How to Care for Baby Potbellied Pigs

Getting a new baby potbellied pig is an exciting venture for anyone. Baby pigs are adorable; but it's important to remember that they are also defenseless and may be scared. Take care to prepare for your new arrival so your new baby's transition is as painless as possible. Read on to learn more.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Toys
• Litter box
• Toddler gate
• Pig food
• Shampoo
• Food and water bowls
• Blankets

Prepare for a New Baby Potbellied Pig

1. Get everything you need for the piglet's sleeping area. You can find good, cheap blankets and pillows at your local thrift store. No need to buy them new. Pigs will shred their blankets anyway.

2. Create a bedding area in an enclosed space such as a bathroom, laundry room or walk-in closet. Use a toddler gate to separate this area, but still allow the piglet to see you. This will help you with house training.

3. Create an outside exercise area. This area should have a covered shelter for the pig to retreat to when he gets too hot or cold. Pigs need some outside time everyday.

4. Get a litter box for your potbellied pig. Cat litter boxes will only work for a few months as the pig grows. For a longer lasting solution, get a shallow plastic bin from your local home improvement store and fill with pine shavings or shredded newspaper.

5. Shop for heavy food and water bowls, grooming accessories, pig food and toys before the new pig arrives. Take care to only buy safe toys (i.e., anything you would give a toddler under 18 months old).

Bring Home a Baby Potbellied Pig

6. Allow the piglet to warm up to you by sitting on the floor with him. Remember the piglet is probably scared to be in a new space separated from his mother and litter mates. Using food as bait, coax the pig to you, allowing him to move at his own pace.

7. Ease into petting your pig, starting with the pig's side rather than head. When she is okay with you touching her all over, try to pick her up while sitting on the floor. Pigs generally don't like to be held; but you can train them to tolerate it with consistent care and patience.

Tips & Warnings

• Herd your pig instead of chasing your pig. Pig are naturally on guard against predators and they can be quick.
• Don't buy a piglet before it has been weened. This should happen between 6 and 8 weeks of age. Reputable breeders will not sell piglets younger than this.
• Make sure your male piglet is neutered before you pick him up. Males not neutered are aggressive and should not be kept as companion pets. Females should also be spayed between the ages of 6 weeks and 3 months.
• Make sure your yard is securely fenced in. This is to keep little pigs in and big dogs out. Stray dogs pose a real threat to the safety of your baby pig, as they are unable to defend themselves.