What You Need to Know Before Adopting a Mini Farm Animal

Seeing a TikTok of a baby, mini pig snoozing on someone’s lap or a mini cow romping in a field can make just about anyone think, “Omg, I want one.” However, while mini pigs, cows, and goats can be wonderful pets for those with the right resources, they aren’t a good fit for most pet parents.

Some people adopt mini farm animals without realizing they don’t stay as “mini” as expected, or without understanding their specific care needs. This often leads to these animals being surrendered to shelters and sanctuaries.

In this guide, we’ll take a close look at what it really takes to care for mini farm animals, so you can determine if you have the space, resources, and time to provide them with a healthy, happy life.

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Adopting a mini pig

A mini pig is not a specific breed of pig — it refers to any pig that has been selectively bred to be smaller in size. Common mini pig breeds include the Vietnamese pot-bellied, the Kune Kune, and the Juliana. Caring for a mini pig is far more challenging than caring for a dog or a cat. Here are some key points to consider before adopting a mini pig.

Size

Mini pigs aren’t good house pets. Although mini pigs start small as piglets, they can weigh between 50 and 200 pounds when fully grown (which takes about three years). Their size, along with their natural behaviors, often makes indoor-only living a challenge.

Behavior and enrichment 

Pigs are naturally curious, intelligent animals. They need almost constant mental stimulation and space to explore. Toys, foraging and rooting games, and training sessions are good ways to keep their minds active and prevent boredom-related behavior issues. Without enough activity and space, they might become destructive, rooting through furniture or chewing on household items.

Mini pigs are also deceptively strong and nearly impossible to move. They typically won’t go anywhere unless they want to. And they’ll tell you about it too. Pigs can be quite loud when they communicate, using a variety of grunts and squeals.

Oh, and be sure human food and toxic items are out of reach, as pigs will try to eat anything and everything. 

Lifespan

Mini pigs can live up to 20 years (and some even longer), meaning adopting one is a long-term commitment that requires careful consideration of your future plans and the ability to care for them throughout their life.

Social needs

Mini pigs are social creatures. They thrive with company, ideally with other pigs. Their social nature means they may become anxious or stressed if left alone for long periods. So, plan on adopting at least two mini pigs to keep each other company. Pigs can display antagonistic behaviors when unfamiliar animals are in the mix, so it’s best to introduce new pigs slowly and supervise them closely.

Diet

Mini pigs require commercially available, nutritionally balanced, pelleted chow that’s formulated for mini-pigs. They consume about one cup of pellets per 50 pounds of body weight. 

The chow should also be supplemented with fresh lettuce and fresh or frozen vegetables. Fruit, starchy veggies, and treats must be limited to maintain a healthy weight. Avoid dog food, cat food, meat, and farm-hog food, because these options are unhealthy for pigs. 

Space and housing 

Most mini pigs are happiest living outdoors — although many enjoy indoor naps, too. Here’s the type of housing you’ll need for your pig:

• A spacious, fenced yard to explore, play, and root around in (with lots of shade) that’s about 400 square feet per pig

• A shelter (with at least three sides) lined with timothy hay for outdoor naps or bad weather

• Constant access to fresh drinking water

• A shallow kiddie pool for splashing

• A mud pit for wallowing

Healthcare

Pigs need vaccinations, hoof trims, and parasite control. They also often require ear, eye, and teeth cleaning. Pigs are susceptible to extreme temperatures due to their lack of sweat glands and thin hair coat. Depending on where you live, finding a veterinarian experienced with pigs may be challenging.

Adopting a mini cow 

A mini cow is a smaller breed of domesticated cattle, selectively bred to be much smaller than traditional full-sized cows. But the term “mini” when applied to a cow doesn’t mean “small enough to pick up and cuddle like a Corgi.” They’re still cows. 

Mini cows can make excellent farm pets if you have the space, resources, and time for them. They’re generally calm, gentle, curious, playful, and social animals. But there are important factors to consider before deciding if a mini cow is the right pet for you. Here are some key aspects of mini cow care.

Size

Adult mini cows generally weigh between 500 to 800 pounds. The largest are about 48 inches tall at the hip, while the smallest are 36 inches or less. Popular mini cow breeds include Miniature Herefords, Dexters, and Miniature Highlands.

Despite their size differences and requiring a bit less space, the needs of a mini cow are essentially the same as those of a traditional farm cow.

Lifespan

Mini cows typically live from 12 to 25 years, so anyone looking to get one as a pet has to make a long-term commitment to their care. 

Social needs

Mini cows are herd animals and should have the company of at least one other cow. Being with their own kind helps reduce stress and keeps them socially content. If kept alone, mini cows can become lonely, leading to behavioral problems. So, if you consider adopting a mini cow, plan on getting at least two. 

Diet 

Mini cows require a diet of high-quality hay or fresh pasture. They may also need supplements or grain-based feed to meet their nutrient requirements, especially in winter, when grazing is limited. 

Each day, mini cows typically consume two to three percent of their body weight in dry matter. For a 600-pound mini cow, this translates to about 12 to 18 pounds of feed daily. You’ll also need to make sure they always have access to clean, fresh water to keep them hydrated. 

