Breeders have often reported pigs breeding through multiple fences, so keep that in mind when looking at how far apart you have your males and females. It is always better to error on the side of caution and assume if they are unaltered they can breed. Females can become pregnant as early as 3 months. Males have been known to breed as early as 8 weeks old. INTACT PIGS: Males and females who are intact, should always be separated. Without quarantine protocol, contagious diseases and parasites can be brought in, infecting your existing pigs or herd. Click here for quarantine recommendations (LINK). QUARANTINE: Pigs should always be quarantined when coming into a home with other pigs for the safety of the residing pigs. Pigs should be kept safe from electrical cords that can be chewed, harmful chemicals, medications, other pets that could harm them (such as dogs), separated from other intact pigs, separate from any food storage (pantry or other pet food), and any other dangers that are in the typical household. Pigs should always be confined to a pig safe area unless the entire house is pig proofed. SAFETY: Containment is for the safety and welfare of the pigs. Set yourself up for success by providing adequate safety and enrichment for the pig’s time inside the house.

Pigs may need containment to keep them safe from indoor dangers, they may need separated to avoid pregnancy until a spay and neuter appointment is set, they may need separated for quarantine to avoid disease and parasite transmission, they may need separated until proper introductions have been done to integrate them into the established herd, or they may need separated from other pets in the house such as dogs. The method of containing the pig(s) indoors will depend on the situation and layout of the house. Pigs will not thrive with isolation or boredom. Most importantly, do not underestimate the pigs need for companionship. Do not underestimate a pig’s determination. Do not underestimate the risk of pregnancy. Do not underestimate the risk of disease. While rescuing pigs there are several cautions to keep everyone safe and healthy. Most pigs enjoy some time inside with their family.

Mail mini pig litter box issues