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My pig is limping for weeks, not using her front leg. What to do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Female | unspayed | 2 years and 2 months old | 100 lbs

My pig has been limping for a couple of weeks. She won't put weight on her front feet. If she does she won't put any weight on her left foot. I checked her feet and didn't see anything wrong.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on October 19th, 2018

Thanks for reaching out regarding Penelope. Concerns would be that it is more than a sprain, and might be a fracture or dislocation. It is often difficult to perform a physical exam on pigs due to their size and temperment, but try manipulating (flexing and extending) joints in the leg and paying attention to her response. Start with the ankle/hoof, and work your way upward to the elbow and then shoulder. Try to see if you can localized pain or discomfort.
Then you will need to make an appointment with a veterinarian, and a radiograph will probably be recommended.
Good luck.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on February 1st, 2017
Hi there. So sorry to hear about Penelope's illness.

Pigs don't really "founder" like horses do. It sounds more likely that she could have one of these conditions:

* foot abscess or bruise
* joint inflammation
* thrush (foot)
* fracture (break) of a bone somewhere in the leg

She may just need a good hoof trimming. Have you had her feet trimmed recently?

It is definitely recommended that Penelope have a veterinarian exam her so the best treatment can be instituted. She may need some x-rays to determine the underlying cause of the limping. Your vet will also be able to dispense some anti-inflammatory/pain medications to make Penelope more comfortable as I'm sure she is in pain if she is not putting any weight on the leg.

Be sure to use a veterinarian that is used to dealing with pigs!

I hope this helps. Best wishes!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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