A quick look in the feed trough this morning told me something was wrong with our big pigs.
Leftover feed from the day before (or a few hours before) is not a normal sight. Pigs that don’t feel like eating are a rare occurrence, and is a very good indicator that they’re sick.
Closer examination revealed a bit of a diarrhea problem.
Judging from what I’ve read, I’m guessing that the last batch of feeder pigs that we bought happened to bring in PEDV, or Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus, in with them. PEDV has been spreading in Minnesota and Iowa, and I figured it was only a matter of time before our pigs caught the bug.
PEDV is deadly to very young pigs, but it shouldn’t have much effect on our pigs, as they’re (mostly) full grown. After they kick the bug, they’ll be immune, and pass that immunity on to their future piglets.
For now they’re staying in bed.
Sorry about the disease, Andrew. It does look like it’s going to be difficult to keep out. Continue to let us know about the severity, etc. I’ll feel better with more knowledge as my herd is yet to come down with it.
It’s passed by now, and it wasn’t too bad. They were back on their feed within 2 days.