Problem With Micro Pigs HInd Legs

Question
hi, i have noticed that my 10 month old micro pig Gordy is having problems with his hind legs. When he walks his hind legs wobble and start slipping, the floor is not slippery since he is on concrete. He still eats and shows no sign of pain but we are very worried. Any advice of what could be the problem?

Thanks so much!

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

Weakness and wobbliness in the rear could be a muscular problem, a skeletal problem, a nerve/brain problem, or something as simple as badly shaped hooves or a sore front leg.

So, first make sure all 4 feet are trimmed short and even. Check for any signs of injury or objects stuck in the feet. Also look for injuries on the front legs or shoulder. If piggy can not move his front legs properly (or it hurts to move them), it could appear as if he's wobbling in back, because his rear is trying to compensate.

Standing on just the hind legs, climbing stairs and jumping on and off furniture are very stressful on pigs legs and hips. Use ramps over stairs, and provide pet steps or just stepping stools so piggy doesn't need to jump up to get on furniture.

The next step is a veterinary examination. This will include x-rays. Hip and back problems are not uncommon in pigs. They may be due to injury or birth defect, and may require surgery to fix.

Concrete is a good surface for cleaning and for keeping hooves trim, but pigs kept mostly on concrete tend to develop arthritis. This is a frequent problem in older pigs. But if your piggy has bad joints, he may be developing early onset arthritis, which will be visible in the x-rays. Because this is a very young age to get this disease, piggy will most likely need medication.

There are a few pig diseases that cause muscle weakness. Although these are almost never seen in pet pigs, your vet will need blood tests to rule them out.

Brain/nerve problems are also rare, but it does happen.