My mini pig died and I don't know why...
It is tough to lose any pet, but, mini pigs tend to take a small piece of your heart with them when they pass away. This seems to hurt even more if death occurs suddenly without explanation. If your mini pig dies suddenly, it is recommended that a necropsy be done to determine the cause of death. If this isn't possible, you may never know what the true cause of death was, but we hope to be able to bring you some closure by listing the most common causes of sudden death in pigs. There are times when there is no scientific explanation, bad things happen to good people and great pig parents. Stay on top of symptoms of illness, take your mini pig to the vet should you notice abnormal behavior or anything alarming.
Mycotoxicosis
Pig feed, particularly cereals, and bedding (straw, hay), are frequently contaminated with small fungi which produce toxins both while the crop is growing and after it has been harvested and is being stored. The main culprits of fungi involved are aspergillus spp, claviceps spp, fusarium spp, and penicillin spp.
These fungi produce a range of toxins under the right conditions for multiplication, Two of these, aflatoxin and ochratoxin, suppress the immune system and also the appetite. Growth slows substantially. Fumonisin, one of the other mycotoxins, also causes immunosuppression, but what most clinicians see is the pulmonary edema and resulting pulmonary symptoms. The toxins, called trichothecenes, including T-2 and deoxynivalenol (DON), which used to be called vomitoxin, cause gastroenteric signs including weakening of the rectal wall, which may result in a rectal prolapse. The famous ergot alkaloids are mycotoxins. They will cause gangrene of the ears, tails and teats.
To control the dangers of mycotoxicosis, you should be sure to inspect feed regularly and safely discard and moldy feed. Wet straw which has been allowed to dry in bunches or bales should never be used as litter for ANY pig.
Pig feed, particularly cereals, and bedding (straw, hay), are frequently contaminated with small fungi which produce toxins both while the crop is growing and after it has been harvested and is being stored. The main culprits of fungi involved are aspergillus spp, claviceps spp, fusarium spp, and penicillin spp.
These fungi produce a range of toxins under the right conditions for multiplication, Two of these, aflatoxin and ochratoxin, suppress the immune system and also the appetite. Growth slows substantially. Fumonisin, one of the other mycotoxins, also causes immunosuppression, but what most clinicians see is the pulmonary edema and resulting pulmonary symptoms. The toxins, called trichothecenes, including T-2 and deoxynivalenol (DON), which used to be called vomitoxin, cause gastroenteric signs including weakening of the rectal wall, which may result in a rectal prolapse. The famous ergot alkaloids are mycotoxins. They will cause gangrene of the ears, tails and teats.
To control the dangers of mycotoxicosis, you should be sure to inspect feed regularly and safely discard and moldy feed. Wet straw which has been allowed to dry in bunches or bales should never be used as litter for ANY pig.
Plant poisoning
Arum Maculatum- known as cuckoo-pint or lords and ladies. It has long dark green stems with yellowish-green leaves and red berries. The white tuberous roots are what causes problems with pigs. They are an intense irritant and cause acute gastritis and vomiting. Later pigs will have diarrhea followed by death shortly thereafter. There is no specific treatment known, but demulcents are advised.
Beta Vulgaris
These are the root family that includes the sugar beet, fodder beet, mangles, turnips, etc. They are not toxic to pigs. Unlike ruminants, pigs do not seem to be highly affected by excess oxalates. However, problems arise in pigs if these roots are cooked and allowed to cool in the cooking water. Nitrates and nitrites are released which are toxic. The resulting compound does not exchange oxygen. Pigs turn blue, convulse, rapidly decline and die of asphyxia. The known antidote is intravenous methylene blue, but this isn't always effective.
Buxus Sempervirens
This is box, a common evergreen shrub used as a hedge plant. It typically flowers in April with white flowers. ALL parts of the plant are toxic. The alkaloid boxing is thought to be the active principle. Pigs are highly susceptible to poison by box leaves. They will vomit and show signs of acute abdominal pain. This is commonly followed by blood diarrhea and acute respiratory symptoms. Death rapidly follows.
Conium Maculatum
This is hemlock. When consumed in small quantities by breeding sows, they tend to give birth to piglets with cleft palate. Normally, pigs do not consume enough to cause toxicity.
Daphne Mezerum
This is a dwarf bay tree which is sometimes called the spurge olive. It is most commonly found in the UK. The flowers are pink and arrive in clusters early in the spring. The problem with these trees are the red berries. They are extremely irritant. Only a couple of berries can cause death in a mature pig. The initial symptoms are vomiting caused by acute gastritis. This is followed by collapse and death. The actual toxin hasn't been identified and there is no known treatment though demulcents like raw egg and milk are suggested.
