The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Pigs => Topic started by: piggy on January 03, 2009, 09:12:18 pm

Title: Pigs have stopped eating
Post by: piggy on January 03, 2009, 09:12:18 pm

Up until a few days ago when i used to take our 4 pigs their food they would rush up to me and couldnt wait to tuck in but now they are not really interested,they are are only eating a 1/4 of what they had before and just leave the rest,they seem the same in themselves didnt know if they have got bored with what we give them which is sow/weaner nuts or if they are ill and should call the vet out.

Thanks

Title: Re: Pigs have stopped eating
Post by: pigsatlesrues on January 03, 2009, 10:17:18 pm

It could just be the cold.  Feed them later when the sun comes out.  They would normally be drawn out then and stand and sun themselves.    They probably want to stay in where it is warm first thing.
If they have to come out for food because 'it is time' perhaps they are just feeling too cold to continue to eat.  It is important that they get their calories particulary this time of year, so shift your times a bit.

Let us know how they go.

Kate  :pig:

Title: Re: Pigs have stopped eating
Post by: Hilarysmum on January 04, 2009, 09:01:17 am

Apropos of Kate's posting is the arc big enough to feed them inside?  Or try soaking the nuts for half an hour in warm water.  It may be that they would prefer a warm soft feed at present.  Only other thing - is their water far from where you feed them, as it may be that the hard ground is discouraging them from walking so they dont drink as much as they should.  Hope this helps.