The popularity of Teacup Pigs Teacup pigs have been gaining a lot of popularity in recent times. Many celebrities have owned these pigs and hence, these mini creatures are getting admiration. Their appearance and actions are unignorable and they will become your best companions. Lifespan and Size Teacup pigs live for 12-18 years, depending on their body’s condition and physical strength. There are different varieties of pot-bellied pigs and have classification as per their size. The breeders generally name them as ‘teacup pigs’ because they have a smaller size than the farm versions of the pigs. The height and weight of pigs is a factor in determining their body’s status. Make sure that the pig you’re purchasing is not malnourished or underfed to achieve that appearance. The pigs will grow in size until three years of their age. The pig can have a maximum weight of 100 pounds and size similar to a medium-level dog. The lifespan of the pigs will be reduced only to a few years if they are not fed properly or the breeding is done inappropriately. There is much debate in the world of pigs and their associated breeders. There are many varieties of pigs having a small size and knowing about your pig in detail is important to keep them in good health. Appropriate Diet for Pigs Pigs can be overfed easily as they always demand food. Many fully-grown potbellied pigs become obese due to overeating. There are some key signs that the pig is going out of the track. Your vet will help in determining the right size for your pig as per its height and body condition. Piglets must be taken from the breeder only after they become 4 weeks old. They can be given pig food or seasonal fruits/vegetables as per the instructions by the breeder and their veterinary expert. There are certain starchy vegetables and sweet fruits which are not preferred for the pigs. There are basic guidelines to feed your adult potbellied pig: Low fat, protein and high fiber food (bran or hay) Non-starchy vegetables and less sugary fruits Multivitamin (chewable) as referred by the veterinary expert Untreated soil for rooting, containing iron and selenium Remember, overfeeding can be dangerous for the pig. Don’t feed them with cat or dog food as it will not work out for them. General caring tips Potbellied pigs are indoor animals but require time for rooting and running outside. It will help them in amusement and prevent many health issues. Pigs living indoors have to be treated like toddlers. They need a sleeping box and special blankets for playing and cuddling. In the case of any indifferent activity or condition, take your pig to the veterinary doctor and discuss the same. Potty train your dog for a clean house and pet Indoor rooting for the pig is feasible with 2-3 blankets for them to move around and rest. All the pigs should be spayed and neutered for keeping at home. It is a small surgical procedure and could be done before bringing the pet home.
Legalization of Mini Pigs Pigs are into the category of livestock as per the USDA City Governments. It is essential for the owners to check the government regulations before bringing the pet to your home. Many cities don’t allow the pig within the city bounds and others might pose some restrictions over the number of pigs, weight, and vaccination requirements. You can contact your local municipal offices to look for the animal ordinances by keeping in mind the livestock regulations. If the city in which you live is not zoned for a pig, you can make attempts to get the ordinances changed and the city council can consider it for an update. Contact the city council to take steps for the reformation of the pet laws. Steps to request you for changes in city zoning ordinances: It is the most important step to check the city’s zoning council before bringing them home. Once any law is violated, the officials become very strict and you might have to lose your little pet forever. It is never too late to stand for your pet and request the authorities for the alteration in guidelines. The pig has to be neutered/spayed for hygienic purposes and given proper shelter or bedding to stay at home. Read the city’s zone ordinance to understand what all is allowed in your state and move according to the given information. Get support from the documents, as possible. It will help you to get the legalized way to get your pig home. There is an official request for amendment of the zoning ordinance regarding mini pigs as the pets. There are some individuals set up for the city laws, including the City Secretary, the City Manager, City Administrator, and Planning Committee. They must schedule the meeting with City Council for the proposal review. Once the amendment is proposed, the authorities will approve or deny the changes. In case of the approval, you can easily keep the pet within the city laws. In the rarest case if there is a denial of the application, ask for the reasons for its denial. The information can be reassessed for presentation. The city’s zoning ordinances are supportive documents for submission of the proposal. The best you can do is to check out the ordinance code and put your heart into it. Check the facts about the pigs and register your mini pig as a pet at the American Mini Pig Association. Your letter from the veterinarian will be very powerful and include the essential aspects of keeping the pig home. Pigs can be accommodated in the home as well as small apartments. Make up your mind well and know about the pigs to discuss the tiny pigs. Gather the statistics of your city and the neighboring locations to know about the pig rules and request your city council to implement the same. It is advisable to keep your pig in a legal way to avoid any hassles later on.