Space and housing requirements

Mini cows require access to a fenced pasture — at least one acre per mini cow — where they can graze freely. A barn or sturdy shelter should also be available to give them a safe place to rest or take cover during extreme weather conditions. The shelter should have at least three sides and be large enough that each animal can lie down comfortably. 

Healthcare

Mini cows need regular veterinary care, including vaccinations, parasite control, and hoof trimming to maintain their health. Depending on your area, finding a veterinarian who treats mini cows can be challenging.

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Adopting dwarf goats 

Most dwarf goat parents would agree that they make wonderful farm pets. They are friendly, curious, and playful animals, and enjoy interaction with humans and other goats. However, like any animal, they aren’t suitable for everyone. While they’re easier to care for than larger farm animals, dwarf goats still need commitment and attention to stay healthy and happy.

The most popular types of dwarf goats are the Nigerian Dwarf goat and the American Pygmy goat. Dwarf goats have specific needs and unique personalities, and it’s important to consider the following factors before adopting one. 

Size

Dwarf goats are bred to be much smaller than standard goat breeds. Adult dwarf goats are typically less than 19 inches tall and weigh about 75 pounds.

Lifespan 

Dwarf goats typically live between 10 to 15 years, so adopting one is a long-term commitment that requires planning and dedication.

Behavior and enrichment 

Despite their small size, dwarf goats have big personalities and love to climb, socialize, investigate their surroundings, and play. They’re intelligent and can easily become bored if not given enough mental stimulation. A bored goat may engage in negative behaviors like escaping, being destructive, and bullying other animals.

As such, goat enrichment is vital. A pet parent should invest in ramps or platforms, large spools for jumping, treat-dispensing toys, hanging toys, scratching posts, and soccer balls. 

Social needs

Keeping just one goat is unfair to the animal, regardless of how much time you spend with them. Goats are herd animals and become very anxious when left alone. If you have other herd animals like horses or llamas, a goat might integrate well with them. Otherwise, plan on adopting at least two goats to keep each other company.

Diet

Miniature goat breeds do best on a diet of grass hay — typically around three pounds a day for an adult. Goats also need to obtain essential minerals from a mineral lick (a.k.a. a salt lick), which can be purchased from your local produce or stock store. Constant access to fresh water should be available, too. 

Space and housing 

Despite their smaller size, they still need plenty of room to frolic and graze. It’s recommended you provide at least 250 square feet per goat.

Additionally, they need a sturdy shelter with at least three enclosed sides to protect them from harsh weather conditions. This shelter should be spacious enough for all the goats to lie down comfortably. 

Healthcare 

Your goats will require regular veterinary care, including vaccinations, deworming, and check-ups. Additionally, their hooves will need periodic trimming to keep them healthy. Depending on your area, finding a veterinarian who treats goats can be difficult. 

How to adopt a mini farm animal 

If you’ve done your research and have determined that you have the space, resources, desire, and time to care for a mini farm animal for their entire life — it’s time to adopt. The first step is to confirm that your local government or HOA will allow you to have a farm animal. Many areas classify them as livestock, which can make it illegal to keep them as pets in a suburban or urban setting.

Once you have the green light, search for a local sanctuary or rescue that has mini farm animals for adoption. The sanctuary or rescue will likely ask you to fill out paperwork and charge you an adoption fee ranging from $100 to $350. You can also find mini farm animals available for adoption at Adopt a Pet.

Commonly asked questions

Can you have farm animals in the city? 

Local zoning laws and regulations dictate if you can keep farm animals on your property in the city, and if so, how you should accommodate them. Farm animals are generally best suited for those with a large outdoor space or who live in rural areas. 

Which farm animals are low maintenance? 

While no farm animal is truly easy to care for, chickens, ducks, and dwarf goats are typically easier to care for than larger farm animals such as pigs and cows. 

How can you find farm-animal rescue organizations?

Use search engines or social media to find rescues or sanctuaries that offer farm animals for adoption. You can also use websites like Adopt a Pet to search for adoptable farm animals near you.

Do farm animals get along with cats and dogs? 

Generally, cats and dogs will coexist peacefully with farm animals. Working cats and working dogs are quite common on farms. However, proper training, monitoring, and gradual introductions are key to helping cats, dogs, and farm animals harmonious.

Should you neuter pet farm animals? 

Neutering pet farm animals prevents unwanted pregnancies (if males and females are together) and often makes the animals easier to manage. Consult a vet to determine if neutering is right for your farm pet.

Are mini Highland Cows good pets?

Mini Highland Cows can be good pets for those with enough space and resources. They are gentle and social, and very cute. However, they need ample grazing area, proper shelter, and regular veterinary care.

Which farm animals make good pets? 

Chickens, ducks, and dwarf goats can make good pets for those with the resources to care for them properly. They have more manageable care requirements compared to larger livestock. Pigs and cows also make great pets, but their care is more demanding. 

Resources

29 Inexpensive Goat Toys for Enrichment and Entertainment

Creating an Enriching Life for Cows

Feeding Your Mini-Pig

A Guide to Potbellied Pigs as Pets

“Herd” of Miniature Cattle?

Housing and Environment for Your Mini-Pig 

How Much Space Do Pigs Need? 

Keeping Miniature Goats as Pets — The Ultimate Guide

Pigs as Pets — What to Know Before Adopting a Mini Pig

The Truth About Teacup Mini Cows: A Guide for New Mini Cattle Farmers