By Elisela Rojas & Team redlobito.com

Introduction

Caring for pigs requires a deep understanding of their behavioral needs, nutritional requirements, and health management. As experts in veterinary care, we provide this comprehensive guide to ensure your pigs are healthy, happy, and productive.

Understanding Pig Behavior and Needs

Social Structure and Environment

Pigs are highly social animals that thrive in groups. They establish a social hierarchy, which is crucial for maintaining harmony within the group. Providing an environment that mimics their natural habitat can significantly improve their well-being. Pigs need sufficient space to roam, root, and wallow. A well-designed pig pen should include:

• Spacious Living Area: Pigs need room to move around. Overcrowding can lead to stress and aggressive behavior.
• Comfortable Bedding: Straw or hay can provide comfort and insulation.
• Wallowing Area: Pigs lack sweat glands and use mud to cool down and protect their skin from parasites.

Enrichment Activities

To prevent boredom and promote natural behaviors, incorporate enrichment activities into their daily routine. This can include:

• Rooting Materials: Providing areas with soil or sand where pigs can root around.
• Toys and Objects: Balls, ropes, and other durable toys can keep pigs entertained.

Nutritional Requirements for Pigs

Basic Diet Components

Pigs require a balanced diet that includes proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. The dietary needs vary based on their age, weight, and purpose (e.g., breeding, meat production, pets).

• Proteins: Essential for growth and development. Sources include soybean meal, fish meal, and alfalfa.
• Carbohydrates: Provide energy. Common sources are grains like corn, barley, and wheat.
• Fats: Necessary for energy and healthy skin. Fats can be included through vegetable oils or animal fats.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Vital for overall health. Ensure the diet includes sufficient calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins A, D, and E.

Feeding Practices

Feeding pigs properly involves understanding their unique needs at different life stages.

• Piglets: Start with milk from the sow, transitioning to solid food around 3-4 weeks old. Use creep feed, a high-protein feed designed for young pigs.
• Growing Pigs: Require high protein and energy-rich diets to support rapid growth. Ensure constant access to fresh water.
• Adult Pigs: Adjust the diet to maintain a healthy weight. Breeding sows and boars may need specialized diets to support reproductive health.

Health Management

Routine Health Checks

Regular health checks are essential to catch any potential issues early. Monitor pigs for signs of illness such as:

• Lethargy or Unusual Behavior: Indicates discomfort or sickness.
• Changes in Appetite: Could signify underlying health problems.
• Respiratory Issues: Coughing or nasal discharge needs prompt attention.

Vaccinations and Parasite Control

Vaccinations are crucial to prevent common diseases. Work with a veterinarian to establish a vaccination schedule. Regular deworming and parasite control are also vital to maintaining pig health. Common parasites include:

• Internal Parasites: Roundworms, tapeworms, and flukes.
• External Parasites: Lice and mites.

Emergency Care

In case of injuries or sudden illnesses, having a first-aid kit and knowledge of basic pig care is essential. Common emergencies include:

• Injuries from Fights: Clean wounds and apply antiseptic.
• Heat Stress: Move the pig to a cooler area and provide water immediately.

Breeding and Reproduction

Breeding Practices

For those raising pigs for breeding, understanding the reproductive cycle is key.

• Selecting Breeding Stock: Choose healthy pigs with desirable traits.
• Mating: Ensure sows are in good health and at the appropriate age (usually around 8 months old).

Gestation and Farrowing

The gestation period for pigs is about 114 days. Prepare for farrowing by:

• Creating a Farrowing Area: A clean, quiet, and safe space for the sow to give birth.
• Monitoring the Sow: Watch for signs of labor and assist if necessary.

Caring for Newborn Piglets

Newborn piglets need immediate care to ensure survival.

• Ensuring Warmth: Piglets are susceptible to cold. Provide heat lamps or heating pads.
• Colostrum Intake: Ensure piglets nurse within the first few hours to get colostrum, which is rich in antibodies.

Common Diseases and Their Prevention

Swine Influenza

A respiratory disease that can spread rapidly. Prevent with proper vaccination and biosecurity measures.

Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS)

Affects reproductive performance and causes respiratory issues. Control through vaccination and strict hygiene practices.

Foot-and-Mouth Disease

Highly contagious and affects cloven-hoofed animals. Prevent with vaccination and quarantine measures for new pigs.

Conclusion

Proper care and feeding of pigs are fundamental to their health and productivity. By understanding their behavior, nutritional needs, and health management, we can ensure they lead healthy and fulfilling lives.