Hoofin It Recommends
Welcome to "Hoofin It Recommends," your hub for mini pig care insights and tips. As a seasoned hoof care provider and devoted pig parent, I share invaluable knowledge gained from years of experience. While I offer trusted recommendations, I urge you to conduct your research to ensure the best care for your mini pigs. Explore the resources on housing, nutrition, and more, and let my expertise help you nurture happy, healthy pigs.
Click on the images to be linked to the related sites. I am not sponsored and I do not make any money by referring any of these products.
Feed
For many years, I exclusively fed my pigs Purina Nature's Match Sow and Pig feed, but I've recently made the switch to Kalmbach Squeals of Joy. My policy is to only recommend feed that I personally use for my own pigs. I've noticed that Kalmbach not only has a pleasant aroma but it's also available for auto-shipment via Chewy.com, adding a layer of convenience I greatly appreciate.
Outdoor Housing
This outdoor sleeping option for pigs is my top recommendation, reflecting my experience with my own pigs who live outdoors. It's durable, easy to clean, and retains value, offering a practical alternative to heavier, weather-susceptible wooden shelters. Made from polyurethane, it won't rot and its light weight allows for effortless relocation. For added weather protection, I suggest using freezer door flaps over the entrance and placing the hutch in a barn stall or shed for shield against wind and elements.
For indoor pig housing advice, I recommend exploring pet pig Facebook groups, as my expertise is in outdoor setups.
Enclosure/Fencing
Electro net fencing is an excellent choice for creating outdoor enclosures for pet pigs. It combines ease of installation, affordability, and effectiveness, making it an ideal, non-permanent fencing solution. To ensure its proper function, you'll need a copper grounding rod and an electric fence energizer rated at 0.07 Joules, in addition to the fencing itself. This setup not only keeps your pigs safely contained but also offers protection against various predators, ensuring a secure environment for your pets. The simplicity of setting up and taking down the fencing adds to its appeal, providing a versatile option for all your piggy enclosure needs.
Sorting Boards
Sorting boards are invaluable tools for pet mini pig owners, especially if you have pigs that tend to be assertive or bully others in the home, including visitors. These boards serve as a protective barrier, enabling you to safely redirect your pig's movement while shielding yourself from potential head swipes or bites. Available in various sizes and colors, sorting boards are designed with two distinct sides: one smooth and one with divots. For optimal functionality and to prevent pigs from using their snouts to grab hold and manipulate the board, it's crucial to always face the smooth side towards the pig. This ensures effective management and control, keeping both the pig and handler safe during interactions.
Weight Loss
For those looking to ensure their pet mini pigs maintain a healthy weight, the best and most proven diet has been created by Pig Luv Co., a pig sanctuary based in California. This diet is specifically tailored for overweight pigs, and following it closely can help your pig reach and maintain an ideal weight. For comprehensive details on this diet and guidance on how to implement it, I recommend visiting Pig Luv Co.'s website by tapping the image. There, you'll find all the information needed to provide your pet pig with the best possible nutrition.
Hoof Conditioner
For the care of pet mini pigs' hooves, I highly recommend using a product called Miracle Oil over traditional hoof conditioners. This oil is exceptionally efficient—a little application goes a long way. Its formulation not only conditions the hooves but also helps repel excess moisture, which is crucial since too much moisture can harm the hooves of our piggy companions. The product is packaged in a small bottle equipped with a dropper top, making the application process straightforward and mess-free. To apply, you only need 1-2 small drops at the point where the hairline meets the hoof wall, followed by a gentle rub with your finger to evenly distribute the oil. Miracle Oil is also versatile enough to be used on their pads, providing an all-around solution for your mini pig's foot care needs.