Raising Feeder Pigs
Many people have started raising feeder pigs for their own meat. Some raise their own piglets up and some purchase from another farmer. Here are some tips that I have learned over the years. If you are considering it or have already purchased check out my tips on how to be prepared. It’s a lot of work but also super rewarding as well.
Everyone you meet will have a different opinion on what the best pig to raise is. I prefer Berkshire or Duroc. Here’s a great article in which they share the 6 Best Pigs Breeds to raise. And in this article they state “The meat of a Berkshire pig is lean and flavorful, and it is often considered to be the best pork in the world.” I would have to agree!
I raise my pigs to organic standards and a little extra, they are not certified organic. I feel finding a farmer that raising pigs with your same philosophy is very helpful. However keep in mind some farms these pigs never see the outdoors or grass, which is sad. But that is how they choose to farm, not how I choose to farm.
If you can find a farm like mine that also lets the piglets nurse longer they will be much healthier and faster growing feeders as well from the extra doses of nutrients. Ask the farmer how long they nurse, most will be weaned at 4 weeks. I wean mine at 8 weeks when they go to their new homes.
For more info on my organic hobby farming and gardening adventures go to Homesteading, Growing, Raising and Preserving and Raising Pigs, Chickens and Ducks
Things To Consider Before Getting Feeder Pigs.
Before buying feeder pigs to raise, you should consider a variety of factors.
First, are you going to raise them organically or not? Then the cost of the pigs themselves, as well as the cost of feed, water, and any necessary medications or veterinary care. Like many other things with feeders you do get what you pay for, you are not going to find a top quality breed, that is organic or show for cheap.
Secondly, make sure that you have adequate space and housing for the pigs. Consider the breed of pig and its temperament, as well as the intended purpose of the pigs (e.g. for meat, show, breeding, etc.). And who has some available and when.
Third research local regulations governing the raising of pigs, as well as any zoning restrictions in your area.
Fourth, have a plan in place for slaughtering and processing the pigs, whether through a licensed facility or on your own property. If outsourcing, book this as soon as you have secured your feeder. Approximately 6-7 months for most breeds except Idaho pasture pigs they take much longer.
Finally, you should be prepared for the time and physical effort necessary to care for and raise the pigs, as well as any potential challenges that may arise. And someone reliable to do your chores if you go out of town.
Finding Feeders to Purchase
If you’re interested in purchasing feeder pigs, there are a few ways to find them. But first decide what breed you want to raise and if you want them raised organically or not.
One option is to contact local breeders or farmers in your area who specialize in raising pigs. Now there are varying degrees of philosophy of raising animals humanely. You will want to find a breeder that has similar philosophy to yours if buying feeders.
You can find them by searching online directories such as hobby farm groups on Facebook or Craigslist even. LocalHarvest.org or networking with fellow farmers or 4-H members. I raise and sell organically raised feeder pigs and I have a Facebook farm page Kathy’s Funny Farm. I am not certified organic but I follow the protocol and then some.
Be prepared to ask the farmer questions to get exactly what you want. If you are raising organically you will want to buy from an organic farmer. Otherwise they could have vaccinations, Ivermectin, antibiotics or several other things in there system. None of which are in organic standards.
Another option, I would not recommend and is not for organic, is to look online at livestock auctions, where you can place bids on feeder pigs. Some websites also allow you to directly purchase feeder pigs from breeders or sellers. Before making any purchases you should also inspect the pigs for any signs of illness or defects and ensure that they are up to date on vaccinations.
Overall, it’s essential to have a plan for raising and caring for the feeder pigs before making any purchases.
Preparing For Raising Feeder Pigs
Have a plan in place before the arrival of your pig. Sturdy fencing, such as hog fencing, possibly electric fence at the bottom so they don’t dig out. They’re little curious creatures and Houdini’s in a matter of minutes when they find a weakness in the fence. You’ll want to keep them safe.
They need a shelter to be able to get out of the wind, cold rain or storms. Dry bedding like straw works dual purpose. They will eat what tastes good and leave the rest to lay on or burrow in when colder at night. When they are little they don’t have much body fat to keep them warm yet.
Additionally they need a wallow, or a wet, muddy area to cool off. Pigs don’t sweat so they need the cool mud to cool down and it becomes a natural shield for bug repellant.
All pigs get worms decide if you want to organically treat, such as with Diatomaceous Earth or non organically with Ivermectin?
Find where you’re going to purchase your feed ahead of time, before you pick them up. I prefer to feed all my pigs twice a day. For feeders I base it on if they cleaned it all up or not, and how hungry are they acting at the next feeding. With feeders you obviously want them to gain weight quickly and they will if fed correctly. Invest in a good quality hog grower to feed them. Then supplement with grass, garden scraps, fruit etc.
I never suggest feeding your pig’s junk food like donuts. Will they eat it? YES! Is it good for them? NO, they don’t need sugar any more than we do. If you want quality meat feed them quality food.
Additional Resources
For all the details on pens, fencing, watering, and feeding go to my page Raising Pigs, Chicken and Ducks and go to the pig sections.
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