Hyoscyamus Niger
The universal name for hid plant is henbane. Its is both an annual and biennial. It os covered with hairs and has a foul/unpleasant smell. It has coarsely lobed, large radial leaves with shirt stalks. The yellowish-white flowers have a purple colored eye. It is the thick, large white root which poisons pigs. The active toxins are hyoscyamine, hyoscine and atropine. The plant used to be grown as a medicine. Pigs will have dilated pupils and dry mouths before going into convulsions. The treatment for this is Morphine at 1mg/kg IM to not only control the convulsions, but also to act as an emetic. There is a chance of recovery of they can be kept warm and safe during the acute phases of poisoning.
Iris Foetidissima
This is the stinking iris which is often called the roast beef plant. It is an erect perennial with dark green leaves. It has violet blue flowers which become bright scarlet seeds. It is again the root which causes problems for pigs. When ingested, pigs become prostrate and then tend to have violent dysentery. Demulcents are the recommended treatment and chances of recovery are good.
Lycoperiscon Esculentum
This is the common tomato and the fruit is not toxic to pigs. However, the stems and shoot are toxic. Pigs can become poisoned by rooting through gardens. The principle toxin is solanine. Pigs become depressed and if enough was eaten, they will become laterally recumbent and death will follow. The traditionally remedy is actually strong sweet tea. Ideally, you would be able to get your pig to drink this, but if not, you must take precautions to avoid aspiration pneumonia by force feeding. By the same principle, green potato plants contain the same toxin and should be safely discarded as well.
Nicotiana Tabacum
The tobacco plant is very toxic to pigs. The active toxin, nicotine, will cause rapid death even if ingested in relatively small amounts.
Oenanthe Crocata
This is a water dropwort, also called a water hemlock. It's found in marshy areas. It is a strong perennial plant with a branched hollow stem which has grooves on the outside. It has very divided compound leaves and white flowers, which are umbels, that are seen around mid summer. The problem with this plant is the root stock. These are thick pale yellow tubers, often referred to as "dead man's fingers." The roots are brought to the surface by dredging or even by a rooting pig. The active toxin is oenathetoxin. The roots remain toxic even after they dry out. They're also extremely potent. Pigs only require a small amount before going into convulsions with dilated pupils. Death follows shortly thereafter. If a pig vomits, there is a small chance of recovery.
Quercus Robur
This is the common oak. Pigs are often fed on acorns, however, when eaten excessively, they can cause gastritis and possibly tannin toxicity which can affect the kidneys and liver. The first sign is typically discolored urine, which could also be the result of dehydration or UTI. If liver failure occurs, the whites of the eyes may become jaundiced and in lighter pigmented pigs, the skin may turn a yellowish color as well. This is signs of liver failure.
Rheum Rhaponticum
This is the common garden plant, rhubarb. In theory, the leaves, which contain large amounts of oxalates, can be toxic to pigs. For signs of acute poisoning, the recommended treatment is calcium borogluconate given intravenously.
Arum Maculatum- known as cuckoo-pint or lords and ladies. It has long dark green stems with yellowish-green leaves and red berries. The white tuberous roots are what causes problems with pigs. They are an intense irritant and cause acute gastritis and vomiting. Later pigs will have diarrhea followed by death shortly thereafter. There is no specific treatment known, but demulcents are advised.
Beta Vulgaris
These are the root family that includes the sugar beet, fodder beet, mangles, turnips, etc. They are not toxic to pigs. Unlike ruminants, pigs do not seem to be highly affected by excess oxalates. However, problems arise in pigs if these roots are cooked and allowed to cool in the cooking water. Nitrates and nitrites are released which are toxic. The resulting compound does not exchange oxygen. Pigs turn blue, convulse, rapidly decline and die of asphyxia. The known antidote is intravenous methylene blue, but this isn't always effective.
Buxus Sempervirens
This is box, a common evergreen shrub used as a hedge plant. It typically flowers in April with white flowers. ALL parts of the plant are toxic. The alkaloid boxing is thought to be the active principle. Pigs are highly susceptible to poison by box leaves. They will vomit and show signs of acute abdominal pain. This is commonly followed by blood diarrhea and acute respiratory symptoms. Death rapidly follows.
Conium Maculatum
This is hemlock. When consumed in small quantities by breeding sows, they tend to give birth to piglets with cleft palate. Normally, pigs do not consume enough to cause toxicity.
