Ways to Prevent Pigs From Gaining Weight

Pigs are usually raised to be sold as market animals and their diet is designed to quickly fatten them. The most common diet for pigs contains grains such as corn, barley, oats and wheat. This diet is supplemented with vitamins, protein supplements and antibacterial compounds. Market pigs are usually around 230 pounds when ready to be sold, but some people keep pigs as pets. For pet pigs, weight control is essential.

  1. Proper Diet

    • Pet pigs should be given food formulated specifically for pot bellied pigs or mini pigs. Commercially available "pig chow" is available that has a low energy, high fiber ratio to promote proper growth while satisfying hunger. This pig chow contains needed vitamins, minerals and health supplements. Fresh vegetables should make up about 25 percent of the pig's diet. These can include celery, cucumbers, peppers, carrots, potatoes and some garden greens.

    Exercise

    • Some pig breeds, such as Dandies and Teacups, more readily exercise themselves by climbing and jumping due to their smaller size. Larger breeds must be coaxed to exercise if kept indoors. Pigs that are allowed access to a fenced in area will naturally wallow and root in the cool ground. Pigs need fresh air and direct sunlight. Sunlight gives them the natural Vitamin D, which is essential for absorption of calcium and phosphorus.

    Housing

    • Shelter is critical to all pigs. They need to wallow outdoors to ensure the proper regulation of body temperature in hot weather, because pigs cannot sweat. Pet pigs kept outdoors should have their own dry and sheltered sleeping spot, usually with hay for bedding. Indoor pet pigs will need a heated area in winter and air conditioned area in summer, as well as litter and bedding. Water should be readily available.

    Training

    • Pigs naturally search for food. If living in a house, pet pigs learn to open cupboards and even refrigerators, wherever food is stored. They can become demanding, begging for food. Human food, and even dog and cat food, can have high protein levels that are fattening. Some ingredients such as salt and chocolate are dangerous for pigs. Training is required to keep the animal from eating improper food.