Although potbellied pigs don’t have as much fur as cats and dogs, grooming is still necessary to keep the pigs feeling and looking their best. It is essential to maintain the condition of a potbellied pig’s skin, tusks, hooves, eyes and ears, ensuring that all parts remain healthy.
Follow these simple steps to properly groom your potbellied pig.
- Because potbellied pigs have naturally clean skin, they only need an occasional bath. To get rid of excess dirt, rinse your pig off with a garden hose.
- Adjust the temperature of the bathwater when bathing your pig, making sure it’s not too hot or cold.
- Take your pigs to a wading pool or large showering area for bathing. Scrub your pig with a grooming brush, applying a small amount of mild shampoo mixed with water.
- Use a damp cloth to eliminate crud in and around your potbellied pig’s eyes and eyelashes. Be sure to do this on a regular basis.
- When removing ear wax, use a damp cloth or Q-tips. Use extreme caution when cleaning out your pig’s ears.
- Pay attention to your pig’s tusks (if applicable) and monitor the growth. Your veterinarian should trim the tusks every few years.
- Keep your pig’s hooves groomed by trimming or filing with a large emery board or hoof trimmers. If you don’t feel comfortable trimming the hooves on your own, your vet can do also do this for you.
By following these grooming techniques, your potbellied pig will stay happy and healthy for years to come.