Daphne Mezerum
This is a dwarf bay tree which is sometimes called the spurge olive. It is most commonly found in the UK. The flowers are pink and arrive in clusters early in the spring. The problem with these trees are the red berries. They are extremely irritant. Only a couple of berries can cause death in a mature pig. The initial symptoms are vomiting caused by acute gastritis. This is followed by collapse and death. The actual toxin hasn't been identified and there is no known treatment though demulcents like raw egg and milk are suggested.
Hyoscyamus Niger
The universal name for hid plant is henbane. Its is both an annual and biennial. It os covered with hairs and has a foul/unpleasant smell. It has coarsely lobed, large radial leaves with shirt stalks. The yellowish-white flowers have a purple colored eye. It is the thick, large white root which poisons pigs. The active toxins are hyoscyamine, hyoscine and atropine. The plant used to be grown as a medicine. Pigs will have dilated pupils and dry mouths before going into convulsions. The treatment for this is Morphine at 1mg/kg IM to not only control the convulsions, but also to act as an emetic. There is a chance of recovery of they can be kept warm and safe during the acute phases of poisoning.
Iris Foetidissima
This is the stinking iris which is often called the roast beef plant. It is an erect perennial with dark green leaves. It has violet blue flowers which become bright scarlet seeds. It is again the root which causes problems for pigs. When ingested, pigs become prostrate and then tend to have violent dysentery. Demulcents are the recommended treatment and chances of recovery are good.
Lycoperiscon Esculentum
This is the common tomato and the fruit is not toxic to pigs. However, the stems and shoot are toxic. Pigs can become poisoned by rooting through gardens. The principle toxin is solanine. Pigs become depressed and if enough was eaten, they will become laterally recumbent and death will follow. The traditionally remedy is actually strong sweet tea. Ideally, you would be able to get your pig to drink this, but if not, you must take precautions to avoid aspiration pneumonia by force feeding. By the same principle, green potato plants contain the same toxin and should be safely discarded as well.
Nicotiana Tabacum
The tobacco plant is very toxic to pigs. The active toxin, nicotine, will cause rapid death even if ingested in relatively small amounts.
Oenanthe Crocata
This is a water dropwort, also called a water hemlock. It's found in marshy areas. It is a strong perennial plant with a branched hollow stem which has grooves on the outside. It has very divided compound leaves and white flowers, which are umbels, that are seen around mid summer. The problem with this plant is the root stock. These are thick pale yellow tubers, often referred to as "dead man's fingers." The roots are brought to the surface by dredging or even by a rooting pig. The active toxin is oenathetoxin. The roots remain toxic even after they dry out. They're also extremely potent. Pigs only require a small amount before going into convulsions with dilated pupils. Death follows shortly thereafter. If a pig vomits, there is a small chance of recovery.
Quercus Robur
This is the common oak. Pigs are often fed on acorns, however, when eaten excessively, they can cause gastritis and possibly tannin toxicity which can affect the kidneys and liver. The first sign is typically discolored urine, which could also be the result of dehydration or UTI. If liver failure occurs, the whites of the eyes may become jaundiced and in lighter pigmented pigs, the skin may turn a yellowish color as well. This is signs of liver failure.
Rheum Rhaponticum
This is the common garden plant, rhubarb. In theory, the leaves, which contain large amounts of oxalates, can be toxic to pigs. For signs of acute poisoning, the recommended treatment is calcium borogluconate given intravenously.
Chemical Poisons
Ammonia- If there is a high level of ammonia in a pig's house, this can be unpleasant for both you and your pig, especially since your pig sits closer to the ground level. Consistent levels over 150 ppm will cause significant reductions in growth.
Arsenic Poisoning- This should technically be a condition of the past since arsanilic acid is no longer used for treating swine dysentery. Progressive paralysis and blindness follow the initial tremors. Death rapidly follows without medical intervention.
Carbadox- This poisoning occurs when this substance is added to your pig's diet at 3x the therapeutic level. The results are slow growth and poor intake.
Carbon Monoxide- Levels of 50 ppm will cause stillbirths and spontaneous abortions. Most common causes are because of faulty gas heaters or vehicles running in poorly ventilated areas.
Cyanide Poisoning- In animals that graze, the most common cause of this poisoning is from eating plants which contain cyanide. Clinical signs which follow a brief period of excitement are dyspnea (shortness of breath), excess salivation, lacrimation and vomiting. Muscle involvement is typical and begins to spasm, a pig will start staggering, collapse, eventually coma and then death. If a pig survives over 2 hours after ingesting this, the chances of recovery increase.
