Pet pigs aren’t garbage disposals — feeding them junk leads to obesity, skin problems, and short life spans. Whether you have a mini pig, pot-bellied pig, or farm pig as a companion animal, here’s what you actually need to feed them.

1. What Should Pet Pigs Eat?

Pigs are omnivores, which means they eat both plants and animal-based foods. But pet pigs need a controlled, balanced diet to stay healthy — not random scraps or leftovers.

Core Diet:

  • Commercial Pig Pellets
    Specially formulated mini pig or pot-bellied pig food is your base. It contains the right balance of:

    • Protein (12–16%)

    • Fiber

    • Essential vitamins and minerals
      ✅ Brands to look for:

    • Mazuri Mini Pig Feed

    • Manna Pro Potbellied Pig Feed

    • Purina Nature’s Match Sow & Pig

Fresh Veggies (25–35% of diet):

  • Leafy greens (lettuce, kale, spinach)

  • Carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers

  • Zucchini, celery, green beans

Occasional Fruits (treats only):

  • Apples (no seeds)

  • Berries

  • Bananas

  • Melon
    🍎 Keep it limited — too much sugar leads to obesity.

Clean Water:

Fresh water should always be available. Pigs can dehydrate fast, especially in summer.

2. What to Avoid

  • Dog/cat food – Too high in protein and fat

  • Processed human food – Chips, bread, pasta, etc.

  • Salty or sugary foods

  • Avocados, chocolate, caffeine, onions, garlic – Toxic

  • Corn-heavy pig feed for livestock – Can fatten up pet pigs too fast

3. Feeding Schedule

  • Young pigs (under 6 months):
    2–3 small meals per day

  • Adults:
    2 meals a day — controlled portions (overfeeding is a killer)

How much?
Use body weight as a guide:
🟢 1–2% of body weight in pellets per day, plus veggies

Example:
A 40 lb pig = ~0.5–0.75 lbs of pellets daily, split into two meals

4. Signs You’re Feeding Right

✅ Healthy weight (waist visible from above)
✅ Smooth skin and hair
✅ Active and curious behavior
✅ Regular, firm poop

Too fat? You’ll notice:

  • Hanging belly

  • Slow movement

  • Joint problems

  • Shorter lifespan

5. Supplements (if needed)

  • Biotin/Zinc – For skin and hooves if problems arise

  • Vitamin E/Selenium – Only if recommended by a vet

  • Fiber (like pumpkin) – Helps with constipation

Always ask a vet before adding supplements.

Bottom Line:
Feed your pig a controlled diet of quality pig pellets, veggies, and limited fruit, with constant access to water. Don’t treat them like a trash can — treat them like a smart, sensitive pet that needs real care.