Educational Articles
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The most common skin problem in mini-pigs is dry skin that results from a dietary deficiency of fatty acids. In addition to dry skin, mini-pigs commonly suffer from sarcoptic mange, parakeratosis, yeast dermatitis, and sunburn. Hooves of mini-pigs grow continuously throughout life and need to be trimmed periodically. The canine teeth (tusks) of male pigs grow throughout life, while those of female pigs stop growing at about two years of age. Starting after the pig is about a year of age, your veterinarian will trim tusks during an examination.
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Thiamine (Vitamin B1) is used both as an injectable drug and an oral vitamin supplement to prevent or treat thiamine deficiency in various species, including dogs, cats, horses, cattle, small ruminants, and pigs.
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Just like other pets, mini-pigs should have a complete veterinary check-up after they are acquired and then annually after that. Your pig may need to be sedated for examination. Your veterinarian will determine the vaccines that are advisable for your pig, based on your pig's potential exposure to pathogens, breeding status, and geographic location. An analysis of your pig's feces should be performed annually to check for gastrointestinal parasites. Pet pigs should be screened for mites through a skin scraping. Veterinarians also will often help pig owners with hoof care and tusk trimming. Neutering of males and spaying of females is recommended for all pigs.
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Vitamin E and selenium are essential nutrients with antioxidant properties that work together to prevent oxidative damage and support the immune system. They are used in animals to treat skin diseases, liver disease, cognitive dysfunction, and dietary deficiencies.
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Compounded medications are not approved by federal authorities. They are medications that have been altered to provide more accurate dosing or easier administration. They have not been tested for safety, stability, potency, or efficacy.