Furazolidone- Furazolidone is used to treat bacterial and protozoal infections. It works by killing bacteria and protozoa (tiny, one-celled animals). It works inside the intestinal tract to treat cholera, colitis, and/or diarrhea caused by bacteria, and giardiasis. This particular medication has been banned in some parts of the world, but it is available in the US. 3x the therapeutic level will cause ataxia and vomiting.
Iron toxicity- This can occur from the overdosing of injectable iron in piglets. The piglets will be very depressed and will usually huddle together. Elemental iron is the "do not eat" packet found in dehydrated meat products such as beef jerky, and this little packet can also be deadly if ingested. Most piglets will die within 6 hours of an injection due to being overdosed. When eaten, such as the packet found in food products, once the symptoms start occurring, the damage is done and little can intervention can be done to help the situation. Death will occur if there is no medical treatment.
Metaldehyde- This is the active ingredient in molluscicides that are commonly used for snail/slug control. It is usually dyed a turquoise color so that it can be easily identified. It is palatable to pigs. Initially, excessive salivation ensues and this quickly leads to incoordination and convulsions. Death is then rapid. There is no specific treatment, but many veterinarians take this kind of situation and anesthetize a pig hoping that once the pig recovers from the sedation, the acute phase will have passed.
Monensin- Poisoning can occur if pigs eat poultry feed. They may be found dead or showing severe neurological symptoms. The heart will show pale areas at necropsy. There is no treatment known.
Nitrate/Nitrite Poisoning- This condition has been recorded in pigs that have been fed on whey and are kept in poorly ventilated conditions. Pigs initially show subacute respiratory signs and mimic infectious respiratory illnesses/diseases, so they must be excluded or ruled out. The distinctive sign is pyrexia (fever). They do not cough, but they do tend to have labored breathing. They then collapse and become comatose. Recovery is possible and you can eliminate the possibility by removing whey from their diet and ensuring appropriate ventilation is in place.
Olaquindox- This is a relatively safe medication, but is toxic at 10x the prescribed level.
Organophophorous Poisoning- This illness was originally seen as a possible congenital tremor seen in newborn piglets. Most pigs can survive this as long as the shaking doesn't prevent them from staying on the teat.
Paraquat- This is an extremely potent poison. Pigs require very little before showing toxic signs. There is an initial excitement period followed by incoordination and convulsions. Acute diarrhea and respiratory distress are commonly seen in this type of poisoning. If only small amounts are involved, treatment includes injections of Vitamin E and Selenium.
Phenol- Toxicity can occur after the use of these disinfectants if the pig is introduced back to the area while the pens are still wet.Quite severe skin lesions can occur and treatment entails hosing down any affected pigs. Burns can occur and treatment for those burns should take place, preferably with oily/soothing creams.
Salt Poisoning/Water Deprivation- This is one of the most common causes of unnatural death in pigs. Click here to read more about this specific situation. Hydration is key to treatment, but needs to take place over a period of time and cannot be done quickly as this is what causes the major issue in pigs.
Selenium Poisoning- This is extremely rare and often a result of accidental ingestion of another animals supplement or accidental overdose. Pigs that are affected by this typically have a difficult time rising that lasts for more than 12 hours. Great nursing can make recovery possible.
Warfarin- Pigs will eat rat bait containing warfarin. The typical signs of toxicity are coughing up blood, bloody diarrhea and hemorrhages visible on the skin. This doesn't occur directly after the ingestion takes place. As a matter of fact, it is normally a delayed response by like 3-4 days. Identifying that your pig has potentially ingested this poison is key to successful treatment and recovery. Vitamin K is the antidote for warfarin based poison.
Reactions To Medications
Penicillin- If procaine penicillin is inadvertently injected into a pig with a penicillin sensitivity or allergy, pigs tend to show immediate signs such as trembling or hives. Most pigs recover on their own with no treatment, but if exposed over and over again, the reaction will likely become more severe with each exposure.
Tiamulin- This medication rarely causes problems when fed at an appropriate dose and is used to treat swine dysentery. The signs of an adverse reaction include slight reddening or in rare situations, death.
Anaphylaxis- a sensitivity or allergy to anything a pig comes in to contact with. Anaphylaxis is an emergency and without treatment, your pig can die.
General Anesthesia- Pigs don't do well with sedation. Combine their lack of lung volume with a respiratory depressant, such as anesthesia, and you have the mix for the perfect storm. Many pigs are sedated and never wake up or recover. Some pigs wake up and have violent outbursts as they try to recover.
Other Causes
Restraint leading to cardiac arrest- If a pig is worked up because he/she is being restrained, this can lead to your pigs death. PSS or porcine stress syndrome is a genetic disorder that includes malignant hyperthermia and pale soft exudative muscle. Rigor mortis develops rapidly and these pale areas can be seen post mortem.
