It can be a challenge to ensure pig residents have healthy, happy lives after

coming to a sanctuary, and there are many different aspects of care to consider
each day. Unfortunately, toxic and poisonous hazards are sometimes overlooked
in the hustle and bustle of operating a sanctuary. While minor exposure to many
of these toxins are unlikely to cause serious problems, large amounts can cause
severe health issues and sadly, even death. There are also some toxins that are
highly dangerous even in small amounts.

In order to help ensure you never run into this problem, we have compiled this
resource of common plants and other potentially toxic things that have been
known to be a problem for pigs.

Ask About Activated Charcoal

While prevention is imperative when it comes to protecting your residents from toxins, in
the event that they accidentally ingest something toxic, the administration of an activated
charcoal product may help absorb the toxins. This is not a magic cure and may not be
appropriate in all situations, but it can be helpful to have on hand. We suggest asking your
veterinarian if there are specific products they recommend for the various species in your
care so you can have them ready should you need them. In addition to seeking urgent
medical care, if a resident ingests a toxin, ask your veterinarian if administration of
activated charcoal is advised.

Plants That Are Toxic To Pigs

Please see The Open Sanctuary Project’s Global Toxic Plant Database and

filter Species Afflicted by pigs in order to see a list of plants across the world
that are toxic to pigs. Please note that, while comprehensive, this list may not
contain every single plant toxic to pigs!

Other Potential Pig Toxins

Algae

Blue-green algae, which is most often found in stagnant, slow-moving water

when temperatures are high, can poison pigs. Symptoms generally develop quite
rapidly and may resemble an allergic reaction. Convulsions may occur, but more
frequently the a pig may sink to the ground, and die without struggling. Smaller
amounts of poison cause weakness and staggering, followed by recovery. In
some instances, apparent recovery from an attack is followed in a few days or
weeks by evidence of photosensitization. There may be inflammation of the
muzzle, the skin of the ear, the udder, or other parts of the body. Jaundice is
often seen, and constipation is a common symptom. Such cases usually recover
under good care.

Cantharidiasis (Blister Beetle Poisoning)

Blister beetles contain cantharidin, a toxic substance that is used as a defense

mechanism against predators. There are more than 200 different species, and
they can be found from Mexico to Southern Canada, and from the east coast of
the United States as far west as New Mexico. Cantharidin can severely injure or
kill pigs when even a small amount is ingested. Pigs come into contact with
cantharidin by ingesting alfalfa hay that has been infested by blister beetles. The
oily substance can contaminate the hay even if the beetles were crushed into the
feedstuff. Crushing or chemically eradicating the beetles does not diminish the
toxin potency.

Inspecting individual flakes of alfalfa hay before providing them to residents can
help reduce the likelihood of poisoning. Dispose of any contaminated flakes,
even if you have removed the beetle, as the toxin can still be left behind.  First-
cutting hay is less likely to be contaminated than hay harvested later in the year,
as the insects likely haven’t yet swarmed by then. Harvest alfalfa before it fully
blooms to reduce the chances of beetle contamination. Hay is less likely to be
contaminated by crushed beetles when harvested with a self-propelled mower or
windrower. Crimping hay crushes the beetles into the hay.

Pigs that ingest a massive amount of toxin may show signs of severe shock, and
unfortunately, die within hours. Symptoms of sublethal poisoning include
depression, diarrhea, elevated temperatures, increased pulse and breathing rates,
and dehydration. There is also frequent urination, especially after the first 24
hours. If cantharidin poisoning is suspected, a veterinarian should be contacted
immediately.

If you suspect Blister Beetle Poisoning, contact your veterinarian

immediately. If early veterinary care is provided, afflicted pigs have a chance of
recovery.
Hardware Disease

Hardware Disease refers to the injuries that can result from any animal resident
eating something they shouldn’t, especially pieces of human-made hardware like
nails, screws, and staples. Hardware disease can have devastating effects on
any resident. Check out our resource on Hardware Disease prevention here .

