How to Care for Teacup Pigs

Teacup pigs -- also called pixie pigs, mini pigs or teacup potbelly pigs -- make intelligent, loving pets. In many ways, they require the same care as a puppy, but unlike puppies they do not shed or chew things. They are trainable, able to be housebroken and hypoallergenic. True to stereotype, pigs love food and will eat anything, so it is your responsibility to make sure your teacup pig only eats what is good for him. You also must give your teacup pig blankets to keep him warm, water to keep him cool and attention to keep him happy.

Things You'll Need

  • Pig feed
  • Water bowl
  • Blankets
  • Dog litter box
  • Kiddie pool (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Feed your teacup piglet 1/4 cup of pig feed from your vet or pet store in the morning and evening. Increase this amount as your pig gets older, following the instructions on the pig feed.

    • 2

      Leave a water dish for your pig that it can access at all times. Make sure the dish is heavy enough that the pig can't tip it over or weight it down. Pigs don't sweat, so they drink a lot of water in order to remain cool and hydrated.

    • 3

      Provide your pig with blankets for warmth, comfort and play. Leave blankets for your pig inside and outside, and keep one in the car for it.

    • 4

      Train your pig the way you would train a puppy, rewarding it for good behavior or for performing tricks by giving it treats. A single raisin or piece of cereal makes a good treat. Do not overfeed your pig with treats.

    • 5

      Use positive reinforcement to train your pig to use a dog litter box. Dog litter boxes have openings the pig can use to enter, unlike cat litter boxes, which require the animal to step up and into them. Pigs are not designed to step over raised box edges, so they are happier with dog litter boxes and more likely to actually use them.

    • 6

      Walk your pig daily on a leash to prevent it from gaining weight.

    • 7

      Put a kiddie pool in your yard if you have space, and let your pig lie in it to cool off on hot days.

    • 8

      Baby-proof your home the way you would for a crawling baby or small toddler. Your teacup pig is very smart and will learn to open low cabinets in search of food. Make sure they are all secured.

    • 9

      Find a local vet who treats pigs, and talk to him about getting your pig vaccinated. Some areas require it, and some do not. Give your pig an oral antiparasitic twice a year to keep it free of worms.

    • 10

      Have your pig spayed or neutered by your vet, unless you are planning to breed it. Unfixed teacup pigs become unruly when they grow to adulthood, and the males have a strong, unpleasant smell.

    • 11

      Give your pig toys to play with, love and attention. Like a puppy or a small child, it will bond to you easily and deeply, so raising a teacup pig requires an emotional commitment on your part.