Massive Hemorrhage- This can occur in any pig and is often associated with blood pressure issues, but can also be heredity or happen at parturition (during birth). An overly excited pig, such as one being restrained for long periods of time while being upset, can lead to a ruptured vessel in the brain which can lead to a massive hemorrhage resulting in death.
Bowel Edema- This is a disease most commonly found in newly weaned piglets, but can technically occur at any age. Most piglets will have classic signs such as swollen eyelids and the larynx. Isolating E-coli from a sample taken from the small intestines will aid in diagnosis and possible treatment.
Bowel Perforation- This is normally a progressive disease that occurs when there is untreated constipation or an obstruction of some kind. This can also occur if there is a product with sharp edges swallowed such as raw-hide dog treats or other non-pig items that has been ingested. As these products are swallowed and pass through the GI (gastrointestinal) tract, the sharp parts can "tear" the esophagus, stomach or intestines. A bowel perforation os when the bowel is torn causing fecal matter to spill out into the body which typically leads to a massive infection.
Choking- Unfortunately, mini pigs do tend to swallow objects/products they're not supposed to eat. There have been mini pigs found in acute distress and mini pigs found to have already passed away after having swallowed something they weren't supposed to eat. (and mini pigs will usually taste EVERYTHING, so small toys, coins, metal, balloons, walls, etc....none of these things are meant to be eaten, but mini pigs will, so try to keep your pigs area free from objects they can possibly swallow)
Clostridosis- This can cause death in baby pigs with the characteristic of "port-wine colored diarrhea". The rate of death in adult and large fat pigs is about the same as piglets when this is going on.
Coliform Mastitis- This can cause sudden death in newly farrowed sows. The glands will be swollen and hard with no secretions. The specific organism can be isolated from the affected gland.
Cystitis- Cystitis rarely causes death and pyelonephritis rarely causes any acute symptoms either. Sudden death occurs when both kidneys are affected by an organism ascending from the kidneys with a toxic form of e-coli.
Drowning- Pigs can swim, but they easily become exhausted and cold. The lungs fill, much like a humans lungs would fill during a drowning and eventual death will follow.
Erysipelas- Endocarditis will cause sudden death. If there is left sided heart failure, there will be blood pooling in the tissues and peritoneum. If the right side of the heart is involved, there will be fluid in the lungs and thorax. Cyanosis will be a feature in right sided heart failure.
Electrocution- Diagnosis is based on clinical situations. If there is a frayed cord or your pig likes to chew on cords, there is the possibility of electrocution. The heart muscle will show signs of hemorrhage at necropsy.
Encephalomyocarditis- This is caused by a cardiovirus. The virus is much more common in tropical areas in cattle, but is also seen in young pigs. The whole body will be congested with large amounts of fluids in the body cavities.
Gastric/Splenic Torsion- This condition is seen in adult pigs and occasionally in large fat pigs. The pig will appear bloated and visibly uncomfortable. Positive identification can be made at necropsy.
Heat Stroke- When it is excessively hot outside and your pig doesn't have a way to cool itself off, a heat stroke is imminent and will lead to death if not treated. The entire body typically turns a red color and is congested.
Intestinal Volvulus/Foreign Body Entrapment- These are causes of sudden death if the pig hasn't been observed in the last 12 hours. Once obstructed, the body will be unable to rid itself of waste products typically resulting in hardening of the fecal matter and eventual perforated bowels or necrotic bowels which both end in death with no medical treatment to remove the offensive obstruction.
Lightning Strike- This is obviously rare in pigs but often seen over diagnosed for farmer's insurance reasons. A pig would need to be outside and touching a fence or grounded object to be affected by a lighting strike. Hemorrhagic streaks are meant to be seen in the subcutaneous tissues and forelegs, but rarely found.
Malignat Hyperthermia- This condition causes sudden pig death in growing and adult pigs. See Porcine Stress Syndrome to read more about this.
Mulberry Heart Disease- Classically, this cause of sudden death is found in large fat pigs, but it can occur in any age group. There are pericardial and endocardial streaky hemorrhages. The liver is usually large and mottled. The Vitamin E levels in the liver can be used to confirm the diagnosis.
Pasteurellosis- This is a common condition, but rarely causes death. Sudden death occurs if there is peracute pneumonia along with cardiac involvement.
