Miniature Pot Belly Pigs

Miniature pot belly pigs are the latest pet craze amongst animal enthusiasts. Small piglets are adorable to watch and play with, however, the main concern for rearing them is their growing size. With increased interest in keeping pig breeds as pets, a 25-year breeding program is planned for creating small versions of farm pigs. The result of this program is development of perfect pet size, healthy miniature pot belly pigs or teacup pigs.

With miniature pot belly pigs as pets, you do not have to worry about their size. Because, the genetics of this breed are modified in such a way that even at maturity, miniature pot belly pigs retain their small size. As long as they feed on healthy diet and perform regular exercise, optimal health is expected. On the contrary, fatty foods and less physical activity will surely lead to weight gain of miniature pot belly pigs.

Miniature Pot Belly Pigs as Pets

Do not go by the advertisement hypes of teacup pigs, as the 'teacup' size is applicable only at birth. Full-grown miniature pot belly pigs weigh only about 30-65 pounds at maturity. They become mature within 2-3 years after birth. So, you can imagine the size of this mini pigs. In case, you are thinking of keeping miniature pot belly pigs as pets, but confused about their care tips, read the following guidelines for grooming them:

Housing
The most important aspect to be considered while planning to keep miniature pot belly pigs is their dwelling place. You can think of constructing a sufficiently large pen. Ensure that the temperature of the pen is maintained at 70 °F or a little higher. Besides this, they need cooling in warm weather. In such a case, you can take the pig out in the yard or pool to cool down.

Temperament
Miniature pot belly pigs are clean, gentle, lovable, intelligent and trainable. However, they can be destructive at times, specially when kept with an empty stomach for a longer time. They seldom bite humans, but be very careful, if you have kids at home. You may need to keep a close supervision on miniature pot belly pigs, particularly in the first few weeks of training.

Feeding
Specially formulated foods are available in pet stores for feeding miniature pot belly pigs. Supplement these foods with fresh fruits, vegetables and cooked dishes. As we all know, all pigs have a quest for food. So, be sure to feed your miniature pot belly pigs at regular intervals. Plan a feeding program and they will get used to it. Make sure that adequate amount of clean water is available to them.

House Training
House training miniature pot belly pigs is not as difficult as we consider it to be. You can train them to defecate in litter box or outside. In the first few days, you can take them outdoors after they wake up, and after you feed them. While indoors, you can confine them in a small area with the litter box. Within a short time, they will catch on the defecation routine. In case of accidents, wipe the area with vinegar or pet stain removal.

Grooming
Regular brushing, bathing and hooves trimming are some routine grooming activities necessary to keep your pet at its best. As mentioned already, miniature pot belly pigs require physical movements to remain healthy and control weight. Whenever you are free, take them outdoors and play with them. Do not forget to give vaccine shots as per the recommendations of the veterinarian.

Thus, for miniature pot belly pigs adoption, you should learn the grooming tips beforehand. After all, you want the best for your pet pig and yourself. With correct care instructions, you will definitely succeed in training miniature pot belly pigs. And believe me, they make wonderful companions, no less than the faithful pet dogs, provided you give enough attention. The prospective lifespan of miniature pot belly pigs is approximately 15-20 years.