Yes, not only can pet pigs eat fish, they love it, and it has some great health benefit for them, but it should be offered carefully and in moderation.  Pigs are omnivores, meaning they can digest both plant and animal-based foods. In fact, fish oil has historically been used in some pig feeds as a source of highly available protein and phosphorus. However, for pet pigs the foundation of the diet should be a complete pot-belly pig pellet, along with appropriate vegetables and controlled treats. (merckvetmanual.com)

Fish can provide useful nutrients such as high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA, which are commonly associated with fish oil, marine algae, fish meal, and whole fish ingredients in animal diets. Omega-3 fats are often discussed for their role in supporting normal inflammatory balance, skin, coat, and general health, although dosing and need should be discussed with a veterinarian.

Safe Fish Options for Pet Pigs

If you choose to feed fish to a pet pig, the safest options are usually:

• Plain cooked salmon
• Plain cooked sardines
• Plain cooked cod
• Plain cooked tilapia
• Plain cooked trout
• Water-packed canned fish, such as sardines or salmon, if low-sodium or water and free of added seasonings

This fish should be fully cooked, boneless, and unseasoned. Avoid butter, oil, salt, garlic, spicy seasoning, sauces, breading, or smoked fish. These additions are unnecessary and may upset the pig’s stomach or contribute to excess calories.

How much Fish is Appropriate?

Fish should be treated as an occasional treat, not a main food. Pet pigs are very prone to weight gain, and high-energy foods and treats should be limited. Nutritional guidance emphasizes that pet pigs need controlled calories and a balanced, high-fiber diet to help prevent obesity and related joint problems. (merckvetmanual.com)

A practical guideline for many pet pigs is:

Offer a small bite-sized portion of plain cooked fish occasionally, such as once a week or less, unless your veterinarian recommends otherwise.

The exact amount depends on the pig’s size, age, body condition, activity level, and overall diet.

Fish to Avoid

Pet Pigs should not be given:

• Raw fish
• Fish with bones
• Fried fish
• Breaded fish
• Smoked fish
• Salted or heavily seasoned fish
• Fish cooked with butter or sauce
• Spoiled fish or table scraps
• Large amounts of oily fish
• Fish intended as bait
• Fish from questionable water sources

Raw or spoiled animal products can increase the risk of digestive upset or exposure to harmful bacteria or parasites. Bones can also pose a choking or injury risk.

Learn More:

1. Nutritional Requirements of Pigs- Management and Nutrition- Merck Veterinary Manual
2. Fish oil in Pet Diets and Supplements/ Today’s Veterinary Practice
3. Feeding and Nutrition of Miniature Pet Pigs- Exotic and Laboratory Animals- Merck Veterinary Manual
4. Feeding Your Mini- Pig/ VCA Animal Hospitals
5. Mini Pig Nutrition and Weight Management- PubMed