Today we are discussing how to protect your piggy’s precious paws from pesky parasites.

The delicate feet of skinny pigs are battlegrounds for parasitic infections - most commonly, mites, fleas, ticks and lice. Don’t be fooled into complacency because they are hairless!

Parasitic infections in the feet of skinny pigs are more common than one might think. These infections are usually caused by parasites that see the sensitive skin of a skinny pig's feet as the perfect home. 

But why the feet, you ask?

Their feet are in constant contact with their environment, making them vulnerable to invaders that thrive in bedding, grass (if you take your piggy outside), or even in the fur of other pets in your home. Fleas especially are Olympic pole vaulters and can jump into your skinny pigs living area to burrow into their bedding and bite them, causing redness, itching and scaly skin patches. In severe cases, where bites have become infected and inflamed, your skinny pig may have crusty lesions on their paws.

The feet are the primary point of contact for these parasites as your piggy walks around. Of course, these types of parasites can also cause issues on other parts of your skinny pig's body too.

Symptoms

The first step in combating these parasites is recognizing their presence. Symptoms include excessive scratching, biting at the feet, redness, swelling, difficulty walking, and even lameness if the infection is severe. If you notice any of these signs, it's time to thoroughly inspect your potato’s feet so you can get to the bottom of it.

Treatment

Treating parasitic infections requires a multi-pronged approach. First and foremost, a visit to the vet is in order. They can confirm the presence of parasites through skin scrapings or cultures and recommend the appropriate medication. This might include topical antifungals or anti-parasitics, oral medications, or even dips in medicated baths. 

Cleaning and disinfecting the habitat, along with all toys and accessories, is crucial to prevent re-infection. 

It is also important to consider the source of infestation and treat any other pets in the home with a natural tick/flea/bug repellent when they go outside to keep critters at bay so your skinny pig is safe.

Prevention as the BEST Defense

Prevention is always better than cure, especially when it comes to parasitic infections. Regular cleaning of the habitat, using appropriate bedding, and keeping up with tick and flea treatments for other pets in the home can go a long way towards warding off these types of infestations. Additionally, regular health checks, including a close examination of your skinny pigs feet, can help catch any issues early on.

As an extra step, spoiling your piggy with a pedicure treatment using our nail and paw cleaner each week, is another great way to keep your skinny pig’s toes clean and well-inspected.

While parasitic infestations in skinny pig feet can be a daunting issue, they are also manageable with the right knowledge and care. 

Keep giving your pets the best of natural life!

~PetCoachApril 

April Arguin A.S., C.P.N., M.P.H