Hi,
I am Maryh not Delia,login problem which I will try and sort out.
Yes some gp`s develope dental problems,but the majority do not.Most often the malloclussion is due to another underlying problem i.e. abcess on the jaw making eating difficult,illness or pain which prevents the gp from eating properly.Gp teeth are continuously growing and can overgrow very quickly if the teeth are not used.
Some pigs develop dental problems due to inter breeding.
Hay is a very important part of the diet both for the roughage and it helps to keep the molars ground down.Hard veg such as carrot is helpful as well.
Signs of mouth/dental problems are ,the gp will appear to be hungry and interested in food,and will often snatch it or pick it up,then throw it down.Weight loss of course is the most definitive symptom.It is a good idea to weigh your pigs on a regular basis.maybe twice a week,preferably in the evening.The weight can vary even over one day,but a sudden high loss is indicative of a dental problem
There is no need for you to worry about the piggies teeth unless you think they are not eating properly or have lost weight.
Weight loss and anorexia can be symptoms of other problems so it is important to find a vet that is used to dealing with gp`s.Hopefully you have already sussed out a good vet.but if not,try and find one before you need him/her.Hopefully you may never need a vet because gp`s are basically very healthy animals,and a lot of them sail through life to 7yrs or beyond with no health problems at all.
Make sure the vet you choose is able to do dental work,x rays without sedation.
Do not worry about possible future problems,just enjoy your piggy now.
Mary
