Pigs come in all shapes and sizes. They can be so many different colors, heights, and lengths. And each pig has its own personality. We know that overfeeding a pig really isn't good for them. It makes them susceptible to arthritis and tends to shorten their lifespan. We want our pigs to live as long as possible and be as healthy as possible. That is always the goal.
Now we are going to talk about something that is absolutely cruel and horrible to do to any living thing. .Underfeeding. Underfeeding is a big problem when it comes to pet pigs. So today I want to talk about what happens when we underfeed our pig, what it does to their bodies, why does this happen in the first place? The lack of nutrition has a huge impact on the body. If we are going to keep from doing this to our pig, and be able to help others, we need to know what the signs are of a pig that is underfed.
Physical signs:
Seeing skeletal bones we shouldn't see
Their head is too big for their body
Sunken eyes
Skin pigmentation is off
Extra dry skin
Very little hair and bald spots or extra thick hair
Bowed legs
They do not pick their head up
Resting their snout on the floor
Eyes only partially open
Unsteady footing
Curved back bone
Bloated belly
If you notice these signs on a pig, this is not the time to attack the owner. If we truly want to help people and help a pig you should not send a rude message on social media. They will not listen to you! If you reach out to them in friendship and community and stay kind you eventually might be able to bring it up in a kind and gentle way, they will appreciate your good motives. Most likely the person doesn't realize what they are doing.
Less obvious things happening in a malnourished pig's body.
Bones are weak
Prone to arthritis at any age
Lymphatic system isn't moving so immune system becomes weak
Organs are weakened
Body growth is stunted but organs continue to grow and are crushed.
Lack of concentration
Loss of motor skills
Hormones are affected and may be permanently damaged
Not a single living thing should be subjected to starvation. Why does this still happen? I have come up with three of the most common reasons.
It's done unknowingly
Their breeder or someone they know told them to feed tiny amounts.
They want to keep their pigs small.
Do not starve your pig. There is no such thing as a Micro, Nano or Teacup pig. Breeders can never guarantee small sizes unless they are starving their pig to keep it small.
Autumn’s Links:
Website:
https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/
Email:
Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com
Educational Membership Group:
https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/
Facebook:
HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs
Mighty Networks:
https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve
YouTube:
https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA
Newsletter:
