Pregnant sow tries climbing out when excited

[Little Piglets]

She learned early on she could "climb" out of things if spooked (bathing container) or more like jump vertical and almost on me. She's roughly 8-10 weeks pregnant now, but about 3 weeks ago, while cleaning her bedding out (I left her in the cage like always; usually she'd popcorn during changes) she reacted differently, and tried scaling her 12" cage wall (open top) and I stopped her midway, but had to lift her out, then put her back. Decided to do a cover over most of the cage, and have 2 metal screen sections for the area need access to, and selectively remove bedding while she's eating so she's distracted (not interested in handling her while this pregnant).

Just now, while cutting a cucumber slice with my back turned and making my "what what" gp sound effects, it appeared she either tried jumping, or her belly weight put her off balance and she fell over (she's OK).

Is there ANY way to discourage her from doing this? I don't give veggie treats while she's standing up (squirrel standing in open space I will, but not with front paws on the cage side) and instead put the treat down near her bowl or hand feed when she's on all 4. About the only thing I can think of is keeping cover on 24/7 and removing it after veggies/treats are cut. I don't want to make the walls higher, as I don't think that would help.

 

[Betsy]

You have got a little adventurer there haven't you? Sorry can't give any advice as my lot are in a hutch and don't climb. Just bumping up this thread for you in case it got missed today.

 

[Little Piglets]

Thanks. From what I can tell, she definitely doesn't like the bedding changed (while pregnant). Had to do a full change again yesterday (did half, refill, then did other half) and she was eyeing the cage wall nearest me, so I calmed her with petting and refilling her pellet bowl. All seemed fine (she was on all fours near pellets), and I started saying "treats" while prepping a cucumber slice and she tried scaling it again. Thankfully caught her right away.

Guess I'll have to leave a cover over the top during/after cage cleanings.

I did discover that my gp do NOT like the smell of hand sanitizer. Like a small amount on hands, and about 6" from cage wall when she's standing up poking nose through bars, and she immediately went to other end of cage. So scents they don't like seems to work as a deterrent.