Why is my pig shaking and can’t stand up?

Answered by Randy McIntyre

I’m really sorry to hear that your pig is shaking and having trouble standing up. It must be quite distressing to see your pig in this state. It’s important to try and understand what could be causing these symptoms so that you can take appropriate action.

One possibility is that your pig is infected with a virus from the pestivirus family. These viruses are known to infect young pigs and can cause a range of symptoms, including involuntary shaking. In some cases, affected piglets are referred to as “shaker pigs” or “dancing pigs” due to the tremors they experience.

The tremors caused by this virus can be quite severe, to the point where affected piglets are unable to nurse properly. This can lead to starvation and further complications if not addressed promptly. It’s crucial to monitor your pig closely and ensure that it is able to feed adequately despite the shaking.

In order to confirm whether or not the virus is the cause of your pig’s symptoms, it would be advisable to consult a veterinarian. They will be able to conduct a thorough examination and possibly run tests to identify the specific virus involved. This will help determine the best course of action for treatment and management.

While waiting for veterinary assistance, there are a few steps you can take to support your pig. Make sure that it has access to clean and comfortable bedding, as well as fresh water and nutritious food. Keep the environment warm and draft-free to help alleviate any discomfort caused by the trembling.

Additionally, it’s important to isolate the affected pig from other healthy animals to prevent the spread of the virus. Quarantine measures can help contain the infection and minimize its impact on the rest of your herd.

Remember, I’m not a veterinarian, so it’s crucial to seek professional advice for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The veterinarian will be able to provide you with personalized guidance based on the specific situation of your pig. I hope your pig gets the care it needs and recovers soon.