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Minipigs + English

  • 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.

  • Fluconazole is an antifungal medication used off label in cats, dogs, and small mammals to treat fungal infections, especially those in the brain and spinal cord. It is given by mouth in the form of a tablet or liquid suspension and is also available as an injection for hospital use. It should be used with caution in pets with liver or kidney disease, or pregnant or lactating pets.

  • Furosemide is given by mouth or injection and is used on and off label to treat many conditions, including congestive heart failure and fluid retention. Common side effects include increased urination, diarrhea, or constipation. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or in those that are unable to make urine.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Hydrocortisone otic is a steroid medication used to treat topical inflammation of the ears in pets. It is often combined with antibiotics and comes as a liquid solution applied within the ear canal.

  • Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) topical is used for the management of skin conditions such as wounds, abscesses, cuts, abrasions, skin irritations, ulcers, post-surgical incision sites, and burns. It may be used to prevent or treat bacterial skin infections, including methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Hypochlorous acid also has antifungal and antiviral properties and is reported to reduce inflammation, pain, and itching.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Midazolam is a benzodiazepine used for its sedative, anti-anxiety, and muscle relaxant properties. It is primarily used as a sedative before surgery and to stop seizures. It is used “off label” or “extra label” in animals. This medication is a controlled substance primarily given via injection by your veterinary team, though it may be prescribed to your pet for intranasal or intrarectal administration at home.