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Why is my potbelly pig screaming in pain then suddenly okay?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My neighbor has what I believe to be a potbelly pig. This morning it was laying on it's side, not moving, SCREAMING in pain. It wouldn't let us go near it. It lasted around 10 minutes, just consistent screaming (sounded like it was dying) and then it got up and started wagging it's tail, eating and drinking. Can you please advise what may have caused this?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 14th, 2017

Hello, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I am so sorry for your concerns about your neighbors PBP. Having raised them, I can tell you that EVERYTHING makes a PBP scream. But, this is very unusual & quite concerning. My thoughts are there was some belly pain, either indigestion or gas that caused such discomfort. If the pig managed to get stuck & was unable to right herself, then that would cause her to holler in distress. Arthritis might cause this, but my old girl would just grunt & complain as she moved about. Fortunately, once she was up, all was right in the world, but please make sure the owner of the pig is aware of what has happened. He needs to see if there is something that needs to be done to prevent a future occurrence. Thank you.

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