How to Build a Hog Self Feeder

The phrase “pigging out” is used when someone overindulges and eats too much. It’s no coincidence that overeating is linked to hogs, because most hogs are allowed to eat as much as they like all day long. Hogs are free-fed to make sure they gain as much weight as possible before they’re sent to market. Building a hog self-feeder makes it simple to keep fresh feed available at all times for your hungry hogs.

Cut an empty 55-gallon barrel in half lengthwise with a saw. This will separate the barrel into two long troughs. Drill 15 or 20 small drain holes along the bottom of the troughs to keep the feed dry.

Use the saw to cut two, 4-inch long slits in one end of each PVC pipe. These slits allow the feed to flow down and fill up the trough as the hogs eat.

Set two PVC sections inside each trough, approximately 6 inches from each end. Hold the pipe against the back of the trough, and draw a short vertical line on the trough to indicate the placement of the pipes. Cut a small slit through the trough over each line.

Hold the first pipe in place with one hand, and thread a zip tie or piece of wire through the slits and around the pipe. Tighten the tie or wire and trim away any excess. Repeat with the remaining three pipes.

Move the feeders to the hog pen and fill each pipe to the top with hog feed. Cover each pipe with an end cap to prevent moisture from coming in contact with the feed.