Constant Bum Sniffing

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gingersusie

gingersusie

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hi there
i have two sows in a very large cage indoors, they are put in a run indoors too for exercise daily, i have had them for 2 years now and they seem fine however i've notice that the younger of the two is now constantly sniffing the older sows bum all the time? the older one then gets fed up and then turns and nose butts her in the face? this has been going on now for 2 weeks or so, i thought it was because they were in season but now it's nearly constant, there's lots of squeaking and rumbling going on too , they have never been a cuddle up and sleep together pair but they are quite close as the follow each other when they are out free ranging, is this just a phase they go through? theres been no biting or aggressive behaviour as i watch them constantly now? any ideas?
 
One of the sows may be having a hormonal phase/developing ovarian cysts. This is about the age when these things can start.
 
I would keep just an eye on them, and hopefully it will die down again. Have them checked by a vet if problems persist or if the aggravation level goes up. There are more options available these days that do not require a full spaying operation (like hormone therapy), so it is not quite the worry that it used to be. Ovarian cysts are pretty common; many you never notice as they don't give any trouble.
 
Is she just sniffing her bum or is she looking for edible poos. My piggy, Minky did this a lot when she was poorly & was really chasing the others around to get some edible poo. She may need some sort of supplement like Fibreplex but if in doubt please contact your vet. Is her weight stable at present? This is the main indicator of something being wrong. Might not be this but just speaking from experience as it has happened with Minky several times.
 
Thanks for replies . Weight of both is stable . Weighed once a week. Both have bright eyes and lively shiny coats so they look ok. They have been fine today , no chasing or butt sniffing :mal:
I'll keep an eye on them both anyway and see what happens.
If they do it constantly I'll take them to the vets
Thanks guys :D
 
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