Cabbage is considered one of the most nutritious vegetables that could be given to pigs since it is rich in fiber, Vitamins A and C, and Potassium.
It also contains a good amount of calcium and carbohydrates. It is believed that the combination of these nutrients will provide pigs with the required nutrients they need while they are consuming it.
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Health Benefits Of Cabbage For Pigs
Cabbages are a very good source of vitamin C, vitamin K and fiber. They also contain small amounts of potassium, manganese, iron, calcium and phosphorus. Vitamin C is essential for the production of collagen. Collagen is found in ligaments and tendons as well as in the heart, bones, hair and skin.
Pigs cannot make their own vitamin C but can store enough to last over a year by consuming just a few grams at a time each day. Vitamin K is important for blood clotting and can be found not only in cabbage but also in many green leafy vegetables. Fiber assists in digestion and helps to clean out the digestive tract which promotes proper nutrient absorption and helps to prevent constipation.
Cabbage also contains glucosinolates that have been shown to stimulate the immune system e increase resistance against bacterial infections . This compound is a natural pesticide that protects cabbages from insect damage.
Is Cabbage Toxic To Pigs?
Cabbage leaves are not toxic and can be safely fed to pigs. However, the seeds and stems of cabbage are toxic to pigs and should be removed before feeding the rest of the cabbage to your pig.
They are considered toxic because they contain the toxin which is a phenolic glycoside known as phenylacetaldehyde. Phenylacetaldehyde can be formed during the storage of the cabbage on the stalk. The toxic effects of this chemical include diarrhea, increased thirst and weight loss, hearing loss and reduced muscle tone.
To remove the seeds and stems of cabbage, cut off the root with a knife. Then, place the uncut head onto a wooden cutting board. Holding it firmly at the bottom with your non-cutting hand, make slices to remove the outer leaves of the cabbage while leaving the stem in place.
Once you’ve reached the stem, proceed to slice off additional leaves until you’ve removed all but 1 or 2 inches of stem. Continue cutting until you have reached the other end of the cabbage.
Can Mini Pigs Eat Cabbage?
Mini Pigs enjoy cabbage as much as humans do. In fact, anything you eat your pig will likely enjoy.
Experiment with different types of cabbage and prepare it in a variety of ways to see which preparation your pig prefers.
Cabbage is highly digestible, especially when cooked or juiced for pigs. Most of the nutrients are retained in the final product, so there is little to worry about from feeding cabbage to pigs.
What Vegetables Are Good For Pigs?
Vegetables, of course, are an essential part of the daily diet of hogs, here are some of the most nutritious:
–Cucumber: This low-growing vegetable helps to clean the bowels and keeps the pig’s system moving well.
–Carrot: Highly nutritious for both humans and pigs. It is rich in vitamins, minerals and beta-carotene. Carotenes are known to help with healthy skin and eyes.
-Zucchini: Higher in vitamin C than oranges, it is a good source for pigs just starting to graze.
–Beets: High in minerals and vitamins, it is good for the pig’s system.
–Eggplant: A very good source of zinc and beta-carotene and is a good chelator of heavy metals in the body.
–Broccoli: Good for the liver and other internal organs, this vegetable contains soluble fiber that cleanses the digestive tract, helping a pig with diarrhea have better digestion system. Broccoli can be a fairly high caloric food but that is not an issue with pigs due to their smaller size.
What Pigs Shouldn’t Eat?
It is also extremely important to know what to avoid feeding to your pigs.
Here is a list of what you need to keep away from them:
– Citrus Fruits: Due to their high acidic levels will cause problems to their digestive system.
– Avocado: Avocado contains persin, which is toxic to pigs.
– Chocolate: yes, you read it right, chocolate is bad for your pigs because it contains toxic elements.
– Coffee: I know, it’s a little bit harder to imagine that the pigs could eat coffee, but you need to know that caffeine is considered toxic for them.
– Ivy: yes, even the beautiful flowers can cause problems if ingested.
-Apple seeds: yes, the seeds of apples can cause problems to your pigs, so try to remove them from your food before feeding them to your pigs.
– Tomatoes leaves: they contain a toxic substance called alkaloid tomatine, which is also toxic for some animals.
