Mini Pig Health Issues Every Owner Should Know.

Symptoms, Causes & Simple Solutions for a Healthy, Happy Pig

Mini pigs are smart, affectionate, and generally hardy, but like any pet, they’re prone to certain health issues that every pig parent should be aware of. Knowing how to spot early symptoms and take quick action can make all the difference in keeping your piglet safe and thriving.

At SoCal Mini Pigs, we’ve compiled the most common mini pig health concerns, how to recognize them, and what to do if your pig isn’t feeling their best.

1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Symptoms:

• Frequent or strained urination

• Blood-tinged or strong-smelling urine

• Lethargy or restlessness

• noticing sediment in your female pigs urine

Causes:Often from dehydration, dirty bedding, or imbalanced nutrition.

Treatment:

• Vet-prescribed antibiotics (typically a dose of antibiotics help this right away)

• Increase water intake (consider flavoring water with apple juice)

• Clean bedding daily

• Consider cranberry supplements made for pigs

2. Pig Rust (Dry, Flaky, Orange Skin)

Symptoms:

• Orange or rust-colored residue

• Flaky skin, itching

Causes:Dry skin, vitamin/mineral deficiencies, lack of sunlight.

Treatment:

• Avocado oil, extra virgin olive oil, Coconut oil or pig-safe moisturizer

• Multivitamin made for pigs

• Check for mites or mange if symptoms persist (if really red and itchy, may be mites)

3. Dippity Pig Syndrome

Symptoms:

• Sudden weakness or collapse in the hind legs

• Arched back, squealing when touched

• Resolves in 24–72 hours

Causes: Likely stress-related, over heated, not enough shade if outside or viral, most common in younger pigs.

Treatment:

• Keep pig calm and quiet

• Avoid back contact

• Provide soft bedding and hydration

• You can give Benadryl to keep your pig calm

• Contact vet if symptoms last beyond 72 hours

4. Salt Toxicity (Salt Poisoning)

Symptoms:

• Confusion, seizures, head pressing

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Sudden death in severe cases

Causes: Ingesting salty food or lack of water access.

Treatment: EMERGENCY – seek vet immediately

• Slowly rehydrate with small sips of water

• Vet-administered IV fluids may be necessary

Prevention:

• Never feed processed human food with salt

• Ensure clean, fresh water is always available

• Add electrolytes during hot days

5. Constipation & Intestinal Blockages

Symptoms:

• No stool or straining

• Hard belly

• Loss of appetite

Causes: Low-fiber diet, dehydration, or ingestion of non-digestible items.

Treatment:

• I tell my customers to smash up some watermelon in a bowl with warm water and add a tablespoon of olive oil, then give to your pig for hydration and to get things moving.

• Pure canned pumpkin

• More water + electrolytes

• Light exercise, belly massage

• Always add water when feeding pellets to keep hydrated (some pigs will only eat dry pellets FYI)

• Vet evaluation if no improvement in 24 hours

6. Overweight Mini Pigs

Symptoms:

• Low energy, waddling

• Difficulty walking or breathing

• Fat rolls over the eyes or rear

• Entropian (eyelids roll in, eyelashes rub on eyes)

Causes: Overfeeding, lack of exercise, too many treats.

Treatment:

• Measure food portions based on age/weight

• Reduce fruit and high-calorie treats

• Encourage daily play or walks

• Monitor weight monthly

• Make sure pig doesn't have unlimited access to grass or hay (which cause weight gain)

7. Underweight Mini Pigs

Symptoms:

• Visible spine or ribs

• Lack of energy

• Loss of muscle tone

Causes: Inadequate diet, parasites, or underlying health conditions.

Treatment:

• Feed high-quality pig pellets twice daily (1 full cup of pellets, twice a day for adults)

• Add healthy snacks (oats, veggies, eggs)

• Deworm if needed

• Check teeth—poor dentition can limit eating

• Vet visit for full health check

8. Arthritis

Symptoms:

• Limping or stiffness

• Slow to get up or lie down

• Hesitation to walk or play

Causes: Common with aging, obesity, or old injuries.

Treatment:

• Joint supplements (glucosamine + chondroitin)

• Soft bedding and warm shelter

• Gentle movement and controlled exercise

• Vet-prescribed anti-inflammatory medication

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint stress

9. Mange (Sarcoptic Mites)

Symptoms:

• Intense itching

• Crusty, thick skin

• Hair loss

Causes: Highly contagious mite infestation.

Treatment:

• Ivermectin (oral or injection) 0.2ml per every 10 lbs of body weight

• Disinfect all bedding and surfaces

• Repeat treatment in 10–14 days

10. Hoof Problems & Lameness

Symptoms:

• Limping, sore legs

• Cracked or overgrown hooves

Causes:L ack of regular trimming, hard terrain, poor diet.

Treatment:

• Trim hooves every 3–6 months

• Provide varied terrain (dirt + soft straw)

• Hoof care treatment for cracks

• Add biotin or hoof health supplements if needed

Proactive Pig Health Tips

✔ Fresh water 24/7

✔ Balanced pellet diet + veggies

✔ Clean bedding & daily area checks

✔ Deworm regularly (every 4-6 months)

✔ Daily exercise + enrichment

✔ Annual vet checkups

When to Call the Vet

Mini pigs are stoic and often hide pain. If your pig shows signs of discomfort, appetite loss, or abnormal behavior, don’t wait—early care can be life-saving.