Pig Pregnancy Calculator

 

 

Pig Pregnancy Calculator

Plan for your pig's pregnancy with precision

Calculate when your pig is due to give birth with this swine pregnancy calculator. Enter the date of the first breeding below and you will be given expected pregnancy dates so you can prepare for farrowing.

Expected Due Dates:

From:
To:
Estimated due date:

The estimated due date is 114 days from the first breeding, which is the length of gestation in swine. The expected dates indicate the earliest and latest expected dates of delivery. Dates may vary in some instances.

Your Pig's Pregnancy Timeline:

Pig Pregnancy Calculator

Estimate your pig’s farrowing (birth) date easily by entering the mating or insemination date.
Sows typically have a gestation period of 114 days (often remembered as “3 months, 3 weeks, and 3 days”). This tool helps farmers and breeders monitor pregnancy milestones, optimize nutrition, and prepare for successful farrowing.

Important: Always consult with a veterinarian or livestock expert for confirmation, especially if you are managing multiple sows or suspect complications.

How to Use the Pig Pregnancy Calculator

Using the pig pregnancy calculator is fast and straightforward. You’ll only need one important detail: the date of mating or artificial insemination.

Steps to follow:

  1. Enter the breeding date:
    This is the date your sow was naturally bred or artificially inseminated.

    • If there were multiple matings/inseminations, use the first occurrence.

  2. Click “Calculate Farrowing Date”:
    The tool estimates the expected farrowing date, typically 114 days later.

  3. Track the pregnancy timeline:
    You’ll receive a breakdown of fetal development stages and when to prepare for farrowing.

Tip: For improved accuracy, pair the calculator’s results with veterinary checkups around day 28–35 (when pregnancy can be confirmed).

What Is the Average Pig Gestation Period?

On average, pigs remain pregnant for 114 days after mating. This may vary slightly due to litter size, sow health, and breed.

Breed Type Average Pregnancy Length
Commercial Breeds 114 days
Heritage Breeds 113–115 days
Miniature Pigs 112–114 days

Note: A sow carrying a larger litter may farrow a day or two early, while smaller litters may extend full term or slightly beyond.

Pig Pregnancy Timeline

Sow pregnancy follows a consistent biological progression, from fertilization to birth.

Stage Timeframe (Days) Description
Fertilization Day 1 Eggs are fertilized post-mating or AI.
Embryo Implantation Days 12–18 Embryos attach to the uterine wall.
Organ Formation Days 25–35 Major organs like the heart, brain, and liver form.
Fetal Growth Days 40–80 Rapid growth; fetuses develop skin, limbs, and more.
Final Growth Phase Days 80–113 Piglets gain weight and prepare for birth.
Farrowing Readiness Day 114 Nesting behavior; birth typically occurs around now.

Key Point: Ultrasound confirmation is possible as early as day 25 to confirm pregnancy and count fetuses.

Do Different Pig Breeds Have Different Gestation Lengths?

Generally, all pigs follow the 114-day gestation rule, but slight variations occur by breed or body size.

Breed Gestation Range
Yorkshire 113–114 days
Landrace 114 days
Duroc 114–115 days
Mini Pigs 112–114 days
Berkshire 113–115 days

Insight: Commercial breeds bred for efficiency usually stick close to the 114-day window, while heritage and miniature pigs may vary slightly.

What Are the Signs of Pregnancy in Pigs?

Unlike cats, pigs may not show obvious signs until later in the pregnancy. However, attentive observation can reveal key indicators:

Physical Signs:

  • Slight abdominal swelling after 3–4 weeks

  • Enlarged, firmer teats around day 50–60

  • Increased appetite

  • Vaginal discharge (clear/mucus) mid-pregnancy

  • Noticeable belly bulge in the last 2–3 weeks

Behavioral Signs:

  • Calmer demeanor or increased rest

  • Nesting behavior 2–3 days before farrowing

  • Isolation or irritability as due date nears

How to Prepare for Farrowing (Pig Birth)

Proper preparation ensures piglets are born safely and sows stay stress-free.

1. Prepare a clean farrowing area:

  • Use a dry, clean pen or farrowing crate.

  • Ensure bedding is soft (e.g., straw or wood shavings).

  • Disinfect area 1–2 weeks before expected farrowing.

2. Monitor your sow:

  • Watch for signs of nesting, restlessness, or reduced appetite 1–2 days prior.

  • Avoid overcrowding or loud environments near the due date.

3. Keep supplies ready:

  • Clean towels or cloths

  • Disinfectant and iodine for navels

  • Blunt scissors (for emergency umbilical care)

  • Heat lamp or pad for piglets (32–35°C recommended)

  • Fresh water and food for the sow

4. After farrowing:

  • Ensure piglets are breathing and nursing within 30 minutes

  • Monitor sow for placenta delivery and signs of distress

  • Count piglets and check for deformities or weakness

When to Call the Vet During Pig Pregnancy

Veterinary care is essential if complications arise or if you’re unsure about progression.

Stage Reason to Visit
Day 28–35 Ultrasound or palpation to confirm pregnancy
Final week Check for readiness and possible complications
During labor Prolonged labor, piglet stuck, or bleeding
Post-birth Retained placenta, infection, or piglet issues

Note: If no piglets are delivered within 2 hours of contractions, or your sow seems exhausted or distressed, contact a vet immediately.

Check Out Our Other Animal Pregnancy Calculators

Whether you manage a multi-species farm or are simply curious, explore our range of animal pregnancy calculators:

Each tool includes tailored timelines, signs to observe, and expert tips to make animal care easier and more informed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I feed regular pig feed during pregnancy?
A: It’s better to switch to a gestation or sow-specific feed to meet increased protein, calcium, and energy demands.

How many piglets does a sow usually have?
A: The average litter ranges from 8 to 12 piglets, though commercial breeds may exceed that.

Can a sow be pregnant and not show signs?
A: Yes. Some sows show minimal symptoms until the final weeks. Veterinary confirmation is crucial if unsure.

What if my sow doesn’t farrow by day 115?
A: If no signs of labor by day 115, contact your vet. Delays could indicate issues requiring medical intervention.

How can I ensure healthy piglets?
A: Provide a clean, warm environment, ensure immediate nursing, and monitor the sow closely during and after farrowing.

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