What do Pot Belly Pigs Eat?
Pot belly pigs have become popular pets in many households across America. These small, intelligent animals make wonderful companions, but feeding them properly can be confusing for new owners. If you love to go through about what different animals eat, take a look at the following:
If you’ve recently welcomed one of these adorable animals into your home, or are considering it, you might be wondering: what do pot belly pigs eat So, What Do They has prepared this blog so you can learn how to make your pot belly pigs happy!
Natural Diet of Pot Belly Pigs
In the wild, pot belly pigs are natural foragers. They use their strong snouts to dig through soil and vegetation in search of food. Their natural diet consists of:
- Roots
- Tubers
- Grasses
- Leaves
- Berries
- Nuts
- Insects
- Small animals
- Carrion (occasionally)
This varied diet provides them with the wide range of nutrients they need. Understanding what pot belly pigs eat in nature helps us provide better diets for our pet pigs.
Commercial Pig Feed Basics
The foundation of a pet pot belly pig’s diet should be a high-quality commercial pig feed. Not all pig feeds are created equal, though. What do pot belly pigs eat in terms of commercial food?
The best commercial feeds for pot belly pigs are:
- Mini-pig specific pellets: These are specially formulated for pot belly and other miniature pigs
- Low protein content: Look for feeds with 12-14% protein (NOT standard hog feed which is too high in protein)
- High fiber content: At least 12% fiber is ideal
Most adult pot belly pigs should eat about 1-2% of their body weight in commercial feed daily. For a 100-pound pig, that’s 1-2 pounds of feed. However, this can vary based on your pig’s age, activity level, and health needs.
Fresh Foods for Pot Belly Pigs
In addition to commercial feed, what do pot belly pigs eat in terms of fresh foods? Fresh fruits and vegetables should make up about 25% of your pig’s diet. Good options include:
Vegetables (can be offered daily)
- Leafy greens (kale, spinach, lettuce)
- Carrots
- Bell peppers
- Cucumbers
- Zucchini
- Broccoli
- Cabbage (in moderation)
- Green beans
- Celery
Fruits (limit to small amounts as treats)
- Apples (no seeds)
- Berries
- Bananas
- Melons
- Pears
- Oranges
When introducing new foods to your pot belly pig’s diet, do so gradually to avoid digestive upset. Always wash produce thoroughly and cut it into appropriate sizes to prevent choking.
Foods to Avoid
What do pot belly pigs eat that could be harmful? There are several foods that should never be fed to pot belly pigs:
Never Feed Your Pig:
- Chocolate
- Onions and garlic
- Meat or meat by-products
- Raw potatoes
- Avocado pits and skin
- Bread or pasta
- Dairy products
- Processed human foods
- Raw kidney beans
- Alcohol
These foods can cause serious health problems or even be toxic to your pig.
Special Dietary Needs by Age
What do pot belly pigs eat at different life stages? Their nutritional needs change throughout their lives:
Piglets (0-3 months)
- Higher protein feed (16-18%)
- Multiple small meals daily
- Gradually introduce vegetables
- Ensure adequate calcium for bone growth
Juvenile Pigs (3-18 months)
- Transition to 14-16% protein feed
- Twice daily feeding
- Increasing variety of vegetables
- Monitor growth rate
Adult Pigs (18 months+)
- Lower protein feed (12-14%)
- Once or twice daily feeding
- Plenty of vegetables
- Watch for weight gain
Senior Pigs (7+ years)
- Easy-to-chew foods
- Possibly higher fiber content
- Supplements as recommended by your vet
- Smaller, more frequent meals if needed
Healthy Treats for Pot Belly Pigs
What do pot belly pigs eat as treats? While treats should make up no more than 5% of your pig’s diet, they’re great for training and bonding. Healthy options include:
- Unsalted nuts (in very small amounts)
- Dried fruits (no added sugar)
- Fresh berries
- Small pieces of banana
- Plain air-popped popcorn
- Cheerios (plain, unsweetened)
Remember that pot belly pigs are prone to obesity, so treats should be given sparingly.
Water Needs
Fresh, clean water is crucial to your pig’s health. What do pot belly pigs eat isn’t the only important dietary consideration – hydration matters too! Make sure your pig always has access to clean water. An average adult pot belly pig drinks 1-3 gallons of water daily, depending on size, activity level, and weather.
Common Feeding Problems
Even when you know what do pot belly pigs eat, you might encounter some challenges:
Obesity
Pot belly pigs gain weight easily and struggle to lose it. Maintain proper portions and limit treats.
Begging
Pigs are smart and can become persistent beggars. Establish and maintain feeding routines.
Selective Eating
Some pigs become picky eaters. Introduce new foods gradually and be patient.
Food Aggression
Some pigs may guard their food. Feed your pig separately from other pets and family members.
Supplements for Pot Belly Pigs
Depending on your pig’s specific needs, supplements might be beneficial:
- Joint supplements: Glucosamine for older pigs
- Vitamin E and selenium: For skin and overall health
- Biotin: For hoof health
- Probiotics: For digestive health
Always consult with a veterinarian experienced with pot belly pigs before adding supplements to your pig’s diet.
So the Answer to What do Pot Belly Pigs Eat is…
A balanced diet of quality commercial feed, fresh vegetables, limited fruits, and occasional treats will give your pig the nutrition it needs. Understanding what do pot belly pigs eat is crucial for keeping your pet healthy and happy. Remember that each pig is unique, and you may need to adjust your pig’s diet based on its age, weight, health status, and activity level.
Regular weigh-ins and veterinary check-ups can help ensure your feeding program is working well. With proper nutrition and care, your pot belly pig can live a long, healthy life of 12-20 years as a beloved member of your family. By providing what pot belly pigs eat naturally and nutritionally, you’re setting your pet up for the best possible life.
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