Illustrated Articles
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Acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol, is an analgesic (pain reliever) and fever-reducing medication. It is used to treat pain and fever in dogs. It is used “off label” or “extra label” in some avian species, rabbits, miniature pigs, and some rodent species. Acetaminophen comes in capsule, tablet, or liquid suspension form. NEVER USE in cats or ferrets as it is potentially fatal at even miniscule doses.
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Atropine ophthalmic (brand name Isopto Atropine) is an eye medication used to dilate (enlarge) the pupil. It is used off label (extra label) only, in all veterinary species of animals. Atropine ophthalmic comes in a 1% drop, solution, or ointment form, which is placed directly into the eye.
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Mini-pigs are very social animals. Understanding their need for attention and their social interactions with the human family or another pet pig is essential to keeping your pet happy. Outdoor activities in a safe, fenced-in yard are helpful and enriching for your pet mini-pig.
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Like other pets and people, mini-pigs can suffer from numerous health problems including inner/middle ear infections, foot abnormalities, atrophic rhinitis, pneumonia, intestinal parasites and obesity. Obesity can lead to joint injury and arthritis. Mini-pigs may ingest inappropriate items leading to gastrointestinal tract blockages. If blockages are not dealt with quickly intestinal rupture and death may occur.
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Like other pets and people, mini-pigs may suffer from numerous health problems, including those associated with the urinary and reproductive tracts, eye health, melanoma, accidental poisoning, a bacterial disease called erysipelas, and an unusual disease called Dipity Pig.
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Pigs are omnivores that typically eat multiple small meals throughout the day. A mini-pig's base diet should consist of a commercially available, nutritionally balanced pelleted chow formulated for mini-pigs. Treats such as small pieces of succulent fruits or vegetables may be offered once or twice a day and are best used as rewards in training. Feeding guidelines are discussed.
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There are many breeds of miniature pigs, including the Vietnamese pot-bellied pig, Julianas, and KuneKunes. Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs typically live for 14-21 years. Mini-pigs should never be left alone unsupervised with even the friendliest dogs and cats. Mini-pigs are very smart and can be trained to walk on a leash/harness and to sit, stay, come, and retrieve objects.
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Mini-pigs may be housed successfully inside if they are given enough space, an area in which to root, and proper environmental enrichment. Ideally pet pigs should have access to a safe area of untreated lawn outside in which to root and chew on grass. Pet pigs generally like to urinate and defecate in a single area that is far from where they eat and sleep and can be trained to eliminate either inside and outside. Pigs in urban environments may be taught to walk on a leash/harness and go outside like dogs. If this is not feasible, they can be trained to use a litter pan indoors.
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Ketoprofen is given by mouth in the form of a capsule or tablet to treat pain and inflammation in dogs and horses. It’s use in animals is off label. Do not use this medication in pets that are allergic to it, or in pets concurrently using corticosteroids or other NSAIDs. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.
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Meloxicam (brand names Metacam, Meloxidyl, Loxicom, OroCAM) is given by mouth in the form of a liquid, capsule, or tablet to treat pain and inflammation in dogs, cats, and other small mammals. Do not use this medication in pets that are allergic to it, or in pets concurrently using corticosteroids or other NSAIDs. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.