Why Neuter a Potbelly Pig?

Neutered pigs are more docile and less stressed.

Neutered pet pigs have more consistent and happier personalities and exhibit more docile behavior. A neutered pig is also free of pesky hormonal problems and won't be preoccupied with finding a mate. As he gets older, the unfixed pig will begin to exhibit unpleasant territorial behavior. A fixed pig, in contrast, is much more likely to be a happy and loving member of your family.

Less Chance of Disease

Neutered pigs are healthier.

Neutered pigs have a lower chance of developing prostate infections and are unable to develop testicular cancer. In addition, spayed female pigs have a lower chance of developing mammary tumors and uterine infections. Their chance of developing ovarian cancer also diminishes.

Easier to Train and Less Territorial

Neutered pigs are more relaxed.

A neutered pig will be less aggressive and have less of a desire to fight. He will become more docile, which makes him a better student when it's time to train. The pig will feel less of an urge to roam and less of a desire to mark his territory. Also, neutered pigs generally have better personalities, since they don't have to spend so much time and energy in finding a partner.

Sexually Active Pigs Make Bad Pets

Pigs may become ornery if not neutered.

Male pot-bellied pigs become sexually active at about two months old. At this time, they will begin to emit a very foul odor and may become quite aggressive.

The Unpleasantness of a Pig's PMS

It never has to be "that time of the month" for your pet.

Female pigs have a very severe monthly menstrual cycle. Most pigs will have their first heat cycle at about 12 weeks of age. The pigs will then have a heat cycle that lasts three to five days every month for the rest of their lives. Female pigs become sexually active at five months, and they may become extremely unpleasant during their menstrual cycle.

Peeing When Happy

Hormonal pigs pee when happy.

Spayed and neutered pigs generally lack one disgusting habit that other pigs have: peeing when happy. A hormonal pig will proudly pee at the feet of her favorite people. While it is a show of their affection, it is also extremely dirty.

They Heal Faster When Neutered Young

The recommended age to neuter your pot-bellied pig is from four to six months. While pigs of all ages can be neutered, the procedure is most commonly done when young, since the pig will heal faster.

After the Operation

Let your pig rest after surgery.

Most pigs can go home the day after the surgery is performed. It is likely that they will be groggy due to the pain medication they received, so let them rest up. The pain medication will likely make them nauseous. Do not feed your pig as soon as you get home. Instead, offer a small amount of food and water after about an hour. Keep activity to a minimum the first few days after the surgery to let the incision heal. As well, keep contact with children and other pets to a minimum. Once healed, your pot-bellied pig is on its way to being a clean and well-adjusted family pet.

References

• Long Beach Animal Hospital: Pot Belly Pig Neuter
• Pigs 4 Ever: Spay and Neuter
• Pig Pals Sanctuary: Neutering the Potbellied pig