Mini Pig Health Care: Vaccinations & Common Illnesses

Proper health care is essential for ensuring your mini pig lives a long, happy life. Understanding mini pig health care requirements, from vaccination schedules to recognizing common illnesses, empowers you to be the best advocate for your porcine companion. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about keeping your pig healthy and when to seek veterinary assistance.

Why Preventive Care Matters for Mini Pigs

Mini pigs may seem hardy, but they require regular preventive care to avoid serious health issues. Unlike cats and dogs, pigs often hide symptoms of illness until they're quite advanced, making routine check-ups and vigilant observation crucial for early detection of problems.

When we first brought Tinker home, we learned this lesson the hard way when a seemingly minor limp turned out to be the beginning of a joint infection that required extensive treatment. Since then, we've implemented a proactive health care regimen that has kept both our pigs in excellent condition for years.

The Three Pillars of Pig Health

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, comprehensive mini pig health care rests on three essential components:

• Preventive care: Regular vaccinations, parasite control, and dental care
• Proper nutrition: Balanced diet with appropriate portion control
• Environmental management: Clean, safe living conditions with mental stimulation

Neglecting any of these areas can compromise your pig's immune system and overall health.

Essential Vaccinations for Mini Pigs

Vaccinations are a critical component of preventive health care for mini pigs. While vaccination protocols may vary based on your location and your veterinarian's recommendations, several core vaccines are generally recommended.

Core Vaccination Schedule

Vaccine	Initial Dose	Boosters	Purpose
Erysipelas	8-12 weeks	Annual booster	Protects against bacterial infection that causes joint pain, skin lesions, and fever
Parvovirus	12-16 weeks	Annual booster	Prevents reproductive failures in breeding pigs
Leptospirosis	16-20 weeks	Annual booster	Protects against bacterial disease that can affect multiple organs
Rabies	12-16 weeks	Every 1-3 years (based on vaccine type)	Required by law in many areas; prevents fatal viral disease

Always consult with a veterinarian experienced in mini pig health care to determine the appropriate vaccination schedule for your pig based on their age, health status, and local disease prevalence.

Optional Vaccinations Based on Risk

Depending on your pig's lifestyle and environment, your veterinarian may recommend additional vaccinations:

• Bordatella: For pigs in multi-pig households or those who board frequently
• Influenza: In areas with known outbreaks or for pigs with exposure to other animals
• Tetanus For pigs with outdoor access where they might encounter soil bacteria

The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service provides updated information on disease outbreaks that might affect vaccination recommendations in your area.

Common Mini Pig Illnesses and Conditions

Despite your best preventive efforts, pigs can still develop health issues. Recognizing early signs of common illnesses can help you seek treatment promptly.

Respiratory Issues

Pigs are susceptible to various respiratory conditions, from simple colds to more serious pneumonia.

Signs of Respiratory Distress:

• Coughing or sneezing
• Nasal discharge (clear, white, yellow, or green)
• Labored breathing or wheezing
• Lethargy and reduced appetite
• Fever (normal pig temperature is 101.5-103.5°F)

If your pig shows any of these signs, especially if accompanied by blue-tinged skin or gums, seek immediate veterinary care as this may indicate oxygen deprivation.

Skin Conditions

Mini pigs frequently experience various skin issues that require attention:

Condition	Symptoms	Treatment
Mange	Intense itching, hair loss, scaly skin	Prescription antiparasitic medications
Dry Skin	Flaking, dull coat, itching	Dietary adjustments, moisturizing sprays
Sunburn	Red, painful skin, especially on light-colored pigs	Pet-safe sunscreen, limited sun exposure
Fungal Infections	Circular lesions, scaling, itching	Antifungal medications, environmental cleaning

For more on managing skin conditions, check out our mini pig care guide.

