Welcoming a miniature pig is exciting and with all of the products on the market for pigs these days, it can be easy to get overwhelmed and work yourself into a headache trying to figure out what you need. And, if you're new to pigs and not a seasoned pig owner, it can get a little confusing at where to even start. That is why I put together this list of my favorite items and things that I personally use every day with my pigs.

I tend to follow the rule-of-thumb of keeping things simple, so with that in mind, please remember that this is a list of the basic items that work for me. Owning a miniature pig is a learning experience. Over time you may find other things that work better for you & your pig.

Here are things I recommend:

(click the photos below to be directed to the links to purchase)
 

• Bedding: Pigs are the nap kings and queens of the animal world. They love anywhere they can lay down for a quick nap and the comfier the spot the better! You can use any dog bed that you prefer; however, the donut and ortho beds seem to be the fan favorites around here. Pigs love a good blanket with their beds.  You can find really great inexpensive bed and blanket options at Amazon, Walmart, Tractor Supply, TJ Maxx, Marshalls & HomeGoods.

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• Food & Water Pans:  Galvanized Steel Feed / Utility Pans make for easy feeding & watering. These can be found at Tractor Supply! 

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• Feed: I use and love Nature's Best Organic Pelleted Mini Young and Active Pig Feed. Nutrena Country Feeds Pellet Mini Pig Feed and Mazuri Mini Pig Youth / Active Adult Feed are other great options as well. These feeds can be found at Chewy, Tractor Supply or most local feed stores.

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• Dewormer: I highly recommend Ivermectin for worming! It is a highly effective all-purpose wormer and can be used as an injectable for given by mouth with food. I have used it both ways with the same great results! You will need to purchase an 1 - 1/2 inch 18g needle and a 3cc syringe to draw up the Ivermectin. If you are planning to give with food, you can use the same draw up needle to administer the ivermectin onto a slice of bread and give it to your pig.  If you are planning to administer the Ivermectin as an injection subcutaneously, you will need to purchase a 1 inch - 20g needle to replace the 18g needle used for draw up. Injection is best given under the skin in the loosened soft area on the pig's neck behind the ear. All that you need for worming can be purchased at Tractor Supply. Dosage is 0.1 ml / cc per 5 lbs. A repeat dose will need to be given 10-14 days later to complete worming treatment. Worming is best kept on a routine of every 6-12 months or once every spring and fall.​

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• Bathing: Mane & Tail Shampoo & Conditioner has worked well for my pigs for many years.

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• Harness and Leash: Our piglets go home with a harness & leash fit for them while they're young. If you plan to use a harness & leash when your pig gets older, I highly recommend an adjustable rope harness & leash. Please do NOT put a collar on your pig. Miniature pigs should NEVER wear a collar due to the risks of injury and suffocation. Anatomically, pigs have a thick neck & narrow head that make it easier for them to obtain a neck injury and airway obstruction. Harnesses are recommended for safety and comfort while walking and for restraint.

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• Playtime & Enrichment: Treat balls, crinkle toys and tiny snuffed animal toys are a great way to keep your pig stimulated & happy. Rooting mats are great too! For summer days outside, I highly suggest a blue wade pool. Keep in mind that pigs are the happiest and most enriched outside in the sunshine, being able to graze & forage.

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• Treats & Supplements: These speak for themselves. Pigs love any treat they can get their snouts on. Cheerios are also a great option!​

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• Litter Box & Litter: Our piglets are litter box trained prior to going home. I have found that a small rabbit pan works perfect for a litter box. I use compressed pine pellets with my piglets for litter. It is easy to clean, low dust, low odor and a little goes a long way! If you plan to keep your pig inside, I recommend a litter box for the first couple weeks until your piglet is well adjusted. If a litter box isn't quite your thing. Pigs are extremely food motivated and can be thought to use the potty outside. Training is very similar to how you would teach a dog, except pigs tend to pick up on going potty outside quicker. With treats in hand or motivation & something to work for - They are easy to train! Videos of how to train your pig so can be found on YouTube.

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