When fed a healthy, balanced diet, some mini pigs require no supplements at all. However, there are many who may need at least one or two supplements for specific, health-related reasons and to prevent common diseases, even when fed the “perfect” diet.
The best part about micro pig supplements is that they are easy to find and inexpensive. Moreover, many of the nutrients found in these supplements can be inserted into your pig’s diet through additional vegetables, reducing the need for some supplements over time.
#1: Vitamin E
Vitamin E is one of the most highly recommended supplements for teacup pigs because it pairs with selenium to keep your pet healthy. A lack of vitamin E in your pig’s diet can cause potentially fatal diseases, making it all the more important.
Because vitamin E is so important, it’s vital that you use this supplement regardless of what you’re feeding your pig. Even in pig-specific food, vitamin E levels may vary and for this reason, it’s one supplement you can’t overlook.
Dosage: Micro pigs should take one, 400 IU capsule daily. You may also want to increase your pig’s intake of kale and broccoli, as both are high in vitamin E.
#2: Selenium
Selenium works with vitamin E to prevent disease, making it another essential nutrient in any micro pig diet.
Dosage: Micro pigs should take one, 150-300 mcg dose of selenium once every week.
#3: Multivitamin
General nutritional deficiencies can cause real problems over time. Typically, this occurs due to a lack of proper levels of essential nutrients whether due to the food you choose or your pig’s picky appetite.
In many cases, a multivitamin isn’t necessary. This is especially true if you’re feeding your pet a high-quality feed with a variety of vegetables. However, if you do choose to supplement with a multivitamin, reach for a children’s multivitamin.
Dosage: Micro pigs should take one children’s multivitamin daily, if necessary.
#4: Coconut Oil
Just like coconut oil is good for our hair and skin, it’s good for micro pigs as well. You can choose to administer coconut oil topically or put it in your pig’s food – or both provided that you remain within the recommended daily dosage.
Dosage: Micro pigs should take 1 tablespoon of coconut oil for every 25 pounds of weight, if necessary. You can add it into food or freeze the oil and feed it as a treat. You may also massage coconut oil into your pig’s skin for topical use.
#5: Fish Oil
Similar to coconut oil, fish oil also offers many beneficial properties for skin and hair health along with reducing inflammation and boosting immune function. For pigs, it’s best that the fish oil you use has as few ingredients as possible.
Dosage: Micro pigs should take 100 to 150 mg EPA and DHA per 10 pounds of weight every day.
#6: Canned Pumpkin
Pumpkin may not be a supplement per se but it’s still an important nutrient to add into your pig’s diet. In fact, 100 percent pure pumpkin can relieve constipation if your micro pig is experiencing any digestive issues. Most often, owners use pumpkin if their pet has had surgery and bowel functioning is compromised and is only necessary for a short period of time.
Dosage: Use as needed.
Supplements are Essential to Micro Pig Health, Just Like for Humans
Humans take supplements to make up for nutritional deficiencies and maintain health and now, you can do the same for your micro pig.
While vitamin E and selenium are considered two “non-negotiable” supplements, the others on this list can be used as needed. When you do, you’ll ensure your treasured pet lives the long, healthy life you want them to.