Obesity and Related Conditions

Obesity is the most common health problem in pet pigs, leading to numerous secondary issues:

• Arthritis: Joint inflammation and pain from carrying excess weight
• Hoof problems: Overgrown hooves that develop cracks or abnormal wear
• Cardiac issues: Strain on the heart from excess body mass
• Hepatic lipidosis: Fat accumulation in the liver impairing function

Prevention through proper diet and exercise is far easier than treating obesity-related conditions. Regular weight monitoring and body condition scoring help catch weight gain early.

Parasite Prevention and Control

Both internal and external parasites can seriously impact your pig's health. A comprehensive parasite control program is essential for mini pig health care.

Internal Parasites

Common internal parasites in pigs include roundworms, whipworms, and nodular worms. Symptoms can include:

• Pot-bellied appearance despite proper feeding
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Weight loss or failure to thrive
• Visible worms in feces
• Coughing (some parasites migrate through the lungs)

Fecal testing every 6-12 months helps detect parasites before they cause significant damage. Your veterinarian can recommend appropriate deworming medications based on test results.

External Parasites

External parasites like mites, lice, and ticks can cause discomfort and secondary infections:

Signs of External Parasites:

• Excessive scratching or rubbing against objects
• Visible insects or eggs on skin or hair
• Hair loss, especially around ears, eyes, and tail
• Red, inflamed skin or scabs
• Restlessness or difficulty sleeping

Treatment typically involves prescription topical or oral medications. Never use dog or cat parasite preventives on pigs without veterinary guidance, as some ingredients are toxic to pigs.

The Merck Veterinary Manual provides detailed information on parasite types and treatment options for mini pigs.

Dental Care for Mini Pigs

Dental health is often overlooked in mini pig health care but is crucial for overall wellbeing. Pigs' teeth continue growing throughout their lives and require proper maintenance.

Common Dental Issues

Pigs can develop several dental problems that affect their ability to eat comfortably:

• Tusk overgrowth: In intact males, tusks can grow long enough to injure the face or mouth
• Malocclusion: Misalignment of teeth that prevents proper wear
• Tooth root abscesses: Painful infections at the tooth root
• Gum disease: Inflammation and infection of the gums

Dental Care Recommendations

Regular dental care helps prevent serious issues:

Care Type	Frequency	Details
Visual Inspection	Monthly	Check for broken teeth, redness, swelling, or discoloration
Professional Exam	Annual	Veterinary assessment of tooth alignment and wear
Tusk Trimming	As needed	Only by experienced veterinarian using proper tools
Chew Toys	Daily	Provide appropriate items to help wear down teeth naturally

We learned about the importance of dental care when Oink stopped eating his favorite treats. turns out he had a painful tooth root abscess that required extraction. Now we're diligent about regular dental checks.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

Knowing when to seek professional help is crucial for your pig's health. Some symptoms always warrant veterinary attention.

Emergency Symptoms Requiring Immediate Care

Seek emergency veterinary care if your pig shows any of these signs:

• Difficulty breathing or blue-tinged gums/tongue
• Inability to stand or walk
• Seizures or loss of consciousness
• Bloated, hard abdomen with signs of pain
• Temperature over 104°F or under 100°F
• Traumatic injuries or suspected fractures
• Signs of extreme pain (vocalizing, trembling, aggression)

Symptoms Requiring Prompt Veterinary Attention

Schedule a veterinary appointment within 24-48 hours for:

• Not eating for more than 24 hours
• Diarrhea or vomiting lasting more than 24 hours
• Lethargy lasting more than 48 hours
• Changes in drinking or urination patterns
• Skin lesions that don't improve in a few days
• Lameness that persists beyond 24 hours

The ASPCA provides additional guidance on recognizing health emergencies in pet pigs.

Creating a Health Care Routine

Establishing a consistent health care routine helps you stay on top of your pig's needs and catch potential issues early.

Daily Health Checks

Spend 5-10 minutes each day assessing your pig's overall condition:

• Observe eating and drinking habits
• Check manure consistency and quantity
• Note energy levels and interest in activities
• Look for any changes in skin, eyes, or nose
• Monitor mobility and gait

Weekly Health Maintenance

Once a week, perform more thorough checks and maintenance: