BackYardHerds Forum

Pigs often cough.  They usually are eating feed that is quite dusty, and I think that's why.  They also root around in straw and dirt, and probably inhale some small particles.  This would make any animal cough a bit.  Another possibility is that it has a case of roundworms. 

Roundworms (Ascarids) lay thousands of eggs each day.  These eggs are infective for several years, and when an animal ingests them, the eggs hatch in the intestinal tract.  The resulting larva migrate througn the liver and eventually into the lungs, where they are coughed up and swallowed.  They then re-enter the intestinal tract, where they mature, and begin to lay thousands of eggs each day.  There are many treatments for roundworms that work well.  In my experience, one of the safest and most effective is Ivomec.  Ivomec is effective on many internal as well as external parasites.  Many pigs have a subclinical case of mange, and the Ivomec will do a great job of eliminating that.

Veterinarians or farm supply stores usually handle it.  It comes in many forms, but the injectable form is usually used in pigs.  Inject it right behind the ear.  If I remember correctly, it takes 1cc (ml) per 50 lbs, but you should read the directions to make sure.  A little overdose will not harm them.  I think it's quite inexpensive.  I used to buy a bottle for around $40.  Might be even cheaper now, since the patent has expired.