Lead Toxicity

Lead was once used in paints and pesticides, and can also be found from natural
environmental sources. Even if you have never used any products containing
lead, it may still be present in old barn or fence paint, or in the soil. Places where
old machinery and leaded gas have been stored may also have caused
contamination, as would old treated lumber and railroad ties. Pigs may ingest the
lead in the environment through the consumption of grass, clover, and dandelion
or from chewing or licking on tainted surfaces.

Having the soil tested at your sanctuary is an easy way to learn if the
environment is safe for residents. You can check with a local environmental
conservation service, or agricultural extension office to inquire about testing. It is
usually a fairly quick and easy process. Prevent your residents from accessing
buildings and fences with old paint, as they may chew or lick these objects and
ingest lead.

Pigs with low levels of lead toxicity do not generally exhibit signs. In severe
cases, you may see the following symptoms:

o loss of appetite
o weight loss
o lethargy and weakness
o incoordination
o anemia
o unusual manure consistency or diarrhea
o respiratory distress or blindness
Consult a veterinarian immediately if you suspect a pig has ingested lead or is
beginning to show symptoms of lead poisoning.

Mycotoxins

Mycotoxins are a toxin produced by molds (fungi) that are harmful to many
animals. Mycotoxins can affect pigs through contaminated food or bedding.
Moist, warm environments make a perfect recipe for mold reproduction. The type
and amount of mycotoxin a pig digests affects whether the health issues are
immediate and short-lived or may become chronic issues. Pregnant pigs and
young pigs are more susceptible. Some general signs of poisoning include:

o appetite loss
o weight loss
o respiratory issues
o increased susceptibility to infectious diseases (poor immune function)
o poor growth rate
Prevention is key in avoiding serious health issues. Luckily, there are a number of
steps you can take to help ensure resident pigs do not suffer the ill effects of
mycotoxin poisoning:

o Be sure to keep food, grain, and hay storage areas clean, dry, and cool.
o Try to keep food storage areas protected from mice and rats and other
wildlife, as they can chew holes in food bags, increasing the likelihood of
grain being exposed to damp conditions.
o Always feed the oldest sources of food first. Try to use up open food bags
within a few weeks after opening in the winter and in even less time in the
summer.
o Clean any storage bins or cans thoroughly to remove old grain that may
get stuck in cracks and crevices.
o Check with your food manufacturer or supplier to see if they regularly test
for the presence of mycotoxins in grains before mixing food. If they do not,
avoid using them and find another supplier.
If you are concerned about the possibility of mycotoxin contamination, have your
food stores tested. This could be especially important if you have a pig that
shows initial signs of mycotoxin exposure.

Pesticides, Herbicides, And Rodenticides

It may not come as a surprise that herbicides and rodenticides can cause
toxicosis in pigs if ingested. If pigs ingest plants that have been sprayed with
phenoxy acid herbicides, they can become ill or even die. For this reason, it is
imperative that pigs are not given treated plants or are allowed access to
pastures that have been treated with herbicides.

While rats and mice can pose challenges for sanctuaries, it is important to
respect them and use compassionate mitigation practices. Many rodenticides
are anticoagulants and act by preventing the blood to clot. These products may
be appealing to pigs as well, and they may attempt to lick or eat them if
discovered. For this reason, it is imperative that they do not come into contact
with these poisons. There are many new and innovative ways to address rodent
populations that are more effective and compassionate.

Pesticides may affect the nervous system in pigs and can be fatal if not treated
with the antidote. Early treatment is critical. If you suspect pigs may have
ingested any of the poisons above, contact your veterinarian immediately. Blood
tests may confirm poisoning.

Salt Poisoning 

Salt poisoning can occur in pigs either as a consequence of water deprivation or

from sudden ingestion of too much salt. Following sudden heavy rains, salt
poisoning can occur in pigs after ingestion of salty brine from overflowing, loose-
salt boxes provided for other animals. Symptoms include:

o aimless wandering
o blindness
o deafness
o head pressing
 o pigs sometimes “dog-sit”
o slowly raising nose upward and backward
o falling on side in spasms
o paddling of the legs 
o Gastroenteritis is more likely in pigs consuming salty brine and may be
accompanied by diarrhea.
Poisoning in water-deprived pigs can occur in pigs consuming a proper level of
salt but it is more likely if the salt level in the feed is excessive. Signs often are
precipitated, or worsened, by allowing the pigs sudden, unlimited access to
water. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian if you suspect salt poisoning-
affected individuals must be rehydrated slowly. They absolutely must not have
access to unrestricted water or the situation will become much worse. Water
deprivation can occur for many reasons, but commonly may be the result of
freezing of the water source, plugged water nipples, or inadvertently leaving a
water valve closed. 