PSS/Porcine Stress Syndrome- This causes sudden death. PDNS (porcine dermatitis and nephropathy syndrome) occurs in large fat pigs as well as adult pigs. The skin on the rear end will have marked discoloration which will appear as large purple patches. This is part of an inherited disease complex which includes malignant hyperthermia and pale soft exudate.
Ruptured Aneurysm- This can be a mysterious cause of sudden death in any age pig if the ruptured aneurysm is in the brain. In adult pigs, the aneurysm can also be in the abdomen filling the abdominal area with blood if ruptured.
Sepsis- This is a generic term for a massive infection that has spread to the body. An untreated infection has the potential to cause infection in the blood which, in turn, affects survival rates, especially if you're not aware that something is wrong. ALWAYS call your vet at the first signs of illness/disease.
Snake Bite- Poisonous snake bites can lead to death. There used to be a rumor indicating that pigs were immune to snake bites which is completely false. The venom acts the same in pigs as it does in humans assuming it reaches the blood supply. A large, fat pig who is bitten in a fatty area may not show signs of poisoning. Confirmation can be made by locating the bite marks.
Streptococcal Infections- The meningitis caused by these organisms commonly causes death in large growing pigs. The organism can be isolated from the blood in the heart to confirm the diagnosis.
Thiamin Deficiency- This causes myocardial degeneration and is seen in pigs fed an all-bread diet or fed large amounts of bracken.
Trauma- You will likely be able to identify a traumatic injury versus one that may be happening internally. Hit by a car, dog attacks, being shot are all examples of a traumatic injury.
Uterine Prolapse- If the middle uterine artery has ruptured, this condition will cause sudden death.
Whey Bloat- This causes sudden death in large growing pigs and a pig will appear bloated and pale. The small intestine will be swollen and contain a fair amount of blood stained fluid.
Ammonia- If there is a high level of ammonia in a pig's house, this can be unpleasant for both you and your pig, especially since your pig sits closer to the ground level. Consistent levels over 150 ppm will cause significant reductions in growth.
Arsenic Poisoning- This should technically be a condition of the past since arsanilic acid is no longer used for treating swine dysentery. Progressive paralysis and blindness follow the initial tremors. Death rapidly follows without medical intervention.
Carbadox- This poisoning occurs when this substance is added to your pig's diet at 3x the therapeutic level. The results are slow growth and poor intake.
Carbon Monoxide- Levels of 50 ppm will cause stillbirths and spontaneous abortions. Most common causes are because of faulty gas heaters or vehicles running in poorly ventilated areas.
Cyanide Poisoning- In animals that graze, the most common cause of this poisoning is from eating plants which contain cyanide. Clinical signs which follow a brief period of excitement are dyspnea (shortness of breath), excess salivation, lacrimation and vomiting. Muscle involvement is typical and begins to spasm, a pig will start staggering, collapse, eventually coma and then death. If a pig survives over 2 hours after ingesting this, the chances of recovery increase.
Furazolidone- Furazolidone is used to treat bacterial and protozoal infections. It works by killing bacteria and protozoa (tiny, one-celled animals). It works inside the intestinal tract to treat cholera, colitis, and/or diarrhea caused by bacteria, and giardiasis. This particular medication has been banned in some parts of the world, but it is available in the US. 3x the therapeutic level will cause ataxia and vomiting.
Iron toxicity- This can occur from the overdosing of injectable iron in piglets. The piglets will be very depressed and will usually huddle together. Elemental iron is the "do not eat" packet found in dehydrated meat products such as beef jerky, and this little packet can also be deadly if ingested. Most piglets will die within 6 hours of an injection due to being overdosed. When eaten, such as the packet found in food products, once the symptoms start occurring, the damage is done and little can intervention can be done to help the situation. Death will occur if there is no medical treatment.
Metaldehyde- This is the active ingredient in molluscicides that are commonly used for snail/slug control. It is usually dyed a turquoise color so that it can be easily identified. It is palatable to pigs. Initially, excessive salivation ensues and this quickly leads to incoordination and convulsions. Death is then rapid. There is no specific treatment, but many veterinarians take this kind of situation and anesthetize a pig hoping that once the pig recovers from the sedation, the acute phase will have passed.
Monensin- Poisoning can occur if pigs eat poultry feed. They may be found dead or showing severe neurological symptoms. The heart will show pale areas at necropsy. There is no treatment known.
Nitrate/Nitrite Poisoning- This condition has been recorded in pigs that have been fed on whey and are kept in poorly ventilated conditions. Pigs initially show subacute respiratory signs and mimic infectious respiratory illnesses/diseases, so they must be excluded or ruled out. The distinctive sign is pyrexia (fever). They do not cough, but they do tend to have labored breathing. They then collapse and become comatose. Recovery is possible and you can eliminate the possibility by removing whey from their diet and ensuring appropriate ventilation is in place.
