Recently, there’s a surge of popularity with “MINI PIGS” as pets. The cute size and unusual race makes it stand out compared to the common pet types. This makes a lot of us curious, how did mini pigs come to ‘life’?
How are mini pigs bred? Mini pigs are the result of careful raising methods used by breeders. It is the product of selective cross breeding.
This means that different types of pigs with short legs, short backs or just small body parts are often introduced to each other to breed and produce a tiny offspring.
The most important factor to
consider is the length of legs, breeders say.
While some other breeders claim that food and diet could also affect their
size.
Experimenting with miniature pigs began around 1998 when Chris Murray of Devon,
England wanted to produce a smaller breed of pigs.
Apparently, it took Murray 9 years to “successfully” develop what is now known
as “micro pig” or “teacup” pig. He experimented with four different breeds just
to achieve it!
Scientifically, it is said that “micro” or “teacup” breeds are not a “real breed” and it’s just a word used to describe the small physique of the pigs and that there is no guarantee that a “teacup” pig will stay as small as it is.
Despite this scientific belief, a
certain breeder claims that with his careful and selective breeding program,
it’s possible to keep a lineage of small pigs.
This “program” is similar to what was mentioned above, it’s about pairing small
pigs together.
Eventually, they believe if they keep pairing up the small pigs together, their future offspring could be as small as the parents and do not grow surprisingly larger than expected by their owners.
It certainly is interesting to learn about how such “breed” came to the scene because of long term dedication by these breeders. However, there are certain things we need to know about SELECTIVE BREEDING.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES & DISADVANTAGES
| PROS OF SELECTIVE BREEDING | CONS OF SELECTIVE BREEDING |
| Higher profit for breeders | Expensive needs for expensive breeds (High maintenance pets) |
| Possibly create a stronger breed | Medical issues, shorter lifespan, or body complications |
| There’s a possibility for the unique breed to produce unique quality products. | High risk of transmitting disease from one specie to another thus infecting an entirely new specie |
| Can possibly create a smarter breed | Can affect the mental capabilities of an animal |
With that listed, there are still a lot more advantages and disadvantages than the ones listed above.
So far, scientific study states that miniature pigs have a tendency to have shorter lifespans and more prone to complicated medical conditions.
Contrary to this statement, miniature owners themselves claim that as long as their miniature pig is well cared for and have proper diet; pigs can then live to 15 years up to 20 years.
There is more positive feedback about miniature pigs than negative ones, so it’s up to your discretion on what point of view you would like to take on regarding this topic.
Unlike dogs that are a product of selective breeding, pigs are said to have less medical problems.
There are actually still on-going debates whether this program of breeding miniatures not just pigs, but of other animals as well should continue or not as it promotes risky developments for the animals involved.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE ADOPTING A MINI PIG
As mentioned above, there might some complications depending on your breeder. It is also not guaranteed that your teacup pig will remain a teacup size forever.
Pigs are a huge responsibility just like any other pet.
Before taking one in, make sure you are ready to take the risks. Many miniature pigs get ABANDONED or LEFT at hobby farms, sanctuaries or RESCUED by compassionate people.
Why do they get abandoned?
They get abandoned when they grow larger than they were expected.
Pigs are not toys or presents – it is also not their fault that they grow bigger than you expected. They are intelligent and can feel emotions. Just because you do not want them anymore, doesn’t mean you can just throw them away.
Please take the time to find them a home or at least, a proper sanctuary.
Do you know that the numbers of abandoned animals, not just pigs, are growing rapidly to the point that there are not enough sanctuaries and rescuers to take them in anymore?
As the better race, we must be responsible when taking in an animal or raising them.
The main reason why miniatures were bred was because of the desire to sell them as pets! And if they grow too large to be a “house pet”, they become unwanted and that seems cruel for the animal.
Be financially prepared.
As
mentioned earlier, they may come with complications and special medical needs.
Immediately have them checked with your local veterinarian to see if there is
anything that needs to be done or treated. It may cost you to get their
vaccinations, spaying and neutering done but it’s worth keeping your pig
healthy.
It is also suggested to let them have annual medical checkups too.
There are also certain needs that have to be done such as trimming the hooves, only a vet could do or any experienced pig owner/handler.
Aside from the healthcare or medical needs, you also have to prepare costs for feeding and water.
Researching about pigs, an average pig that gets raised normally could cost up to $600 or more.
They eat fruits and vegetables and need to have a balanced diet. The best feed you could provide is a real pig pellet which has all the nutrients a pig would need.
Safety, Behaviors and More
The most important information that needs to be known is that PIGS SHOULD NOT EAT MEAT.
Why must pigs not eat meat?
Despite being omnivores, eating meat is the easiest way they could be infected with various diseases coming from the meat. It’s how viral infections made an outbreak once transmitted to humans.
Therefore for your safety and your pig’s health, please do not feed them any kind of meat.
They are not picky eaters, so you will have a wide range of choices to choose from when feeding them. Pigs also eat grass and certain insects so it can be a good idea to let them graze on your lawn or backyard.
Pigs will also need a bit of sunshine and its vitamins! Make sure to let them out in the sun every once in a while.
Keeping a pig cooped out could cause sickness, stress and depression as they are intelligent, curious creatures that need freedom to explore and run around.
Pigs are surprisingly gentle and sweet
Contrary to their bad reputation, they are actually very clean and may like cuddles and even sitting on your lap.
Tail wagging is a sign that they are happy and content.
Pigs are also NOT VIOLENT or aggressive, so it’s very safe to keep them around people and even kids. They do not develop a territorial behavior unless they are wild pigs.
Since pigs are prey animals, they tend to prioritize flight rather than fight.
If you notice your pig behaving
strange, please get them checked as they might be sick or in pain.
For other cases, it could be due to a past trauma of being mistreated or
abused. This means you need to be patient with your pig and give them time
until they heal.
Pigs are social animals and can get along with other house pets.
However, be careful when pairing them with dogs as it can be situational. Observe interaction with each other as a prey animal can easily be threatened by big predators such as dogs.
With that said, pigs can be lonely, grumpy or depressed.
It’s suggested to give them a companion that they get along with and prevent keeping them in one place. You must be committed to a pet pig the way you are committed to a pet dog.
You can take them out for walks to make them happy and relieve them of stress.
Please understand that regardless of their size, they are still the same miniature baby that you wanted. So even when they grow larger in size, more than you actually anticipated, please don’t throw them away like an object.
These are just a few things you need to make note of or know about before adopting a miniature pig.
RELATED QUESTIONS
- Is it legal to own a pig?
The answer depends on where you live. Laws differ on every country especially regarding animal welfare. It’s highly recommended to check with your local officers to verify first before you adopt a pig.
If it requires a license, please register your pig for its safety and yours too. It might also come with various benefits, so it’s worth the cost.
- How much does it cost to raise a pig?
An estimated total could take up to $600 and more. It’s natural to wonder about the total costs after finding out about their needs, so here’s a helpful page that can explain all the costs in full detail for you.
Link: https://lovelivegrow.com/cost-to-raise-a-pig/
to explain further with more detail, the feed alone could get expensive. You must also consider the amount of water supply for drinking. Housing or bedding if they are indoor pets is necessary for comfort too. Medications and treatments should be added to your calculations and lastly, if it’s required, licensing may cost some money as well.
Please be reminded that prices may differ depending on your country or area therefore we can only provide an estimated amount.
- Where can I get pig necessities?
You can purchase feed from poultry supply shops or by directly asking farms themselves. Other pet stores can provide pellets too, including toys and tools to use for caring. You may consult your veterinarian to further check if your pig has special needs. An alternate option is ordering online.