pig for meat

[Alwayswantchics]

I can't get this out of my head. We just got goats. Now I want a meat pig. How can I bring this up to spouse?

 

[Aacre]

Maybe start with getting your spouse's opinion on the idea of a meat pig. My husband just asked me when he wanted to raise pigs. They are much raise than store bought pork and you can have the joy of raising a pig or you can buy one just about ready for butcher.

 

[Alwayswantchics]

What about the cost? Financially, is it worth it. What does it cost to feed a pig f for 6 months?

 

[Aacre]

I'm still in the process with our first two pigs, but so far, we've been having to buy feed every two weeks, which is roughly $40-43. This will vary depending on cost in your area and what you feed them. I feed mine half cracked corn and half 4 way for pigs. Each is about $10 per 50# bag and it can be cheaper if you buy in bulk! My husband did the cost figuring, but I have already forgotten it. lol I do think that it will be better tasting meat. Another thing to factor in, is whether or not you plan to butcher and dress out yourself or if you will be taking it to a locker plant near you. We are still debating that one ourselves. I don't know if I feel comfortable with cutting it ourselves, but hubby wants to.. I guess we'll see when it comes time.

 

[Alwayswantchics]

I already have a pot belly. Can they both go on 4 way?

 

[Aacre]

I am not sure if pot bellied pigs can have 4-way or not. I don't see a problem with it myself, but it might make it a bit chubbier if it's allowed to have an unlimited supply. It definitely can't hurt to try it- especially if you are sure to get actual 4-way- non-sweetened (there is sweet mix and 4-way). I usually just take what my local ag center gives me- which is a general livestock 4-way.

 

[Crickett]

You want to be careful about feed. I had pigs and was feeding them all-stock feed. They both died from not having enough nutrition. I fed them enough, so it wasn't quantity but quality that was lacking. I'll never do that again! (The feed, I mean, not the pigs! )

 

[squabels]

My wife just begged me till i gave up, i pick the pig up tomarrow. From what i gather the average is $1.75 a pound packaged meat after butcher is paid. With food prices thats not bad, also a bag of old hickory king corn planted gives almost a pound of kernal per stalk. Its what i grow for my chickens and mix with nutritious feed.