Pigs Eat Egg Shells

Can Pigs Eat Egg Shells?

Livestock feed has become very expensive and farmers are now resorting to finding alternative food sources for their pigs. In this article we are going to be discussing whether egg shells can make a good substitute for livestock feed.

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Can Pigs Eat Egg Shells

Yes, pigs can eat egg shells however, they cannot be used as a substitute for livestock feed. This is because they do not meet the energy requirements of these animals. When giving egg shells to pigs its best to offer them as snacks rather than as a substitute for their feed. Furthermore, the egg shells should be broken down into smaller pieces so that your livestock do not choke on them. An alternative way of giving egg shells to your pigs is to mix them in their usual feed.

Health Benefits Of Egg Shells To Pigs

Good Source Of Calcium

One of the best health benefits of egg shells to pigs is that it is a good source of calcium. This mineral is important for bone formation, so if you want your pigs to have strong and health bones, you can add egg shells to their diet.

Contains Magnesium

Another health benefit of egg shells to pigs is that they contain magnesium. Although the percentage of magnesium found in egg shells is small, it can actually boost the immune system of these animals. Magnesium helps to support muscle function and energy production.

Contains Selenium

Egg shells contain a limited percentage of selenium which helps with to boost the immune system. It also helps with the growth of liver in a pig’s body.

How To Give Egg Shells To Pigs

The best way to give egg shells to pigs is to grind them. This helps to ensure that your animals do not choke on them. You can mix the egg shells into their original food since some pigs tend to be picky eaters. When giving eggshells to these animals, make sure that you offer them in moderate amounts since they have a risk of causing digestive problems when offered in excess. It is also worth highlighting that egg shells from chickens are the best to feed your pigs as other types of egg shells may turn out to be poisonous for them.

What To Avoid When Giving Egg Shells To Pigs

When giving egg shells to your pigs its best that you sterilize them first. This helps to get rid of any unwanted bacteria. You should also make sure that there are no raw eggs on the egg shells as pigs are allergic to raw eggs. This is mainly because raw egg contain a chemical known as avidin that prevents biotin absorption. Biotin is an important component in the diets of pigs and a deficiency of it can lead to reproductive problems or foot issues. Therefore, always make sure you remove any eggs from your shells before offering them to your animals.

Can Pigs Eat Whole Raw Eggs?

Unfortunately pigs cannot eat whole raw eggs. This is mainly because they will choke on them. Furthermore, whole raw eggs contain avidin that prevents absorption of biotin which is needed by these animals. When you feed raw eggs to these animals, there is a chance that they will either choke, develop reproductive problems or develop foot issues. So if you want to keep your animal’s healthy, make sure you never offer then whole raw eggs.

Will Pigs Eat Rotten Eggs?

No pigs cannot eat rotten eggs. This is because rotten eggs contain bacteria which can cause gastric distress in pigs. Therefore, if you have rotten eggs in your house, you should throw them in the bin and never offer them to your animals.

Can Pigs Eat Yolks?

Yes, pigs can eat yolks provided they are cooked. When giving yolks to these animals make sure that you mash them up so that your animals so not choke on them.

What Should You Not Feed A Pig

Whilst pigs are not necessarily picky eaters, there are some things you should avoid feeding them as they can have adverse effects on their health. For starters never feed meat to your pigs as their stomachs are unable to digest meat fully. You should also avoid giving them things like fish, bones, oils or even raw eggs.

Are Eggs Healthy For Pigs?

Yes, eggs are very healthy for pigs. This is mainly because they calcium which helps to build strong bones. They also contain small amounts of magnesium and selenium which play a part in boosting the immune system.

Can Pigs Eat Banana Peels?

Yes, pigs can eat banana peels however, they should consume them in moderate quantities. This is because excessive consumption of this fruit can cause stomach problems for them. Banana peels should never be used as a substitute for livestock feed for these animals as they cannot meet the dietary needs of pigs. Furthermore, the banana peels should be cut into smaller pieces so that the animals do not choke on them.

Is Raw Cabbage Good For Pigs?

Yes, raw cabbage is good for pigs. This is mainly because it is filled with many vitamins and minerals. When feeding cabbages to these animals, make sure that you do not use them as a standalone feed as they do not contain all the vitamins and nutrients needed by these animals to grow. Furthermore, always ensure that you cut the cabbages so that your animals so not choke.

Are Raw Carrots Good For Pigs?

Yes, raw carrots are good for pigs. This is because they contain many vitamins and minerals that boost the immune system of these animals. It is worth pointing out that carrots may never be used as a substitute for livestock feed as they do not meet the dietary needs of pigs. Therefore, you can always offer them as snacks to your animals.

Final Words

Egg shells are a good source of calcium for your pigs. Therefore, you can always crush them and add them to their diet. Always remember that raw eggs may never be offered to these animals as they have negative effects.