Common Problems With Potbelly Pigs

Like other types of farm animal, potbelly pigs are common throughout the United States. Whilst they are found on farms, a growing number of American are also keeping these animals inside the home as pets. Potbelly pigs were initially introduced into the United States during the 1980s and quickly became highly sought after household pets, mainly due to the fact they rarely exceed 20 inches in height, are extremely intelligent and can be fed a variety of diets. Like any other domesticated animal though, the same health and behavioral problems will tend to arise. Knowing the common problems associated with potbelly pigs is vital if you wish to keep them happy and pain-free well into old age.

  1. Living Conditions

    • Keep your potbelly pig in suitable living conditions. Do not confine your potbelly pig to small living spaces. Ideally they should have space outside for them to work off extra energy as well as a warm pig house or special area to nest in. A problem with keeping potbellied pigs outdoors is that they do not cope well with the cold, so they will need a place which is warm to nest into. Place plenty of straw down so they can burrow into it and keep warm.

    The Risks of Over-Eating

    • Feed your pigs a controlled diet. Do not just feed them anything you can get your hands on as they will eat anything, and as a result they will put on weight. This can become a problem as a fat potbellied pig will experience the same health issues as a fat human. Potbelly pigs will be happy to dig for food in your yard and will eat plants and insects. If you want to feed your potbelly pig inside, special pig chow is available which will limit the amount of calories it eats and help to keep its weight in check. Remember that potbelly pigs will eat nearly anything including poisonous plants. Always keep house plants or known dangerous plants away from potbelly pigs.

    Temperament

    • Neuter your potbelly pig. If you do not neuter them, they can become quite aggressive and stubborn. It is up to the owner to establish dominance and make a potbelly pig earn its food. Many potbellied pigs are abandoned during their teenage years where they are know to push their owners patience. Female potbelly pigs can also become quite territorial and aggressive during pregnancy.

    Joint Pressures

    • Watch your pig's weight. If it gets too heavy, it will put extra pressure onto the joints and result in arthritis, which is a common problem in potbelly pigs.

    Inbreeding Problems

    • Find a well respected breeder to buy your potbelly pig from. Inbreeding is a serious problem which can result in horrible defects in potbelly pigs such as potential sinus deformations and leg deformations.