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Items To Have For Your Pig
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:
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Bedding: Pigs are the nap queens of the animal world. They love anywhere they can lay down for a quick nap. Any dog bed will work. However, a donut bed seems to be a fan favorite around here.
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Food & Water Pans: Galvanized Steel Feed / Utility Pans make for easy feeding & watering.
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Feed: I use and love Nature's Best Organic Pelleted Mini Young and Active Pig Feed. There are other types of miniature pig pellet feed, but the organic is my favorite!
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Dewormer: I highly recommend Ivermectin for worming! It is a highly effective 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!
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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, ever. Miniature pigs should NEVER use a collar due to the risks of injury and suffocation. Their anatomy with thick neck & narrow head, makes it easier to obtain a neck injury and airway obstruction. Harnesses are recommended for safe 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 i adjusted to his/her new home life. If you plan to use the litter box, great but if it's not your thing, that's great too! Pigs can be thought to use the potty outside as you would teach a dog, except pigs pick up on the routine of going potty outside quicker. With treats in hand & given something to work for - They are easy to train!
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