Selenium

Selenium is a highly toxic element when taken in quantities larger than what is
needed for normal metabolism. Selenium is a unique trace element in that
toxicity can occur at concentrations only slightly higher than those required for
normal metabolism. In most plants, the level of selenium is related to levels in
the soil. The symptoms of selenium poisoning are: dullness, stiffness of joints,
lameness, loss of hair from their body or tail, and hoof deformities. 

Snakebites

Venomous snakebites are not common, but when they occur, should be treated
seriously and immediately. It is possible for a snake to bite several times, so if
you notice a snakebite, look for others. Snake venom varies by species, and the
severity of a bite can also be influenced by size, age, and the number of bites.
Most venoms can impair blood clotting and damage the heart, while some others
contain neurotoxins. Signs of a snakebite may include:

o pain
 o swelling at the bite site
o one or more puncture wounds
o sloughing of tissues near the bite site
o cardiac arrhythmias
o impaired ability for their blood to clot
o shock
o collapse
o paralysis
o death
Seek veterinary care immediately if a pig is bitten by a venomous snake. Do NOT
try to suck the venom out or place a tourniquet. Keep the pig calm while seeking
immediate veterinary care. Depending on the severity of the bite, treatments may
include antivenin, pain medications, fluid therapy, wound treatment,
tetanus vaccination, and antibiotics. Check out our Compassionate Wildlife
Practices At Your Animal Sanctuary for some tips on how to dissuade snakes
from your property.

Wood Stains And Paints

Some wood stains and paints can be toxic to pigs. Pigs may try to chew on
painted surfaces and can become ill if the stain or paint is toxic. Try and
purchase paints and stains that are specially made for barns and fencing and
listed as animal or “livestock” friendly.

Foods That You Should Not Feed To Pigs

In addition to the above, here are some foods that you should not feed to pigs:

o Almond – Leaves & seeds (only wild or bitter almonds pose a threat)
o Animal products of any kind
o Avocado (the skin and pit especially)
o Cherries
 o Chocolate
o Corn stalks (high in nitrates) 
o Kale
o Nightshade vegetables
o Parsley
o Celery tops
o Parsnip tops
o Potato
o Raw cashews
o Tomato leaves and vine
o Un-pitted stone fruits (the pits can lodge in the intestines)
o Unshelled walnuts (shards of cracked shells may pierce the pharynx
Pigs Should Not Eat Processed Foods
Although there is a common narrative that pigs will happily eat any leftovers of human
foods, such as baked goods and other processed items, you should not feed these things to
pigs! Processed foods are ultimately not going to provide pigs with the appropriate nutrition
and responsible caloric density for their needs, and can contribute to a number of health
issues such as obesity and foot problems.

While this list isn’t exhaustive, it can certainly help you keep resident pigs safe,
healthy, and happy!

SOURCES:

Is There Lead In Your Pasture? | Of Horse

Animal Friendly Barn And Fence Paint For Horse Stalls | Stuff For Petz

Toxic Food and Plants | American Mini Pig 

Blister Beetles | North Carolina State University Extension Service (Non-

Compassionate Source)   
The Danger Of Mycotoxins | The Horse (Non-Compassionate Source)

Toxin Topic: Snakebites And Horses | The Horse (Non-Compassionate Source)

Plants Poisonous To Livestock In The Southern US | University Of Arkansas  

Plants Poisonous to Livestock | Cornell Department Of Animal Science 

(Non-Compassionate Source)

Plants Poisonous To Livestock In The Western States | USDA

(Non-Compassionate Source)

Guide To Poisonous Plants | Colorado State University  (Non-Compassionate

Source)

Salt Poisoning | Iowa State University (Non-Compassionate Source)

Formulating Pig Diets: Selenium toxicity, deficiency | WattAgNet