Olaquindox- This is a relatively safe medication, but is toxic at 10x the prescribed level.
Organophophorous Poisoning- This illness was originally seen as a possible congenital tremor seen in newborn piglets. Most pigs can survive this as long as the shaking doesn't prevent them from staying on the teat.
Paraquat- This is an extremely potent poison. Pigs require very little before showing toxic signs. There is an initial excitement period followed by incoordination and convulsions. Acute diarrhea and respiratory distress are commonly seen in this type of poisoning. If only small amounts are involved, treatment includes injections of Vitamin E and Selenium.
Phenol- Toxicity can occur after the use of these disinfectants if the pig is introduced back to the area while the pens are still wet.Quite severe skin lesions can occur and treatment entails hosing down any affected pigs. Burns can occur and treatment for those burns should take place, preferably with oily/soothing creams.
Salt Poisoning/Water Deprivation- This is one of the most common causes of unnatural death in pigs. Click here to read more about this specific situation. Hydration is key to treatment, but needs to take place over a period of time and cannot be done quickly as this is what causes the major issue in pigs.
Selenium Poisoning- This is extremely rare and often a result of accidental ingestion of another animals supplement or accidental overdose. Pigs that are affected by this typically have a difficult time rising that lasts for more than 12 hours. Great nursing can make recovery possible.
Warfarin- Pigs will eat rat bait containing warfarin. The typical signs of toxicity are coughing up blood, bloody diarrhea and hemorrhages visible on the skin. This doesn't occur directly after the ingestion takes place. As a matter of fact, it is normally a delayed response by like 3-4 days. Identifying that your pig has potentially ingested this poison is key to successful treatment and recovery. Vitamin K is the antidote for warfarin based poison.
Reactions To Medications
Penicillin- If procaine penicillin is inadvertently injected into a pig with a penicillin sensitivity or allergy, pigs tend to show immediate signs such as trembling or hives. Most pigs recover on their own with no treatment, but if exposed over and over again, the reaction will likely become more severe with each exposure.
Tiamulin- This medication rarely causes problems when fed at an appropriate dose and is used to treat swine dysentery. The signs of an adverse reaction include slight reddening or in rare situations, death.
Anaphylaxis- a sensitivity or allergy to anything a pig comes in to contact with. Anaphylaxis is an emergency and without treatment, your pig can die.
General Anesthesia- Pigs don't do well with sedation. Combine their lack of lung volume with a respiratory depressant, such as anesthesia, and you have the mix for the perfect storm. Many pigs are sedated and never wake up or recover. Some pigs wake up and have violent outbursts as they try to recover.
Other Causes
Restraint leading to cardiac arrest- If a pig is worked up because he/she is being restrained, this can lead to your pigs death. PSS or porcine stress syndrome is a genetic disorder that includes malignant hyperthermia and pale soft exudative muscle. Rigor mortis develops rapidly and these pale areas can be seen post mortem.
Massive Hemorrhage- This can occur in any pig and is often associated with blood pressure issues, but can also be heredity or happen at parturition (during birth). An overly excited pig, such as one being restrained for long periods of time while being upset, can lead to a ruptured vessel in the brain which can lead to a massive hemorrhage resulting in death.
Bowel Edema- This is a disease most commonly found in newly weaned piglets, but can technically occur at any age. Most piglets will have classic signs such as swollen eyelids and the larynx. Isolating E-coli from a sample taken from the small intestines will aid in diagnosis and possible treatment.
Bowel Perforation- This is normally a progressive disease that occurs when there is untreated constipation or an obstruction of some kind. This can also occur if there is a product with sharp edges swallowed such as raw-hide dog treats or other non-pig items that has been ingested. As these products are swallowed and pass through the GI (gastrointestinal) tract, the sharp parts can "tear" the esophagus, stomach or intestines. A bowel perforation os when the bowel is torn causing fecal matter to spill out into the body which typically leads to a massive infection.
Choking- Unfortunately, mini pigs do tend to swallow objects/products they're not supposed to eat. There have been mini pigs found in acute distress and mini pigs found to have already passed away after having swallowed something they weren't supposed to eat. (and mini pigs will usually taste EVERYTHING, so small toys, coins, metal, balloons, walls, etc....none of these things are meant to be eaten, but mini pigs will, so try to keep your pigs area free from objects they can possibly swallow)
Clostridosis- This can cause death in baby pigs with the characteristic of "port-wine colored diarrhea". The rate of death in adult and large fat pigs is about the same as piglets when this is going on.
