The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Pigs => Topic started by: A Jackson on November 15, 2012, 04:45:43 pm

Title: Barry the Saddleback has a cough
Post by: A Jackson on November 15, 2012, 04:45:43 pm
Hello all,
 
One of my pair of 4 month old saddlebacks has developed a dry cough. First time this has happened in 4 years of fattening weaners...however this is the first time I have gone for over-wintering. Is an easily diagnosed condition, and if so can it be easily/cheaply treated??
 
Many thanks
Title: Re: Barry the Saddleback has a cough
Post by: Fowgill Farm on November 15, 2012, 05:21:26 pm
A cough can be several things.
Worms, pneumonia or too dry straw.
Was he wormed when you got him at 8wks old, if not i would worm him for good measure, won't do any harm might do him some good.
2nd check his temperature (should be 38.8c or 102f) and general demeanour, is he eating? lethargic? High temp suggest pneumonia needs antibiotics on a NOW basis.
3rd check his throat for obstructions and rub under his chin down his neck, could just be dry straw or something gone down the wrong way.
Check his siblings - coffs & sneezes spreads dizeezes!
I am not a vet and can only offer advice on the info you give, if he is in any pain or duress get your vet to him asap which is what i'm sure you would do.
HTH
mandy :pig:
Title: Re: Barry the Saddleback has a cough
Post by: Greenerlife on November 16, 2012, 03:28:31 pm
Sounds like sound advice from Fowgill Farm there.  I am just entranced by the name Barry, for a pig!  Hope Barry gets better soon.