No, it’s not a new lard based hair gel, it’s an actual medical condition that pigs can develop. “Dippity Pig” is the name for a syndrome in pigs, characterized by painful, bleeding sores down the back, hind-end weakness, and sometimes fever. It is thought to be a virus, although the exact organism has not been isolated yet. There is some evidence to suggest it’s a herpes virus, as the lesions do show near nerve roots where herpes viruses lie dormant. Plus, the pain levels also suggest nerve involvement. The disease is mostly seen in pet pigs, but that may be because most commercial hogs don’t live beyond a year. 

Dippity Pig is very similar to Erythema Multiforme, a viral skin disease that has long been recognized in commercial pigs. In fact, some scientists believe they are one in the same. Without further research into the cause of Dippity Pig, there is a lot we still don’t know yet. Thankfully, it appears it’s non-life threatening, but to pig owners it’s distressing to see. 

 

The onset of Dippity Pig can be very rapid. Your pig may be fine one day and squealing in pain unable to stand the next. One of the tell-tale signs is a “dipping” of the hind end when attempting to walk. Affected pigs will often hunch their back and tuck in their tail. This may progress to a splay-legged stance in the hindlimbs, with the pigs crawling around, pulling themselves with their forelimbs. They often squeal in pain if touched or even if you blow a puff of air on their back. The overall symptoms vary from pig to pig, some have all the classic signs, some only have one or two. 

    

The other characteristic sign of Dippity Pig is bleeding sores along the back, especially in the lower back and hip region. The skin along the back becomes extremely painful and sensitive. Some pigs even appear as if they have been scratched by something. These sores usually run across the back side-to-side as opposed to ear-to-tail. The rest of the skin along the topline may be reddened, crusted, or otherwise irritated.

It is unclear whether pigs drop their hind end due to the severe pain of the skin along their backs, or whether the virus also affects the spinal cord and pigs lose control of the nerves that go to the hind limbs. These pigs are obviously very sensitive to touch and will even vocalize in pain if their backs are palpated. However, some affected pigs certainly appear as if they are physically unable to stand in the hind end. 

     

Pigs affected by this disease may have a fever and all the signs that go along with it. This includes acting lethargic, going “off feed,” and just generally being puny. Oddly enough, many pigs eat, drink, and poop normally even when afflicted. Fevers are a common sign of a virus. Your pig’s fever may spike and then drop, so don’t rule out Dippity Pig because your pig’s temperature is normal. Remember, if your pig ever spikes a fever over 103.0 degrees, you should always call your vet. 

 

 The good news about Dippity Pig is that it is usually a self-limiting virus, and lesions resolve in about 7-10 days on average. In the meantime, the signs of Dippity Pig can be managed with anti-inflammatory medication and supportive care. However, since it is likely a virus, there is currently no cure or definitive treatment for the disease. Like the common cold, it just has to run its course. Duration of symptoms can be anywhere from 24-72 hours. Complete recovery is just as spontaneous and mysterious. Spring and summer seem to be the most common times of year for Dippity to occur. More often than not it is younger pigs who are affected – that is pigs under two years of age.

 

There are some anti-inflammatory medications that are known to be safe for use in pigs, and others that are not. Those that are approved for use in pigs include Flunixin Meglumine (generic Banamine), and Meloxicam (generic Mobic, or Metacam). Topical gels and creams can help heal the lesions, like aloe Vera or Vetricyn. 

The most important thing you can do for your pig if Dippity strikes, is to immediately reduce stress, both internal and external. Confine your pig in a suitable temperature for the time of year. A quiet, dark place does a lot to calm your pig. Low music helps to soothe also. Keep your pig well hydrated during the episode. Reassure and comfort your pig often, but complete rest is a must. 

 

There is currently no vaccine available to protect against Dippity Pig. Again, more research will lead to more knowledge in this area and hopefully eventually to a successful vaccine against this disease. What we do know is that Dippity Pig usually happens secondary to stress. “But my pig has a totally stress-free life!” you may say. Well, what is stressful to you may not be the same as what is stressful to a pig.

Common stress-inducing events in pigs include transportation (even short distances, even in an air-conditioned car), change in environment, change in routine, change in feed, farrowing (giving birth), inadequate water supply, excessive exposure to sun, a violent storm, introduction of new pigs, and heat stress. The more you can do to prevent these types of stress in your pig, the better your chances of preventing Dippity Pig. 

 

It’s always wise to contact your vet for an opinion as the Strep suis bacteria can also cause pigs to drag their hind end or have pain in their back end or joints. An actual back injury can mimic some symptoms too. A pig that fell or was thrown by a larger pig can suffer a spinal injury. When in doubt, call your vet.