Signs of Sickness in Potbellied Pigs

As with other animals, potbellied pigs can’t tell us
when they’re sick, so it’s up to us to notice the signs
of health or illness. As you get to know your pig, you’ll
learn to recognize when your pig is feeling good and
when she’s feeling under the weather. Here are some
general things that may indicate signs of sickness:

• Loss of appetite (most pigs love to eat, so this
is often a sign that something’s wrong)

• Hair standing on end all over the pig’s body,
patchy hair loss, excessive itching

• Change in mood (such as increased
grumpiness) or lethargy


• Pig standing with his back hunched

• Absence of or difficulty urinating/defecating;
very dark, concentrated urine

• Limping or difficulty walking

• Discolored vaginal discharge

• Hemorrhage from eyes, ears, nose, rectum, vulva
• Coughing or nasal discharge

• High temperature (103 and up)

• Elevated respiration

Pigs can have a variety of health issues, so do your homework and research every
aspect of how to care for them. Health issues can be as simple as an ear infection or
as complicated as cancer. The most common health problems in potbellied pigs are
respiratory troubles and constipation. Wounds from fights with other pigs, dog attacks or
general injuries need to be assessed and tended to.
Arthritis is common in older pigs. It can result from a variety of causes, such as a pig
being overweight at one point or lack of adequate exercise. Unless a pig is in poor
physical condition, mild exercise will be beneficial. Try little walks several times a day.
Massage followed by range-of-motion exercises can help, too. You might also want to try
holistic care and supplements to ease the pain from arthritis. If your pig seems to be in a
lot of pain, talk to your veterinarian.