limping

Question
I have a 3 yr old potbelly, she has been limping for about a week. Back left leg, I notice her toes spread out when she steps down. Would that symptom be obvious to you? Can they break their toe? I thought it may be bruised from walking in the rocks, but she may have to get an x-ray, hate to put her through that stress. She has been laying low, which isn't like her. Thank you Helen.

Answer
I am not a veterinarian and can not make a medical diagnosis over the internet.

Check her foot for cuts, sores, swelling or tenderness. Pigs bruise quickly and the bruises vanish just as fast, but the pain and swelling will linger after the color has gone.

If her foot feels ok, start working your way up her leg. Often, a limp is the first sign of a hip problem. If her hip has hot or tender spots, it could be arthritis or injury.

The standard treatment for injuries is RICE - Rest Ice Compression Elevation. It sounds like she's willing to rest on her own. I won't try to elevate an injured pig. You might be able to apply cold compresses.

Make sure she doesn't have to walk on any slippery surfaces. Pigs are rather stiff animals, they are not bendy like cats or dogs. One slip while walking can leave them with a painful strain that can last for a couple of weeks.