Understanding the needs and responsibilities that come with taking pot-bellied pigs (who look so differently from all those wild boar pictures you’ve seen before) as pets must be considered first before you actually get one. Information about pigs and sites that show pig pictures free or anatomy of pigs are all readily available online, but here are the primary points to consider for the pot-bellied types.
What are the typical pros and cons about owning a pet pig?
Pigs are highly intelligent social animals and bond easily with humans. They are clean, odor-free, flea-free, non-allergenic, and are not expensive to feed and maintain. Unlike dogs, pigs do not bark and have no rabies. They also do not behave like dogs; dogs are eager to please their human masters. Pigs are demanding and manipulative. It is also suggested that they are adopted in pairs. Although they cost so much less to keep alive, when pigs become ill, then vet bills may run high. Moreover, qualified vets for pot-bellied pigs may be unavailable in some areas in the United States.
Can pigs be taken for a walk?
Like dogs, pigs can be walked on a leash and can be trained to ride in a car. But whenever a pet pig is taken for a walk, it takes its time to check out every little thing on the pavement like a leaf or a gum wrapper. You can also teach a pet pig to fetch certain objects, but it will only do so if it is amply rewarded because it does not enjoy playing catch.
Do pet pigs bite?
Pigs are naturally gentle, but they can also become aggressive, just like most animals, if they are competing for attention and food. Like dogs, they will bite if they are not trained properly.
Are pet pigs affectionate?
Pigs do not jump up like dogs and are not demonstrative of their emotions. What they love is to be scratched, massaged, and rubbed. Pigs also generally do not like to be picked up but they enjoy being cuddled.
What is the average life span of pot-bellied pigs?
When properly cared for, they live an average of twelve to fifteen years, some even for twenty years. As long as the pet pig is not kept obese and plenty of social interaction and outdoor activities are provided, then the animal will remain healthy and live longer.
What are the zoning laws for pet pigs?
Zoning laws and restrictions depend on which city and county you live in. Most cities do not allow farm animals to be kept as pets but several cities already revised their zoning laws to let pot-bellied pigs be kept as pets since miniature pigs can be considered as companion animals. The most important thing to remember before planning to own one is to check the zoning laws in your area first.
How big can pot-bellied pigs grow?
Potbelly pigs typically grow between eighty to one hundred sixty pounds. The average weight is roughly one hundred twenty pounds. For miniature pigs, they grow continuously and finally reach their full maturity after three to five years. Compared with farm pigs which reach the weight ranges of six hundred to one thousand pounds, pot-bellied pigs look light and cuddly enough to tote around as pets.
Does the size of their parents give an approximation on the eventual size of the pot-bellied pig offspring?
There is a correlation, but no complete guarantee that the offspring will take on the same size as their parents. In some cases, small parents produce large offspring.
What do pet pigs eat?
Pigs are fed a diet of grain, vegetables, and sometimes fruit. They also enjoy hay. Dog or cat foot must not be fed to a pet pig. Moreover, growing pigs and nursing mothers require more sustenance and calories compared to older and sedentary pigs. Feeding must be done twice each day coupled with yard grazing activities and lots of fresh water.
Can a pet pig stay indoors most of the time?
Pigs need sun and outdoor time and preferably, some exercise. They need certain nutrients that they can only derive from the soil, thus they must be given a chance to be outdoors. If you have a secure yard, then that would make a great difference in the life of your pet pig.
Where do pet pigs sleep?
If you keep your pot-bellied pig outdoors, you may use a doghouse or a shed in your yard. If indoors, then you may fashion a soft straw or hay bedding inside a large crate.
How best to pig-proof a house?
Like when owning any pet inside the house, you must stow in safe places all domestic cleaning items, chemicals, medicine, and toxic substances. If you have indoor plants (some of them may be harmful to your pig), then you must keep them off the floor. You must also take care not to feed your pet pig directly out of the refrigerator because they can easily learn and may soon open the refrigerator on their own. All wires, especially electrical cords, must be kept away. Most importantly, pet pigs must never be around open swimming pools.
Will the pet pig be allowed to play with pet cats and dogs in the house?
Cats and pet pigs can mingle safely, but not dogs. Dogs are natural predators of pigs and they can easily kill your pet pig. It is best to keep them away from each other.
Is a pot-bellied pet pig right for you?
All you have to do is to consider everything that’s been detailed above. Also, think if you can take the responsibility of owning and caring for a pot-bellied pig and if you are up to the challenge, then it is just the right pet for you and your family.
