emotional lives, and they can learn tricks and respond to commands. They’re also very loving and enjoy human companionship. However, they’re not as clean as dogs or cats, so you’ll have to do more work to keep your home tidy if you get a pig.
Pigs can be taught to use a litter box, but they will still need space outside for exercise and the opportunity to root around in the dirt for food. If you don’t have enough space for your pig in your yard or on your property, consider making arrangements with an animal rescue organization that has room for pigs who need homes.
Should I Get A Pet Pig
The popularity of pigs as pets does not seem to be waning. Though they are hypoallergenic, clean, intelligent, loving, and stinking cute, they are different from a cat or dog and present their own challenges.
While they can be wonderful pets, there are some things you’ll want to consider before you make a purchase or adopt. The last thing you want to have to do is get rid of a pet (which, if that pet is a pig, might not be that easy to do).
Things to Know Before You Adopt a Pig
- Pigs become very attached to their humans. Pigs have been known to become quite depressed when removed from their homes.
- Should you buy a pig and then decide it isn’t working out, there are pig rescue organizations. They are, however, quite full.
- While cats and pigs are known to become fast friends, dogs are a natural predator of pigs and are probably not a good fit.
- Spay or neuter your pig as soon as possible. Male pigs that are not neutered will develop a musky scent that sticks to clothes and furniture. Females can develop uterine problems if they are not spayed.
- Pigs can be taken on vacation. You will need to practice riding in the car with them until they are comfortable. However, if you leave your state, you will need a health certificate, and finding a hotel could be challenging.
- Most kennels do not take pigs. They are simply not set up to provide them with the care they need. Hiring a pig sitter is probably a better choice.
- Consider adopting a pig from a rescue organization or pig sanctuary. Many people have the best of intentions but abandoned their animals, so there are plenty of pigs to choose from. If they are full-grown, you will see their size, get a good idea of their temperament and if they have any health issues.
How Big Can a Pig Get?
Many people are not prepared for the fact that the cute little piglet they were told would stay small can grow to 100 pounds. Pigs can produce offspring at the age of three months.
At this age, they are still small, and unscrupulous breeders will be more than happy to show you the parents of the piglet you want to buy without telling you how big they truly become. Breeders will also keep pigs small by simply not feeding them very much. They are small because they are malnourished. Pigs were bred as livestock, not pets, so unless you want a 100-pound farmyard animal as a pet, do them a favor and don’t get one.
Piglets
Wikimedia Commons
Do Pigs Make Good Companions?
Though pigs were originally bred as livestock and not family pets, they can still be good companions. Pigs are pack animals and crave body heat and the closeness of a pack. They are affectionate and love to have their tummies rubbed and to snuggle. They squeal with delight, bark when they sense danger, and make a coughing sound when they are mad. Many owners dress up their pigs, take them for long walks, travel with them and even sleep with them.
Pigs are highly social animals. Some need the companionship of other pigs, so you may be looking at buying two pigs, not one. Most cannot be left home alone during the day as they will become destructive. They are also territorial and will claim your house as their own. Giving them plenty of time outside should help with this. On the farm, pigs establish a pecking order and will do so in your home as well without strict discipline. Pigs that are allowed to rule the roost can become aggressive toward people, so you will need to make sure you are the pack leader.https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/Bm5YQt9eJqI?start=0
Keep in Mind
Pigs are highly social animals. Some need the companionship of other pigs, so you may be looking at buying two pigs, not one. Most cannot be left home alone during the day as they will become destructive. They are also territorial and will claim your house as their own.
What Are the Care and Feeding Requirements for a Pig?
Pigs are generally quite healthy animals. One visit to the vet per year is all they need to get vaccinations and hoof trimming. Pigs have bristly hair that is hypoallergenic and does not shed, making them a good alternative to dogs and cats for people who suffer from pet allergies. Despite the prevailing stereotype, they are clean and odorless and can live up to 20 years.
It is true, however, that pigs love to eat. There are feeds that are designed for potbelly pigs and should always be the mainstay of their diet. Pigs should never be fed dog or cat food as the protein level is too high. Pigs can be given treats, but they should be limited to fruits and vegetables. Pigs can become overweight and can develop leg problems.
Because pigs can’t sweat, they will need a mud hole or kiddie pool to cool off during hot weather. They will also need sun protection, whether it is mud or sunscreen.
Before purchasing your pig, make sure you can find locally available care from a qualified veterinarian. In many suburban and urban areas, this can be quite a challenge. Many municipalities ban the keeping of livestock as pets, so there is very little need for vet care in these areas.