Food & NutritionWhat are good toys for pigs & how to care for a pregnant pig?
Pigs are natural rooters and puzzle solvers, so anything that involves nosing around with or digging in will be fun. Giant rubber balls (like the kind you see horses playing with) treats hanging from a chain, places to dig and more can all help encourage some playfulness and enrich the environment.
Pregnant pigs should be up to date on any needed vaccines in your area prior to breeding, and should be fed a diet appropriate for enough nutrition for growing piglets and nursing them after birth. A growing or lactation diet is best for mom to prevent nutrient deficiencies during these high-energy periods. Signs of problems that warrant a call to the vet are lethargy, loss of appetite, failure to gain weight, or struggling to stand/move around.
Depending on your production style, most pregnant sows are crated or kept in a special birthing pen that allows piglets to safely move away from mom without having her accidentally lay on or step on babies. Providing a heat lamp for the babies to come to and move away from is also useful after birth. When your sow is closer to labor you may see waxing from her nipples (a waxy, milky like substance that isn't milk) that indicate she is nearing labor. Making sure she has comfortable bedding, access to food and water, and safety for the piglets to get to is best.
Updated on September 24th, 2025
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