Some potbelly pigs are naturally plump-looking.
Potbelly pigs come from Vietnam. Even full-grown potbellied pigs are considered miniature next to the American farm hog, which can weigh as much as 1,000 lbs. Potbelly pigs can weigh anywhere between 100 and 250 lbs. with small, compact body shapes, upright ears and straight tails. They live an average of 10 to 15 years, and grow between 16 and 26 inches in height. Caring for a potbelly pig includes administering the proper feed, and ensuring the pig does not become bored and therefore destructive.
Instructions
Diet
1. Feed your potbelly pig a diet mainly of mini pig chow or feed, according to the Pigs 4 Ever website. Such feed is designed especially for potbelly pigs and contains proteins the pig cannot make itself. Feed pigs twice daily and feed piglets as often as you see fit, or about 2 cups of pig chow from six to eight weeks to a year old.
2. Ensure your pig always has access to fresh drinking water. Note that pigs will drink more depending on the time of year; for example, pigs drink more water during the wintertime or during very hot weather.
3. Create a housing space for your pig, either indoors or outdoors. If you have a room in your home you can dedicate to your pig, provide a sleeping area consisting of old blankets and pillows. Outdoor housing should consist of a sturdy, weatherproof barn or shed with lots of straw to keep the pig warm. Blankets are not recommended for outdoor housing as they can get wet.
4. Refrain from giving your pig a bath, which will remove oils necessary for keeping its naturally dry skin moisturized. Use a lotion for dry patches if desired, only make sure your pig is not allergic. Try a spot test on your pig using a small bit of lotion on a rougher patch of skin. If no reaction occurs after an hour or so, you can use the lotion all over the pigs body.
5. Know the signs of a sick pig. A pig that has lost its appetite is one of the major warning signs of illness, as is a pig standing hunched with hind legs underneath the body. Changes in behavior are another possible sign of illness. Take your pig's temperature anally and call your vet if you notice signs of illness. The average temperature of a grown potbelly pig is 99.3 degrees Fahrenheit.
Tags: drink more, Potbelly pigs, signs illness