How to Raise Feeder Pigs to Eat

There are many different reasons that people decide to raise their own pigs for food. For some, it is knowing what their pigs have eaten and how they were killed. For others, it is an attempt to cut down on food costs. No matter what the reason, you need to be certain you have the right items in place to properly care for your pig. Can you actually carry through with the slaughtering? If these things are in place, you might be surprised at how fulfilling raising your own pigs can be.

Things You'll Need

• Pig pen
• Plastic dog house
• Water
• Water container with mounting brackets
• Feed trough
• Feed grain
• Food scraps
• Pig

Instructions

Preparing for Your Pig

1. Create a pen for your pig that is strong and secure. You must be sure the pig cannot escape from the pen.

2. Prepare the pig's living area ahead of time. Set up the water container and secure it to the side of the pen with the mounting brackets. Set up the dog house to provide shelter from rain, cold, or wind for your pig. Set up a feed trough for your pig as well. Purchase feed grain for your pig. To ensure the health of your pig, you may want to go for a higher quality grain.

3. Purchase your pig and bring it home to its pen. If you have purchased only one pig, you will need to be sure that you do not isolate it from other animals or from people. Spend time around your pig to keep it happy.

4. Check your pig's water and food at least daily. Provide your pig with table scraps, vegetable scraps, or lawn trimmings regularly. This will ensure that your pig receives a well-balanced diet. Continue to care for your pig until it is full grown.

5. Transport your pig to the slaughterhouse or slaughter it yourself. If you are doing it yourself, you will need to learn proper methods for ensuring food safety. You should also check for humane ways to slaughter your pig.

References

• Raise a Pig in Your Backyard