How to Take Care of a Pot Belly Pig

Originating from Vietnam, pot belly pigs are much smaller than the normal farm pig, which can weigh as much as 1,500 pounds. On average, a full-grown pot belly pig weighs between 70 and 150 pounds and is about 3 feet long and 15 inches tall, according to the Oklahoma State University website. A pot belly pig requires an adequate outdoor environment and a specific diet. Improper care can result in illnesses such as pneumonia and obesity.

Things You'll Need

  • Grassy outside area
  • Mud pit or small shallow pool
  • Shaded shelter
  • Blankets
  • Straw
  • Commercial pig food
  • Children's chewable multi-vitamin
  • Fruits
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Instructions

    • 1

      Spray or neuter your pot belly pig. Sprayed females have a less chance of developing mammary tumors or uterine infections. Neutering males will decrease the odds of testicular cancer and will also make them less aggressive, states the Home Sweet Home Animal Rescue website.

    • 2

      Take your pig to a veterinarian to receive necessary vaccinations. The Pig-A-Sus Homestead Sanctuary recommends yearly Atrophic Rhinihs, Leptospirosis and Erysipelas vaccinations.

    • 3

      Allow your pig outside access at all times. The Pigs Animal Sanctuary website states that pot belly pigs kept as inside house pets often become aggressive. Pigs need a grassy area outside for rooting, a natural behavior that involves them digging in dirt with their snouts.

    • 4

      Create a mud pit or shallow pool with a plastic kid's pool for your pig. Since pigs cannot sweat, they need a way to cool off during hot days. Mud has the added benefit of protecting pigs from insects and sunburn. Also build a simple shaded shelter outside for your pig.

    • 5

      Provide an abundance of blankets and straw in your pig's sleeping area during the winter months. Pot belly pigs are very susceptible to pneumonia because of the small size of their lungs, according to the Pigs Animal Sanctuary website.

    • 6

      Feed your pot belly pig twice a day, and provide fresh water at all times. Choose a commercial pig food that has a protein content of about 12 percent, which will help prevent urinary calculi's in male pigs, states the Home Sweet Home Animal Rescue website. Since pigs are at a high risk for salt toxicity, also choose foods low in salt. Give your pig a children's chewable multi-vitamin every day.

    • 7

      Use fruits such as raisins, bananas and grapes as special treats. To reduce the risk of obesity, do not feed your pig foods high in sugar, calories and starch.