[DenisCooper]

One of our three sows this morning is very unhappy. It seems something with her back foot. Whenever she puts the tiniest bit of weight on what looks like the top of the toe (I’m sure they aren’t called toes) she is yelping in pain. She won’t let us anywhere near her and won’t even take her food. I was going to give her some metacalm which vets prescribed the other year as one of the others was limping. I’ve attempted to get some Terramycin on her foot too but can’t get close enough to her.

She was absolutely fine when we fed them
Last night.

Not sure what to do as I’ve never seen her in such a state.

[Richmond]

If she is in that much pain I would call the vet out tbh.  As I'm sure you are aware pigs can turn on you and give you a nasty bite when they are in pain even if they are normally quite placid. Get her penned up tight so she can be examined and treated safely.

[DenisCooper]

Thanks yes.

They are normally very friendly but with her been in so much pain yesterday and not wanting us by her we left her alone.

She seems in less pain today. Still lame though.

I’m going to see if she lets me by her tomorrow.

[harmony]

Don't know what happened to my post I couldn't read it so not sure if anyone else could.


An abscess would be very painful. If someone could distract when she's lying down, good rub or scratch, you might get a look. Use boards for safety.


There's pens and pens. A small pen and you will have to run round less but from what you say it still wont get you far. You need a v shape arrangement with a secure gate or hurdle. Put pig in then keep them in with a chain from the gate across to another secure gate/fence, across her backside. She can't go forward or back. She's be basically caught.


The other option is a pig snare, which the vet may have.

[DenisCooper]

Good idea. I’ll see if we can setup a pen where she doesn’t have to walk too much to get too.

[harmony]

Any news?

[DenisCooper]

Well today it seems like nothing wrong. I’ve checked a few times throughout the day and shes been out abs about.

She still seems a bit reluctant to put much pressure on it but she is much much better. Will keep an eye.

[alang]

Stones and hard ground can cause foot problems for pigs. Especially if the ground is frosty. Pigs nails are susceptible to splitting and can cause lots of problems too. Even another pig treading on the foot when they are laying down can do it.

Glad your pig seems happier now.