Pet Potbellied Pigs: Spay and Neuter

We highly recommend that pet potbellied pigs are spayed or neutered for a number of reasons. Here’s what you need to know about spay/neuter for pigs, including information on pigs and anesthesia as well as the cost of the procedure. 

Reasons to spay a female pig

Female pigs should be spayed for three main reasons. First, while piglets are mighty cute, they eventually grow up, and there are already too many adult potbellied pigs without homes. Some people see adorable piglets and take them home without considering how much that little piglet will eventually weigh, how much work will be required to care for the pig, and how long they’ll have to take care of the pig. (It could be 15 to 20 years.)

The second reason for spaying a female pig is to reduce the chance of aggressive behavior. Female pigs can exhibit aggressive behavior when they are in heat.  

And the third reason: Female pigs who are not spayed are extremely likely to develop uterine tumors at some point in their lives. Often, pigs who develop these tumors die from the tumors themselves or during surgery to remove the tumors. 

Reasons to neuter (castrate) a male pig

Male pigs should be neutered for five main reasons. The first two are the same as the first two reasons to spay female pigs: to prevent more homeless pigs and to reduce pig behavior issues. Male pigs who are not castrated are much more likely to exhibit aggressive behavior toward other pigs and people. Unneutered male pigs might also become overly amorous with things like sofas and chairs. Protect your furniture; neuter your pig.

The third reason is that a neutered pig is less likely to have the desire to roam and will be more content to stay at home with his people. Fourth, male pigs often develop testicular tumors if left unaltered. And fifth, unneutered male pigs tend to have a strong musky odor. 

Pigs and anesthesia

One caution when considering spaying or neutering your pig: Potbellied pigs are very sensitive to anesthesia, so surgery on them can be tricky. Any surgical procedure, including spaying or neutering, should be done by a veterinarian who is experienced in treating potbellied pigs and is comfortable with doing the surgery. 

Cost of neutering a pig

The cost of spaying or neutering a potbellied pig can vary quite a lot, so we can’t give specific dollar amounts. How much you pay to spay or neuter your pig depends on factors including the age of the pig, the size of the pig, the pig’s body condition, and whether there are any tumors. Talk to your pig veterinarian about spay/neuter costs.

Overall, spay/neuter is a win-win for both your pets and you, so please spay or neuter your potbellied pigs.