Vaccinations, Worms & Mites Protecting your pigs from disease and critters is important, but can be very confusing. There is a lot of contradictory information found online and many vets are not used to caring for mini pigs. That is why we have put together this info to help you on your pig journey.
After doing a lot of work with our veterinarian, we vaccinate our babies with Rhinishield TX4 Swine Vaccine. or use in healthy swine as an aid in the prevention of atrophic rhinitis caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica or the toxin of Pasteurella multocida types A & D, erysipelas and pneumonia caused by Pasteurella multocida
Worming Your Pig Worms are easily preventable. You should worm your pig approximately every 3-6 months, or a schedule your vet suggests. Here are a few products that you can use specifically for pigs.
What Are Mites? Mites are a type of tick that burrow under the skin and lays eggs. The eggs itch the pig and cause them to scratch. Their skin tends to be dry and flaky, more than usual. Their eyes also tend to water, and their skin has an orange color. They also tend to loose their hair on the sides from all of their scratching.
Where Do Mites Come From? Mites come from other animals. They are carried by squirrels, raccoons, other pigs, dogs, cats, etc. They tend to be worse during wet, warm weather. They can also just be carriers on your pig and will not any effect until your animal is stressed. Our vet states mites can live dormant beneath the skin until stressful times or change. Such as a new home, new family, adding another pig or pet. Your pig will leave here with 2 treatments for mites. This does not mean that an outbreak of mites will not happen due to change.
How Do You Treat Mites? Mites are treated with Ivermectin. The best way to administer Ivermectin is through a shot. However since most people are not comfortable administering shots, you can give it to your pig orally. There are many different brands of Ivermectin, below are a few of the more popular brands. To administer orally, you must measure it based on weight. For an oral dosage you should double the recommended injection dosage. Just add it to their food, or a spoonful of yogurt. You will need to give Ivermectin twice, 10-14 days apart, to kill the mite life-cycle.
Ivermectin takes a few days to to start eliminating mites. To start immediate relief you can give your pig a bath in Permethrin 10% (used in combination with Ivermectin). Permethrin can also be sprayed in sleeping areas & cages.