Need help for 15 yr old potbellied pig?

Question

I have had him since he was 3 weeks old. He has stopped eating his feed, I was giving him puppy food and he stopped eating that. The only thing he will eat now is fresh veggies and fruit from the garden. The garden is winding down so picken are slim. He has lost about 100 pounds ( was about 250lbs at his peek). Any suggestions? There are no vets in my area who will even look at him. I need help. He is like my son and I do not want to watch him starve to death. I can not afford to buy fresh fruits and veggies daily for him. Please help me save Arnold!!!!!

Answer 1

Pot bellied pigs generally have voracious appetites and will eat nearly anything that you offer them. Unfortunately they are also very prone to obesity which can lead to foot and joint problems as well as other health problems. In addition to the health implications they can also become very persistent and pesky beggars and can even learn to open the refrigerator in their search for tasty treats. Feeding the proper diet, limiting treats and developing a feeding routine can help prevent problems.

Pot bellied pigs need a good quality diet that is high in fiber and low in calories. Ideally, a food formulated specifically for pot bellied pigs or mini pigs should be fed, No dog food plase,and these can now be found at some feed stores and pet stores. If your local store doesn't carry these diets they may be able to order them in for you, or you could also check to see if your veterinarian can order them. Here are some examples of pot bellied pig diets:

Mazuri (whose parent company is Purina)

Ross Mill Farms - you can buy online from their online Pig Store

healthypigs.com

In addition to the formulated diet, you can feed a good variety of fresh vegetables to make up about 25% of the pig's diet. Foods such as celery, cucumbers, peppers, carrots, potatoes and some greens are good choices (but try to limit the starchy vegetables like potatoes). Some fruits can be feed as well but only in moderation due to the high sugar content. Most pigs love treats like apples, grapes and raisins, but these are good to reserve as treats to be used in training.

Pigs should also be allowed opportunity to root in soil and graze on grass (not treated with chemicals or fertilizer). Pigs are susceptible to selenium deficiency but in most areas if they are allowed to graze and root in the soil they will get enough. If you live in an area with soil deficient in selenium you may need a mineral supplement. Check with your veterinarian for advice on this.

feed a diet specifically made for pot bellied pigs if possible

do not overfeed - never feed as much as they will eat since pigs have voracious appetites

do not feed dog or cat food (much too high in protein)

avoid fatty foods, particularly animal fats

absolutely avoid chocolate or salty snacks

ensure plenty of fresh water is always available .

Some human foods are not appropriate for the pet pig. Meat, Poultry, Fish, dairy products, cooked leftovers from the table, canned foods and alcoholic beverages cannot be included in your pig’s diet. Eliminate crackers, chips, pretzels, pizza, ice cream, cookies, cakes, pies and candy, expect on very rare occasions. The foods mentioned above, if fed regularly, can cause anything from obesity to an intestinal blockage. Salt and chocolate are two foods you never want to feed to your pig. Pigs can acquire salt poisoning from having too much salt in their diets. In some cases pigs are highly allergic to chocolate. Either of these foods have the potential to kill your pet pig. Be sure to keep all indoor and outdoor toxic plants out of your pig’s reach.

Go to your local grocery store, go to the produce department, and ask the produce manager for lettuce trim for your pig. Most managers will give you the trim free.  Wash and bag, place in fridge. use to give your pig a nice salad mix with veggies,Foods such as celery, cucumbers, peppers, carrots, potatoes and some greens are good choices (but try to limit the starchy vegetables like potatoes). Some fruits can be feed as well but only in moderation due to the high sugar content. add cooked white or brown rice and some good quality PBP food.  Don't over do it. Two good meals per day with lots of H2O.

Answer 2

OMB i wish i could help i love piggies but i dont know i hope someone can have you tried wet dog food?