Knee walking

Question
My little girl pig is 2 1/2 years old and got ill about a year ago. Lethargic, wouldnt eat but did recover. The vet treated her and since then she seems to go through times when she doesnt want to leave her stall and lays around for days at a time. She will eat but I have to get her on her feet and move in her in the direction of the food.  She also seems to prefer to walk and eat on her knees and it looks as if she is very stiff.  I give her vitamins daily and a joint supplement as well.  It seems cyclical as sometimes she seems like she is fine and wants to engage and walk around our yard.  I'm lost with how to help her.  Can you offer any advice?  Thank you.

Answer
Knee walking is an indication of pain. It may be in the spine, hips, or front legs or feet. Arthritis has a "come and go" quality, pigs with arthritis will have good days and bad days.

I am guessing that your vet treated for mycoplasma, one side effect of this often fatal illness is early onset arthritis. I am also guessing that the lethargy is due to pain and/or stiffness, not a lingering illness. It's a good idea to let your vet know the next time your piggy is having an "off" day. Your vet may want to examine piggy to be sure the illness is gone.

Slips and slippery surfaces are especially hard for arthritic pigs, and one slip of the hoof can leave a pig aching for days. So make sure piggy does not have to climb stairs or walk across slippery surfaces.

Keeping feet properly trimmed can help with some arthritic conditions. Your vet may want to prescribe a drug like Rimadyl or Meloxicam.