Did it ever occur to you that you can get a pig for a pet? No, you will not feed and keep it for dinner later. Rather, you’ll pamper it as a legitimate part of the family.
If it didn’t occur to you, then maybe you’ve heard of it. After all, pet owners in the US have been riding on the trend for the last decade. The craze is especially high for the so-called “teacup pigs”.
If you’re considering owning one, here’s an idea on how much does a teacup pig cost.
Average Teacup Pig Price
On average, how much does a teacup pig cost? According to Bestfriends.org, the price range for the said pet can run from several hundred to a thousand dollars.
The hefty price tag is due to the “rarity” of little pigs. Micro types or the potbelly ones end up weighing between 100 and 200 pounds once they become adults. While still heavy, the said weight is much lower than the normal farm breed that reaches around 1,000 pounds at adulthood.
Sample Teacup Pig Price
How much does a teacup pig cost if we look at prices set by breeders?
If you look up “teacup pig price” online, you’ll find several breeders selling piglets with the costs reaching over $1,000. For instance, Teacuppiggies.com sells most of their teacup pigs for $1,295. Older pigs tend to be more affordable, ranging from $700 to $995.
Another seller is Squeals on Wheels. The said seller has prices ranging from $1,150 to $1,200. Discounted pigs, on the other hand, range from $750 to $1,000.
Meanwhile, the cost of teacup pigs from Pampered Piglets ranges from $1,836 to $2,648. The company allows installment of payment for up to 8 months.
Some pigs sold by others may cost as high as $3,500.
Tips On Buying Teacup Pigs
So, you want a teacup pig for a pet? Then consider these tips before you reach for your pocket to get one.
- You should not take the word “teacup” literally.
Let’s face it. Some unscrupulous sellers will make you believe that they have pigs that could fit in a teacup. Of course, that can’t be true. The term is only an indicator that you’re getting a tiny, less-furry bundle of joy.
By tiny, we mean much smaller than a typical pig. You have to face the fact that a piglet will eventually become an adult. And that means it will grow bigger.
Before you buy, make sure you’re ready to keep your pig regardless of it growing into a 200-pound beauty.
- Make sure you’re paying for the right pig.
This is similar to the first tip. Some sellers will offer you a “micro pig” that costs over a thousand dollars, and guess what? Your pet turned out to be a regular breed.
That said, it will be risky to buy online. If possible, opt for sellers who will let you see and inspect the pigs first. Better yet, ask an expert so that you can determine if your prospective pet is indeed a “micro pig”.
- Make sure it’s legal to keep a pig in your location.
Pigs are not your ordinary pets. So, some county, town, or even states have regulations related to owning livestock. That said, investigate the law in your area. Chances are that you’ll have to acquire a license first before you take in your new pet.
- Make sure you and your family are prepared to take care of the teacup pig until the end.
Some pet owners adore their teacup pigs but stop doing so once the little creatures start growing. Due to that, there are a lot of pigs who end up out on the streets.
If you want a teacup pig, know that it will not always be that cute. You can’t prevent it from growing, and oh, how much they grow!
Basically, you are responsible for a life every time you take in a pet. If you can’t keep it until it reaches adulthood, reconsider. There are a lot of people who are more willing to take care of a pig, teacup or no.
A Closer Look At Teacup Pigs
Do you still want to keep a teacup pig for a pet? Well, you won’t be reading this if you think otherwise. That said, let’s look at some of the micro pig’s traits:
- A teacup pig may live for 15 to 20 years.
Your teacup pig will be around for a long time and that means you should have a similarly enduring commitment to it. If you’re not devoted, or if you move a lot, having a pet that can last for two decades can be a potential stressor to you. Additionally, the poor animal might also experience stress and neglect.
Hence, before owning a pig, see to it that you’re ready for a life-long commitment.
- Pigs are social and active.
A teacup pig is happiest if it has a companion. That said, you might want to consider owning two pigs so that they may instead play with each other once they get tired of you.
- Pigs can get depressed if you don’t entertain them properly.
By entertaining, we mean your teacup pig should not run out of things to do. Your pet should have a playmate, has enough space to move around, and lots of toys.
If it gets boring, your pig might exhibit signs of depression. The symptoms include lethargy and repetitive movements.
Caring for your teacup pig means you have to take the above traits into consideration. Aside from that, you also need to potty-train your pet as well as teach it tricks. You don’t have to worry about training your piggy for it is a smart animal.
Your pig, like any pet, needs food, exercise, and comfort. Don’t deprive it of necessities so you can be with each other for a longer time.
Remember that you should be responsible and passionate enough to keep a pig for a pet. Don’t take in an animal if you’re not up for the task!