Coliform Mastitis- This can cause sudden death in newly farrowed sows. The glands will be swollen and hard with no secretions. The specific organism can be isolated from the affected gland.
Cystitis- Cystitis rarely causes death and pyelonephritis rarely causes any acute symptoms either. Sudden death occurs when both kidneys are affected by an organism ascending from the kidneys with a toxic form of e-coli.
Drowning- Pigs can swim, but they easily become exhausted and cold. The lungs fill, much like a humans lungs would fill during a drowning and eventual death will follow.
Erysipelas- Endocarditis will cause sudden death. If there is left sided heart failure, there will be blood pooling in the tissues and peritoneum. If the right side of the heart is involved, there will be fluid in the lungs and thorax. Cyanosis will be a feature in right sided heart failure.
Electrocution- Diagnosis is based on clinical situations. If there is a frayed cord or your pig likes to chew on cords, there is the possibility of electrocution. The heart muscle will show signs of hemorrhage at necropsy.
Encephalomyocarditis- This is caused by a cardiovirus. The virus is much more common in tropical areas in cattle, but is also seen in young pigs. The whole body will be congested with large amounts of fluids in the body cavities.
Gastric/Splenic Torsion- This condition is seen in adult pigs and occasionally in large fat pigs. The pig will appear bloated and visibly uncomfortable. Positive identification can be made at necropsy.
Heat Stroke- When it is excessively hot outside and your pig doesn't have a way to cool itself off, a heat stroke is imminent and will lead to death if not treated. The entire body typically turns a red color and is congested.
Intestinal Volvulus/Foreign Body Entrapment- These are causes of sudden death if the pig hasn't been observed in the last 12 hours. Once obstructed, the body will be unable to rid itself of waste products typically resulting in hardening of the fecal matter and eventual perforated bowels or necrotic bowels which both end in death with no medical treatment to remove the offensive obstruction.
Lightning Strike- This is obviously rare in pigs but often seen over diagnosed for farmer's insurance reasons. A pig would need to be outside and touching a fence or grounded object to be affected by a lighting strike. Hemorrhagic streaks are meant to be seen in the subcutaneous tissues and forelegs, but rarely found.
Malignat Hyperthermia- This condition causes sudden pig death in growing and adult pigs. See Porcine Stress Syndrome to read more about this.
Mulberry Heart Disease- Classically, this cause of sudden death is found in large fat pigs, but it can occur in any age group. There are pericardial and endocardial streaky hemorrhages. The liver is usually large and mottled. The Vitamin E levels in the liver can be used to confirm the diagnosis.
Pasteurellosis- This is a common condition, but rarely causes death. Sudden death occurs if there is peracute pneumonia along with cardiac involvement.
PSS/Porcine Stress Syndrome- This causes sudden death. PDNS (porcine dermatitis and nephropathy syndrome) occurs in large fat pigs as well as adult pigs. The skin on the rear end will have marked discoloration which will appear as large purple patches. This is part of an inherited disease complex which includes malignant hyperthermia and pale soft exudate.
Ruptured Aneurysm- This can be a mysterious cause of sudden death in any age pig if the ruptured aneurysm is in the brain. In adult pigs, the aneurysm can also be in the abdomen filling the abdominal area with blood if ruptured.
Sepsis- This is a generic term for a massive infection that has spread to the body. An untreated infection has the potential to cause infection in the blood which, in turn, affects survival rates, especially if you're not aware that something is wrong. ALWAYS call your vet at the first signs of illness/disease.
Snake Bite- Poisonous snake bites can lead to death. There used to be a rumor indicating that pigs were immune to snake bites which is completely false. The venom acts the same in pigs as it does in humans assuming it reaches the blood supply. A large, fat pig who is bitten in a fatty area may not show signs of poisoning. Confirmation can be made by locating the bite marks.
Streptococcal Infections- The meningitis caused by these organisms commonly causes death in large growing pigs. The organism can be isolated from the blood in the heart to confirm the diagnosis.
Thiamin Deficiency- This causes myocardial degeneration and is seen in pigs fed an all-bread diet or fed large amounts of bracken.
Trauma- You will likely be able to identify a traumatic injury versus one that may be happening internally. Hit by a car, dog attacks, being shot are all examples of a traumatic injury.
Uterine Prolapse- If the middle uterine artery has ruptured, this condition will cause sudden death.
Whey Bloat- This causes sudden death in large growing pigs and a pig will appear bloated and pale. The small intestine will be swollen and contain a fair amount of blood stained fluid.