Pig Gestation Calculator
Pig pregnancy averages 114 days, about 3 months, 3 weeks and 3 days, in this calculator. Enter the breeding date to estimate farrowing.
Pig gestation at a glance
| Average used by this calculator | 114 days (about 3.7 months) |
|---|---|
| Window shown by this calculator | 112 to 118 days after breeding |
| Due date formula | Breeding date + 114 days |
| Birth is called | Farrowing |
| Mother | Sow (gilt for a first litter) |
| Young | Piglets |
The farrowing date is a planning estimate. Sows may farrow before or after day 114; Merck gives 115 to 116 days as a modern average from first service, while Penn State says most sows farrow between days 110 and 117.
Signs farrowing is near
Some farrowing signs appear only shortly before the first piglet.
- Abdomen swells
- Mammary glands swell
- Swaybacked appearance
- Vulva relaxes
- Restlessness
- Nest building
- Mammary glands become firm
- Frequent urination
- Frequent defecation
- Faster breathing
Pig pregnancy timeline
| Days 18 to 24 | A return to heat can be checked after service. |
|---|---|
| Days 26 to 30 | Real-time ultrasound pregnancy checks are commonly done. |
| After day 55 in gilts | External pregnancy signs may become visible. |
| After day 84 in sows | External pregnancy signs may become visible. |
Frequently asked questions
How long is a pig pregnant?
The pig calculator uses 114 days after breeding, the traditional 3 months, 3 weeks and 3 days estimate for farrowing.
How do I calculate a pig farrowing date?
Enter the breeding date and the pig calculator adds 114 days for an estimated farrowing date and shows its planning window.
What signs show farrowing is near?
A sow may become restless, build a nest, show swollen mammary glands and breathe more quickly before farrowing.
When should I call a veterinarian during farrowing?
Purdue says intervention is warranted if a sow labors for more than 30 to 45 minutes without a piglet. If no personnel experienced in delivering piglets is available, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Approximate Gestation Periods
- Missouri Extension: Care of Pigs From Farrowing to Weaning
- Purdue Extension: Understanding Agriculture, Swine
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Breeding Management of Pigs
- Penn State Extension: Raising Pigs, Farrowing
- Purdue Veterinary Medicine: What to Expect When Your Sow Is Expecting
Reviewed by Elliott Garber, DVM · Last reviewed