These super cute tiny creatures make the most adorable pets in the whole Universe. They are called “teacup” pigs because, as the name implies, when they are born, these piglets are so small that they can fit into a teacup. How lovely is that? Fancy a cup of piglets, darling? The teacup pigs do not belong to a specific breed, it’s just that some are born small and do not grow up to be as big as a normal pig. If you want to have them as a pet here are some fun facts about teacup pigs.
1. Recognizing a Teacup Pig
The teacup pig has many names: miniature pigs, micropigs or the mini pig. When they are born, they weigh about 9 ounces. These pigs are a combination of several pig breeds like the Kune Kune, the potbellied pig, the Tamworth pig and the Gloucester Old Spot. They come in different colors including white, black, silver, red, tan or rusty. Some teacup pigs are spotted with black, white or red. The average life span of a teacup pig is between five and twenty years.
2. The Size of a Teacup Pig
Although these special pigs are born very small they don’t stay that way for too long. The teacup pig can grow up to 16 inches in height and weigh 65 pounds or more. There are teacup pigs that reach 95 pounds. This is actually small compared to normal pigs which can grow up to weigh between 800 and 1,200 pounds. Imagine having a pig that big running around your living room. Luckily, the teacup piggies don’t get that big (or that fat).
3. Facts
If you’re thinking of getting a teacup pig, keep in mind that they need a lot of attention. Well, any pet does for that matter. The teacup pig work well for people who suffer from allergies because these pigs don’t have fur, they have bristle. They shed them in the summer and grow them back in winter. Just like their bigger brothers, the teacup pigs enjoy to roll in the mud but they also enjoy a good bath. They have straight tails, tusks and flat snouts. The teacup pig squeals, barks, honks and grunts.
4. How To Take Care of a Teacup Pig
These little pigs are very intelligent animals. They can be trained to use the litter box, but make sure it’s one with low sides so the piggy can enter and exit it. You can teach you pig to potty outside and walk it on a leash, just like a dog. Just like you would train a dog, use treats like vegetables and fruits. Your pig will love it. The teacup pig needs to have a small pool in which to bather and cool because they don’t sweat and can become overheated.
5. Considerations
On our list of fun facts about teacup pigs we need to mention that not every city allows teacup pigs because they consider it livestock and not house pets. You need to take them regularly to the vet, one who is specialized in treating pigs and livestock animals. Teacup pigs need to be spayed or neutered, just like you would do with a dog or a cat.
There are plenty of videos on Youtube with adorable teacup pigs. One of the most important fun fact about the teacup pig is that they love to have fun. They are very playful and bring a smile on everyone’s face when they do they little stunts with their little, stocky bodies. If you decide to get one, make sure you have it needs to take care of a teacup pig.