Pig Coat Blowing

We get a LOT of questions each year and have had over 10 alone this week on, "my pigs hair is all falling out! Help! Is he sick!?" This is normal. It is called blowing the coat.

Just like dogs that tend to have a major shed out in both the spring and fall, more so in the spring to prepare for summer heat, pigs will also do a major shed out of their hair. This typically happens in both the spring and fall, however there is no set timing and there are many factors that may go in to when it occurs; no two pigs will be alike as to timing, duration and how much. Remember each pig is an individual and just because one does it a certain way and at a certain time, does not mean that the next pig will even do it remotly the same. So do not get worried or stressed. Some of the factors that can contribute to coat blowing are: indoor vs outdoor pets, geographical temperatures and location, diet, stress levels with family and/or other herd members. Even in extremely healthy pets these will all be a factor and it does not mean you are doing something wrong.

Pet pigs that are indoors tend to go through multiple smaller shed cycles as opposed to a full blowing, although some still do! This is because their environment is much more regulated and they are not beholden to fluctuations in outdoor temperatures or excessive heat. They also aren't dealing with lunar and seasonal sun cycles, which can play minor roles.

for both indoor and outdoor pet pigs helping your pet shed out or blow their coat quicker can be a help to your pet and even to you, when it comes to clean up. This may prove to be a great oppertunity for your pet you get some good scratches in and maybe even some brushing sessions! There is a brush on the market that really helps in blowing or shedding situations. It is called the Slick Ez. We have mentioned it before in various capacities and you can buy one just about anywhere, including Amazon or direct from their website. This is a great tool to have in ones arsenal! You can even check out our Products Page to see what we are refering to. Click here to be redirected there.

We hope this may bring a little peace to any new pig parents out there that may be feeling stressed and losing their own hair over wondering if their pet is healthy. We assure you are doing it right and blowing the coat is nothing to lose sleep over. Happy shedding friends!