[norfolk newbies]

Hi Folks
Got a weird one here. Not seen anything like it before. One of our GOS weaners (7 weeks, just about to separate them from mum) has a large soft swelling under her stomach. Not noticed it before, so it would have had to come on in the last day or so.
She seems to be fine, mucking in with siblings for food an water, but it is obviously not right. Swelling is no hotter than the rest of her. I cannot see how it would be an injury ( no broken skin)
Will take her to vets tomorrow, but if anyone has any ideas they would be greatfully received.
( We are thinking twisted gut, but not sure if this is usual in piglets)
thanks
Jo

[Tala Orchard]

Has she been doing her business, if so would not think it to be a twisted gut, it could possibly be a hernia? hope that she will be fine and all goes well with the vet.

Tala

[Tudful Tamworths]

Sounds like an umbilical hernia. I had a gilt with one a few months ago. Appeared at about six weeks, but I put them outside at eight weeks and, within two days, it had disappeared.
Friends have had pigs with hernias which have stayed, but they have reached slaughter weight without any problems.

[norfolk newbies]

A hernia sounds about right....I would not be surprised at all, as it seemed flexible/palpable.
Is it worth taking her to vet, or would observation for another day be best ( to check on whether she can pass faeces etc?)
 
Thanks for prompt responses ( the twisted gut sounded awful and though the end was imminent!)
Jo
 

[Tala Orchard]

Personally as she is eating well and looking fine would observe for a few day as previous post if an umbilical hernia all should be fine just keep an eye on her for time being as vet can be very expensive.

Our last vet bill for a sow who had a bad delivery and only had two live piglets was over £130.00 which made them gold plated piggies....LOL

Best to observe.

Tala

[Tudful Tamworths]

How well do you get on with your vet(s)? The ones at the practice I use are always happy to have a chat over the phone. You might even be able to email a picture. Might save a call-out, and would also give you peace of mind.

[Fowgill Farm]

How well do you get on with your vet(s)? The ones at the practice I use are always happy to have a chat over the phone. You might even be able to email a picture. Might save a call-out, and would also give you peace of mind.

Good advice, i emailed a picture of a split teat to our vet and he gave advice by return, no charge.Result!
Mandy