change in behaviour

[ellie_jo3213]

Over the last couple of weeks, piggy has been acting odd. I would stroke the side of her face, and she would make a rumbling sound whilst she would walk rub past my hand (much like a cat rubbing against your leg) and the hair along her back would stand on end!
I've found the noise she makes on a recording clip on the internet, and it was described as purring.
Its very strange behaviour as she is not really a very nice pig, she bits and snaps at my hands when I normally pet her.
Could this be her turning a corner and becoming a bit more friendly?

 

[JackyB]

My poppy does that if she doesn't want pebbles near her- i think it's her way of saying leave me alone. It may not be what your piggy is doing but it sounds similar?!

 

[Suzygpr]

More friendly? Sort of - she's trying to dominante you. Dominant pigs nuzzle the cheeks/mouth of the submissive pig. She might feel that you're challenging her superiority by tickling her face, she may well give you a nip to put you back in your place! Most females only behave like this when meeting a new pig, are in season and very hormonal or are just plain stroppy. Does she treat her cagemate in the same way?

If you give her long, firm strokes she will enjoy it, submit and probably settle a lot quicker - you have to be the boss!

Suzy x